Los Angeles Financial News:
"In the latest update, the toy company listed under the stock code XLG has undergone a change in ownership. The new owner, HD, now holds all shares of the toy company except for the outstanding shares."
There's an old adage in China: "The fewer words in the news, the bigger the matter."
Though brief, this news captured considerable attention.
"I saw someone manipulating the toy stock a few days ago. I assumed it was an attempt to increase arbitrage, not realizing it was an acquisition."
"HD Security has gained prominence recently. Following the release of the 'Los Angeles Bank Robbery' documentary, its reputation has skyrocketed. In just over six months, it has become the largest security company in Los Angeles, boasting over 1,000 employees."
"Moreover, HD Films, owned by the same individual, is currently producing the hit film 'Red Dead Redemption.'"
"What's the plan for the toy company?"
"Who knows? Perhaps they're optimistic about the toy industry."
This news generated buzz, and in the subsequent days, the toy factory's stock began to climb, reaching $0.31.
Three days later:
The Los Angeles Financial News reported:
"The toy company under stock code XLG has officially rebranded as HD Toys. The new majority shareholder has restructured the management, infused capital, and is investing in new production equipment to prepare for new toy lines."
This announcement further boosted optimism about HD Toys' future. Many investors began purchasing shares, causing the stock price to surge to $0.48.
At this stage, Andy's funds remained steady.
Days passed, and the Los Angeles Times published an advertisement featuring three exquisite Barbie dolls. Some wore evening gowns, others veil skirts, and some cheongsams. Each doll was crafted with meticulous detail, showcasing grace and elegance.
"HD Toys introduces the 'Barbie' series. The first doll, 'Princess Ava,' is inspired by Miss Ava Gardner. The second, 'Princess Taylor,' is modeled after Elizabeth Taylor. The third, 'Chinese Princess,' reflects the beauty of a distinguished Chinese noblewoman."
"The collection includes several outfits and accessories for each doll, representing different seasons and professions such as stars, teachers, engineers, and doctors. New outfits and accessories will be introduced each season."
A headline below read:
"Every girl, whether three or seventy, deserves a Barbie doll."
"Barbie dolls will be available before Christmas."
The advertisement captivated many, sparking a desire for these beautiful toys.
Following this, toy stocks experienced another surge. Andy strategically raised the stock price, with shares climbing from $0.50 to over $1 in just one day.
Hardy observed the rising stock prices with satisfaction.
---
The phone in Hardy's office rang, and Taylor picked it up.
"Hardy I saw the Los Angeles Daily. Is 'Princess Taylor' modeled after me?" Taylor asked excitedly.
"Hehe, indeed. Do you like it?" Hardy replied.
"Absolutely! For Christmas, I would love to have 'Princess Taylor' and the entire set," Taylor said.
"Of course, I'll make sure you get it," Hardy assured.
"Awesome! Does that mean you'll visit me in New York for Christmas? Director Hitchcock said we only have one day off, and I can't return to Los Angeles," Taylor said, her voice tinged with disappointment.
"Yes, I'll come to New York," Hardy promised.
"Fantastic!" Elizabeth Taylor cheered on the other end of the line.
Though she was primarily excited about Hardy's visit, she appreciated the gesture of receiving the doll.
After ending the call with Taylor, Hardy's phone rang again, this time with Han Yezhen on the line.
"Is there something wrong, Yezhen?"
"I was wondering, who is the 'Chinese Princess'?" Han Yezhen asked softly.
"That's you," Hardy answered succinctly.
There was a moment of silence before Han Yezhen responded, "I really like it. I'll want a full set later." She quickly hung up, leaving Hardy with a smile.
The phone rang a third time. As anticipated, it was Ava Gardner.
"Princess Ava sounds wonderful. I never imagined that a country girl like me could become a princess. Thank you, Hardy," Ava said with genuine delight.
---
As Andy continued to reorganize the toy factory, he shifted focus to magazines and health products, manipulating their stocks.
In the fluctuating stock market, Andy acquired 74% of the shares in a magazine and 61% of the shares in a health products company. He began negotiations for acquisitions.
The magazine owner was willing to sell but demanded a high price. Andy, however, leveraged the magazine's financial troubles, pointing out its imminent delisting. The owner reluctantly agreed to sell, with the condition that current employees' wages remain unchanged for six months.
The health products company posed a challenge. Several shareholders, aware of Andy's previous acquisitions and their potential for profit, inflated the price. Despite this, the stock price rose to $0.29, just above Andy's purchase price.
Andy decided to shift strategies. Instead of pursuing the acquisition further, he planned to operate the company and make a profit through strategic market moves.
Andy prepared for the next steps while Hardy met with Hefner, the editor-in-chief of the magazine.
"Hello, Hefner. I'm Jon Hardy," Hardy greeted, shaking hands.
Hefner, in his forties, responded, "Hello, Mr. Hardy. I assume you have a vision for the magazine?"
"I do," Hardy said. "I want to create a special men's magazine called 'Playboy,' featuring a rabbit with a bow tie as the logo. The cover will showcase the most beautiful and sensual women. We aim to push the boundaries of American conservatism, offering both aesthetic appeal and intellectual content."
Hefner's eyes widened. Hardy's vision for the magazine aligned perfectly with his own aspirations.
Hefner hesitated but mentioned, "I have a suggestion for the first issue's cover. Heidi Rama would be perfect. She's stunning and previously appeared on a highly coveted photo album."
Hardy remembered Heidi Rama, an actress and scientist known for her future invention, "wireless frequency hopping technology." Though her scientific achievements were yet to be recognized, Hardy saw potential in her.
"Let's proceed with Heidi Rama for the cover. Her inclusion will set the magazine apart and offer a unique appeal," Hardy concluded.
With a clear direction for the magazine, Hardy anticipated a new chapter in both the magazine's and the health products company's journeys.