Chapter 322: Fraud

Hardy, brimming with confidence from his collaboration with the seven consortiums, addressed the group: "We're dealing with various consortiums, so there might be overlaps in our investments. It's crucial that we work together and avoid any conflicts."

"If multiple companies are interested in a project, we should negotiate privately, share the investment, or exchange resources. Scrambling for projects won't benefit anyone," Hardy cautioned.

David Rockefeller agreed, "Indeed, when we go to Japan, we must present a united front."

The others nodded in agreement. As seasoned investors, they understood that internal conflicts would only play into the hands of their competitors.

Hardy continued, "Once we finalize our negotiations, everyone should arrange their delegation representatives. I'll notify you all when it's time to head to Japan together."

He raised his glass, "Here's to our success and fruitful investments!"

The group cheered and clinked glasses before departing. After their departure, Hardy spent some time chatting with David Rockefeller before heading back to Los Angeles.

Upon returning, Hardy contacted Giannini to update him on the progress. Giannini expressed admiration for Hardy's ability to assemble seven consortia.

"I'll organize a meeting with other companies to gauge interest in investing in Japan," Giannini said.

"Great. I'll await your update," Hardy replied.

---

There was no immediate rush for Hardy to travel to Japan. The country's economic situation was expected to worsen until June next year, providing ample time for preparation. The worse the situation in Japan became, the more they would seek foreign investment, making it easier to acquire assets.

This period allowed families to prepare and wait for detailed information from Japan. Once received and distributed, it would help in formulating targeted strategies.

There were still some tasks Hardy needed to complete. He called Henry.

"Henry, open the suitcase on the coffee table," Hardy instructed.

Henry looked puzzled but complied. Inside the suitcase were stacks of bills and certificates of deposit. Henry examined them. "Bank drafts and certificates of deposit. What's the purpose?"

"These are funds from the East. The total amounts to over $40 million. I need you to assemble a team to exchange these funds," Hardy explained.

"Also, utilize the Hongmen organization. They have global reach and are well-integrated locally. Allocate them a tenth of the funds. Your intelligence company should receive a similar share."

Henry was thrilled. "One-tenth means $4 million. Although it's for the company, it will help in further development, recruit more personnel, and boost morale."

"I expect excellent results," Hardy said.

"There's one more thing. How's the situation with the financial fraudster?" Hardy inquired.

Henry updated him. "We've identified several suitable candidates, and some have already started their operations."

---

Kross, 38, was tall and attractive. Having worked in banking, he was familiar with financial operations but dissatisfied with his salary. He started an investment company, but initial investments were small due to lack of reputation. Unable to pay his employees or cover expenses, Kross sold his house and began advertising himself as an investment genius.

He falsely claimed a 58% return on investments and promised at least a 25% annual return. This attracted many investors, growing his fund to over $2 million. Kross never invested in hot stocks as he claimed; instead, he pocketed most of the money while paying out only part of it as interest.

Kross's operations were a classic Ponzi scheme, luring more investors with high returns and using new funds to pay previous investors. Although the scheme was still running, Henry's team had targeted him.

Kross was arrested one night. Despite his financial acumen, he was easily coerced into revealing his scheme. Henry's team posed as members of the fictional National Financial Fraud Investigation Commission (FFN), threatening Kross with a lengthy prison sentence.

Terrified, Kross agreed to cooperate, planning to defraud investors in Japan. He was instructed to set up a fund investment company there, promising a 25% return by investing in the U.S. stock market. This rate was highly attractive given Japan's low bank interest rates and severe inflation.

Kross's new company quickly drew interest, with Japanese investors eager to find lucrative opportunities. Despite some skepticism, Kross's reputation as a financial genius helped him secure investments.

Henry's plan was to use Kross as a pawn to attract and defraud investors. While Kross was in Japan, he opened a fund investment company, and the money he transferred to the U.S. was used for further operations.

Henry had also recruited other fraudsters with various backgrounds, including those involved in pyramid schemes and counterfeit operations. 

"We must ensure they are well-managed and prevent any possibility of losing control. It's crucial they don't handle the funds directly. If anyone tries to deviate, we eliminate them and erase all traces," Hardy instructed firmly.

Henry nodded in understanding. "I'll make sure it's done."