**Chapter 49: Bold Futures and Calculated Risks**

Jiang Han remained impassive. "Just proceed."

Seeing his resolute demeanor, Su Qingyi had no choice but to complete the formalities at the counter.

Jiang Han activated his system, his eyes fixed on the sprawling futures market interface before him. The screen flickered with dense, rapidly scrolling data. Simultaneously, the system in his mind projected real-time returns on investment:

- *9:21 AM, March 1: Japonica rice price surges 6.2%. By 11:00 AM, it plummets 6.1%...*

- *9:20 AM, March 1: Rapeseed oil price drops 4.4%. By 3:20 PM, it declines another 1.1%...*

- *10:27 AM, March 1: Iron ore price climbs 1.3%. By 4:00 PM, it crashes 4.1%...*

After skimming the data, Jiang Han noted japonica rice's volatility. A well-timed long position before the morning closing bell could yield significant gains.

Just then, Zhang Chongan approached. "Brother, why didn't you tell me you were back? That's cold."

Jiang Han patted his shoulder, grinning. "I've been busy setting up a small company in Shanghai. Didn't have time to reach out."

"Of course—the young master can start a company on a whim. Meanwhile, I'd need a lifetime to earn 60 million. You did it in days. Unfair."

Jiang Han raised an eyebrow. "If you ever tire of this job, come work for me. Double your current salary. Deal?"

Zhang Chongan chuckled bitterly. *Is this what it means to be wealthy and reckless?*

"By the way," Zhang added, "the news mentioned a company offering 4,000 a month for entry-level roles. They called the owner insane."

"That insane owner is me."

Zhang Chongan's eyes widened. He feigned grabbing Jiang Han's leg. "Boss! Your pay beats mine! Take me with you!"

Su Qingyi returned with paperwork. "Done. Tenfold leverage activated."

Zhang Chongan scanned the documents, frowning. "Jiang Han, you just struck gold in stocks. Why gamble on futures now?"

"Futures offer higher leverage and flexibility."

Zhang narrowed his eyes. "Leverage magnifies gains *and* losses. One misstep, and you're ruined!"

Jiang Han shrugged. "Aren't there daily price limits?"

"Varies by commodity. Soybean meal caps at 5%, steel at 7%. Even small swings under leverage can wipe you out."

Curious, Zhang pressed, "Do you have insider intel on futures?"

"Yes. Xiao Su, prioritize japonica rice."

As the market opened, Jiang Han issued the order.

Zhang Chongan protested, "Crude oil and rebar are hot right now. Try those! Japonica rice is too volatile!"

Su Qingyi tilted her head. "Manager Zhang, why the pessimism?"

A crowd gathered as Zhang explained, "Last quarter, southern rice drove japonica prices from 1,700 to 1,900 per ton. Post-Spring Festival, southern floods spiked prices again. But China's new price controls will likely crash it soon."

An elderly man with a thermos nodded. "I've tracked japonica rice for months. Government policies will suppress prices."

A woman with wavy hair added, "Exactly. I shorted it yesterday."

Zhang Chongan turned to Jiang Han. "Give me one solid reason to back your move. Tenfold leverage isn't a joke!"

Jiang Han feigned financial savvy. "Disasters hit major grain regions last week. Supply shortages will drive prices up." He signaled Su Qingyi to proceed.

Zhang Chongan grimaced. "With 50.4 million capital and 10x leverage, a 1% drop costs you millions!"

Jiang Han smirked, unperturbed. "Relax, old friend."

"Ugh! The emperor isn't worried, but the eunuch panics!" Zhang muttered, throwing his hands up.