Chapter 340: A House for a Woman

After Japan's surrender, the United States imposed numerous controls on the country, including strict limitations on food supplies. Japan, with its small land area and large population, has historically struggled with food shortages. The situation worsened after Japan's military campaigns plundered vast amounts of resources from China and Southeast Asia, leaving the country in a dire state.

In the aftermath of Japan's defeat, the U.S. implemented a food aid program, but it was insufficient to meet Japan's needs. The country faced severe food shortages due to limited domestic production and a rapidly growing population, leading to widespread starvation.

Hardy was aware of the situation. While considering the 570 million aid fund he had brought, he knew that this money would not be used for purchasing food for Japan. Instead, Hardy believed in addressing the root causes of Japan's economic problems. 

"Prime Minister Yoshida, solving problems effectively requires tackling them at their root," Hardy said. "What do you think?"

"Indeed," Yoshida responded, not entirely understanding Hardy's implication but agreeing with the sentiment.

"Japan's issues are fundamentally economic. Restoring business operations and creating jobs will naturally alleviate social strain. Mere relief efforts will not solve the problem and may even foster dependency," Hardy explained. 

"By revitalizing Japanese companies, they can produce goods for the U.S. market. This will enable Japan to eventually import more food," he added.

Yoshida smiled, appreciating Hardy's approach.

The cocktail party concluded, and the delegation returned to the Imperial Hotel to prepare for the next day's important task: the acquisition of Japanese companies.

The following morning, numerous Japanese entrepreneurs visited the Imperial Hotel, presenting their business reports to representatives from the seven major American consortiums. Companies in textiles approached the Texas consortium, while steel companies sought out Morgan, Rockefeller, or Mellon consortiums. Petrochemical firms targeted Rockefeller, known for its dominance in the oil industry.

Electrical appliance companies such as Toshiba, Hitachi, Panasonic, and Sharp also approached the Hardy Group, hoping for cooperation. Hardy himself did not get involved directly; instead, the Vice President of the Hardy Group managed these interactions.

Under Hardy's instructions, the consortiums were to collectively acquire shares of these companies, ensuring no more than 40% remained in Japanese hands. Those who refused to cooperate would face support for their competitors, potentially leading to their downfall.

The seven consortia had reached an agreement to adopt a cross-shareholding model for their acquisitions, concealing their true control behind a web of Cayman Islands companies. This strategy aimed to monopolize Japan's economy while preventing Japanese companies from negotiating with individual consortiums to inflate their value.

Hardy was invited by the Japanese Minister of Foreign Affairs to visit a traditional Japanese house, designed to impress him. The house, built in 1884 and featuring both Eastern and Western styles, was meant to impress Hardy, as General MacArthur had resided there.

Inside, Hardy was introduced to a young woman, Miss Sasaki Fumiko, a 17-year-old student and potential assistant and interpreter. The Minister of Foreign Affairs hoped that the presentation of the house and the young woman would endear Hardy to Japan.

However, Hardy declined the offer. "I prefer Western-style accommodations. The Hardy Group has already purchased a Western-style villa for me," he said, expressing his disinterest in the house and the young woman.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs was taken aback by Hardy's response. The plan to use the house and the woman as a bribe had backfired. Hardy's indifference and refusal demonstrated his determination not to be swayed by such tactics.

Sasaki Fumiko, disheartened by Hardy's lack of interest, felt rejected. Despite her efforts to impress Hardy, she was left disappointed.

Later, Duncan reported to Hardy about the food situation in Japan. There were several black markets in Tokyo where food prices were inflated, controlled by various gangs. A Wisconsin-based food trading company, owned by MacArthur's cousin, was behind these markets, secretly exporting food to Japan and bypassing official state channels.

A smile crept across Hardy's face. "Use secret channels to inform Henry about this. Have him investigate thoroughly, including the smuggling channels and tax evasion."

Duncan acknowledged the task and left.

As Hardy enjoyed a cigar, he reflected on the situation with a sense of amusement. The attempt to manipulate him with a house and a woman had failed. He looked forward to seeing how MacArthur would respond to the unfolding events, finding the situation quite entertaining.