Sharpening the Edge

James had already secured financial stability and real-world experience, but he knew that simply preparing for the future wasn't enough — he had to actively shape it. With his knowledge of future market trends, he saw an opportunity in the rapidly developing technology sector. Microsoft and Oracle, two companies poised to change the world, would go public in 1986. If he could secure shares before their IPOs, he would gain a massive financial advantage.

To do this, he hired a professional asset manager to inquire about early investment opportunities. His instructions were clear: investigate private share availability, connect with early investors, and determine if there were any legal ways to acquire a stake before the companies went public. He couldn't afford to make mistakes — these investments would be pivotal in securing long-term wealth.

While his asset manager worked on his behalf, James continued his self-improvement in another critical area — his personal skills. The entertainment industry wasn't just about money; it was about social status, influence, and personal connections. To seamlessly integrate into Hollywood's elite circles, he needed to refine himself beyond just business and film.

He started learning multiple languages, knowing that fluency in French, Spanish, and Japanese could open doors to international opportunities. He also took up piano and guitar, not just as hobbies, but as tools to make himself more charismatic in social settings. In Hollywood, being talented in multiple areas wasn't just impressive — it was expected.

Each day, James honed his skills, making himself not just an investor or a filmmaker, but a well-rounded individual who could stand at the top of the industry. He wasn't just preparing to succeed — he was preparing to dominate.

By December 24 of 1980, James and his mother took time to relax and celebrate Christmas in San Francisco with his grandparents. The warmth of family, the holiday spirit, and the temporary break from business allowed them to enjoy a rare moment of peace. For James, it was a necessary reset before his next major financial move.

Once the new year arrived, James wasted no time. He hired a lawyer and a broker, ensuring everything was done professionally and with discretion. The lawyer's first task was to draft a strict Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) for the broker, preventing any leaks about James's financial moves. James met with both professionals in his mother's home office, making sure they understood his expectations.

"You're asking for a lot of secrecy for someone your age," the lawyer, Mr. Donovan, remarked as he reviewed the contract. He was a seasoned attorney, skeptical but professional.

"I'm asking for professionalism," James countered smoothly. "A trade like this could raise a lot of questions. The NDA ensures we avoid unnecessary speculation."

The broker, Mr. Holloway, nodded, impressed by James's confidence. "A short position of this size is rare, especially at this leverage. Are you sure about this?"

"Completely." James leaned forward. "Gold peaked in 1980, and the economic climate won't sustain these prices. By 1982, gold will drop significantly. We're taking advantage of the inevitable."

Both men exchanged glances before Mr. Donovan finalized the paperwork. "I'll file the NDA immediately. Your broker will handle the trade, and everything remains confidential."

James shook their hands, sealing the deal.

In January 1981, James directed $3 million into a highly leveraged position against gold, betting at 300:1 that its price — currently at $600 per ounce — would decline. His research and future knowledge gave him absolute confidence in his bet. Gold had skyrocketed in the late 1970s, but he knew the trend wouldn't hold.

For now, the money was in play. The results would come later, but James had made his move.