Bab 115: Chapter 115: Heidi Rama, the Mother of Wi-Fi
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.
Bab 116: Chapter 116: Total Revenue of $1.3 Million
---
Hardy's Office
"Hefner, for the cover of the first issue, let's tentatively go with Miss Heidi Lamarr. You can contact her to see if she's willing to appear in the photos. If she agrees, we'll get a set of perfect shots."
"Also, she won't be enough on her own. We need a lot of beautiful women. You can reach out to Edward, the general manager of HD Pictures; he'll make the arrangements."
HD Pictures had merged with Siegel's Noah Films, and it had also acquired an adult film company linked to the Spanish Gang. This adult film company had more than a dozen signed actresses who had shot adult films and risqué photos.
If these actresses could feature in the magazine, it would also serve as a form of publicity, potentially boosting their fame and value.
"This is about resource integration—multiplied power," Hardy explained.
"Understood. I'll get in touch with General Manager Edward and Miss Heidi. But boss, the company has been operating at a loss before, and the magazine hasn't even launched yet. Can you still support it?" Hefner asked with concern.
"I've arranged for Andy to secure a $100,000 loan from the bank on behalf of the magazine. This should cover the salary and production costs for the first issue," Hardy said.
Hefner was relieved and excited. "Thank you, boss. I'll get to work on this right away."
---
Los Angeles Stock Exchange Center
Hardy visited the stock exchange for the second time, this time to observe Andy's manipulation of stock prices.
"Boss, I've had the newspaper publish an announcement confirming that HD is preparing to acquire Smith Health Products. We should see some interesting movements when the market opens," Andy said with a grin.
When the market opened, the news created a buzz. Investors, recalling the HD boss's previous successes with toy factory stocks, flocked to buy shares of Smith Health Products. The stock price surged from $0.21 to $0.36.
Andy then began buying up shares, causing the stock price to rise further. By the end of the first trading day, Smith's stock had climbed to $0.56.
The next day, the stock price continued to rise with the announcement of HD's interest in acquiring Smith. It hit $0.84, driven up by retail investors and the general excitement.
By the fourth day, news of a second offer from HD had driven the stock price to $1.27. Despite some selling pressure causing fluctuations, the stock remained strong.
On Friday, the stock price soared to $1.40, driven by a mix of Andy's operations and investor enthusiasm. As the market approached closing time, the stock was actively traded, with many orders executed.
Andy reported back to Hardy. "We've sold all our shares in Smith , with an average selling price of $1.24. Our total revenue from this transaction is over $1.3 million."
"Excellent work," Hardy said, opening a bottle of red wine to celebrate the profitable transaction.
"Andy, should we short the health care stocks now?" Hardy asked.
"I've arranged for someone to handle that. We'll announce that due to the high stock price, we've decided to terminate the acquisition. Smith's stock price should drop sharply, allowing us to profit further," Andy explained.
Hardy nodded with satisfaction. "When the announcement is made, let's also state that HD remains optimistic about the health care industry and is seeking partnerships with capable companies."
"I'll handle it," Andy confirmed.
Just then, Hardy's phone rang. It was Hefner from Playboy Magazine.
"Boss, I've contacted Miss Heidi Lamarr. She wants to meet with you in person to discuss the magazine's cover," Hefner said.
"No problem. Provide me with her contact details, and I'll call her directly," Hardy responded.
Hardy dialed Heidi Lamarr's number. The call was quickly answered.
"Hello, Mr. Hardy. This is Heidi Lamarr."
"I'm Jon Hardy. I've heard a lot about you. Meyer spoke highly of you, and it's a pity that you left MGM," Hardy said.
Heidi Lamarr, a former MGM contract actress, had recently started her own studio after her contract expired.
"Mr. Hardy, I'm familiar with your work, particularly 'Red Dead Redemption.' It's an impressive film. I've also heard about your recent collaborations with MGM. I'd love to meet and discuss potential opportunities," Heidi said.
Hardy was flattered. "I'd be delighted to meet you. Where would you like to meet?"
"How about my studio in Hollywood? It's nearby," Heidi suggested.
"Sounds perfect. I'll see you there," Hardy agreed.
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