Chapter 153: Raising Three Hundred Million!

"Lord Bao, congratulations on becoming the world's number one ship king! This has greatly boosted the morale of our Chinese community!" Xia Yu raised his glass and toasted to Bao Yugang.

"Haha, too much praise. This ship king title and all that are just American nonsense; they shouldn't be taken seriously!" Bao Yugang waved his hand and laughed heartily.

He clinked glasses with Xia Yu, took a sip of his drink, and looked at Xia Yu with a touch of emotion. "You, Xia Yu, are truly impressive. From scratch, you've built such a huge enterprise in a short time. You'll surpass this old man soon."

"Haha, Lord, you flatter me. It's all just luck. Whether I can surpass you in this lifetime is still unknown!" Xia Yu quickly replied with modesty. It's always better to be humble when praised.

Although it was their first interaction, Xia Yu had genuine admiration and respect for Bao Yugang. In his previous life, Bao Yugang's deeds were widely known online, and Xia Yu had a heartfelt admiration for him. Seeing him in person now, his appreciation only grew.

Bao Yugang, originally from Buning in Jiangsu-Zhejiang Province, was the 29th direct descendant of Bao Zheng, the well-known Chinese maritime tycoon. In early 1949, he came to Hong Kong, co-invested in Hua Ren Xing, and engaged in import trade, shipping essential goods like steel, cotton, and medicine to the mainland. In 1955, he established Universal Limited to manage coal transport between India and island nations. The next year, after Egypt nationalized the Suez Canal and freight rates surged, he bought new ships and expanded his business. He gradually made his mark in the shipping industry through partnerships with Japanese shipbuilders, financial institutions, and HSBC. During the 1967 Middle East oil crisis, he expanded his fleet, and in 1970, rebranded his company as Universal Shipping Group Limited. In 1972, he established Universal International Financial Limited and served as Chairman of the Board.

By this year, his maritime empire had reached its peak, securing the top spot among the world's top ten shipping magnates. Later, American magazines Fortune and Newsweek dubbed him "The Ruler of the Seas" and "The King of the Sea."

Moreover, he was the first Chinese board member at HSBC.

In his past life, he made headlines by acquiring Kowloon Warehouse, raising 2.1 billion in three days, and quickly increased his shareholding to 49% within two hours, completing the acquisition. This move shocked Hong Kong, greatly boosted Chinese morale, and quelled the arrogance of British financial groups. Bao Yugang's ability to mobilize 2.1 billion was legendary.

He also went on to acquire one of the four major British trading companies, C.P. Group!

In addition to his business achievements, his honors were many. Xia Yu addressed him as Lord Bao because in 1976, he was knighted by the Queen of England.

What impressed Xia Yu most was Bao Yugang's patriotic spirit. He supported national construction and made generous donations, including the establishment of Ningbo University. His other charitable acts included building hotels, libraries, and schools in the capital, among others.

Unfortunately, compared to people like Li Chao Ren and Li Zhao Ji, Bao Yugang did not live a long life, passing away in 1991.

Moreover, since Bao Yugang had no sons, he had to hand over his business empire to his son-in-law, Wu Guangzheng. One of Hong Kong's top ten financial groups ended up with the Wu surname, which was somewhat of a regret to outsiders.

However, Xia Yu believed Bao Yugang did not make a mistake. His son-in-law Wu Guangzheng was indeed a capable person and a devoted husband, which was the best outcome for the Bao family.

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"Xia Yu, your reputation as the stock god precedes you. I'd like to share in your good fortune. I plan to invest in ten shares. Is that possible?" Bao Yugang asked with a smile, his tone pleasant and making Xia Yu feel very comfortable.

"Thank you for your support, Lord. I will not disappoint you!" Xia Yu said with a serious expression.

Although Bao Yugang didn't specify which fund he was referring to, Xia Yu knew it was the Huijin No. 1 Fund, which was one million Hong Kong dollars per share. Ten shares amounted to ten million Hong Kong dollars. For someone with a fortune of over two billion Hong Kong dollars like Bao Yugang, this was not a large sum.

Xia Yu believed that a tycoon at the top of Hong Kong's financial ladder, with access to significant opportunities, would make large profits. Yet, investing ten million Hong Kong dollars now was more about supporting Xia Yu. This generous gesture greatly increased Xia Yu's admiration for him.

Bao Yugang, sensing Xia Yu's attitude, was in high spirits and laughed heartily. "I should be the one thanking you. Having the stock god help me make money is my honor."

Hearing Bao Yugang's words, Xia Yu smiled faintly, refraining from further debate. Instead, he clasped his fists together in gratitude.

"Xia Yu, you continue with your duties. There are still many guests to attend to. Don't worry about me. Next time, come over to my place, and I'll have the opportunity to learn from you."

With that, Xia Yu moved on to greet other prominent figures.

As the host, Xia Yu had to greet each prominent guest out of courtesy. Many had greater influence and status than him. Since this was their first meeting, Xia Yu needed to show proper etiquette. Moreover, he had planned to use this event to expand his network of connections.

Unfortunately, no British representatives attended the event, but Xia Yu had expected this, given that Nine Pinnacles Securities had recently displeased the British. No British would be willing to attend the event.

At least, Xia Yu had shown his courtesy, and no one would be offended.

As Xia Yu mingled with other big shots, Jin Jiajun and Ai Le Wen were busily attending to guests.

Every time a person finished registering, another would quickly take their place. The excitement and activity were palpable among the staff.

Soon, an employee reported to Xia Yu that the Huijin No. 1 Fund's hundred shares had been fully subscribed. Even the Huizhong No. 1 Fund had less than ten million Hong Kong dollars remaining. With many still wanting to invest, Jin Jiajun quickly asked Xia Yu how to proceed.

Without hesitation, Xia Yu instructed the employee to tell Jin Jiajun that the quota limit for the Huijin No. 1 Fund was lifted, while the quota for the Huizhong No. 1 Fund remained unchanged.

Following the directive, Jin Jiajun's area was once again filled with eager investors.

When the event ended, the Huizhong No. 1 Fund had raised fifty million Hong Kong dollars, completing a total of one hundred million Hong Kong dollars. The Huijin No. 1 Fund's total raised amount reached two hundred million Hong Kong dollars. Originally, it was set to reach 193 million Hong Kong dollars, but the last real estate tycoon, Wang Dehui, topped it up by seven million, bringing the total to exactly two hundred million.

The fundraising event was a resounding success!

Starting the next day, the subscribing investors would deposit their funds into the dedicated account set up by Nine Pinnacles Securities. If the funds were not deposited within three days, the subscription would be considered forfeited.

Xia Yu estimated that no one would forfeit their subscriptions. Displeasing Xia Yu with such actions was not something anyone would risk.

The next day, Nine Pinnacles Securities announced the fundraising results for both funds, which caused a sensation and further enhanced Nine Pinnacles Securities' reputation.

Many rival securities companies were envious and jealous, given the substantial total of three hundred million Hong Kong dollars now in Nine Pinnacles Securities' hands. This would not only bring profits but also significantly boost the company's strength.

With the addition of the new capital, Nine Pinnacles Securities could now be considered one of the major securities firms in Hong Kong!

Even Liu Tianci called immediately to congratulate Xia Yu.

Besides the fundraising results, the previous night's event was also covered by the Nine Pinnacles Daily. The presence of many top tycoons elevated the event to the highest level in Hong Kong, which naturally sparked public discussion.

Xia Yu's status had risen considerably.

The following day, upon arriving at Nine Pinnacles Media and Nine Pinnacles Securities, Xia Yu noticed a change in the employees' attitudes—they had become more respectful and formal.

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The funds were fully deposited the next day, and the investors collected their share certificates.

With the funds secured, both funds were officially launched!