Chapter 21: Uncle Bao Challenges You, How About It?

On September 9th, the fragrance of the harbor city was still embraced by a warm and gentle breeze, marking the perfect season for swimming in the crystal-clear waves.

Deep Water Bay Villa District, a secluded paradise, boasts an untouched, pristine white sandy beach. This precious stretch of sea, like a secret realm, remains closed to the public and is exclusively reserved as a private sanctuary for the distinguished residents of the villa community.

Here, privilege is not merely a symbol of status but an entitlement to savor the tranquility and beauty bestowed by nature. Residents can leisurely stroll along the soft sands at dawn or dusk or dive into the clear waters to revel in the refreshing coolness and joy of the sea. Such a lifestyle is undoubtedly a unique happiness and comfort reserved for the privileged elite.

At this moment, Lin Haoran had just leisurely emerged from the azure sea, still carrying the salty freshness and coolness of the ocean. He casually donned his sunglasses and reclined comfortably on a beach chair, letting the sea breeze gently caress him with a soothing coolness, a satisfied and relaxed smile gracing his face.

Beside him, a young Filipina domestic helper of the Lin family, graceful and gentle, handed him an ice-cold cola. He accepted the drink, lightly twisted off the cap, and with the soft hiss of escaping carbonation, a rush of crisp bubbles and icy refreshment flooded his mouth, bringing an indescribable sense of relief and pleasure, as if sweeping away the heat of summer entirely.

Nearby, Li Weiguo and Li Weidong were clearly captivated by this unprecedented experience of luxury. Perhaps they had never imagined they would have the chance to stand on such a private and beautiful beach, enjoying moments of comfort that only the privileged could possess.

With no urgent work demands at hand, Lin Haoran chose to remain leisurely within the Deep Water Bay Villa District, savoring this rare peace and ease. As for Huafeng Cement Factory, he temporarily set it aside, trusting the existing management team to maintain stability without his constant involvement.

Lin Yi and the other three, following their father's arrangements, had already been transferred out of Huafeng Cement Factory. Lin Haoran paid little attention to their subsequent whereabouts; they were merely turncoats loyal to Lin Haoning, not worth his further consideration.

That morning, Lin Haoran had already called Yang Changdao from Yumin Financial Company. The feedback was that the expedited approval was underway, and barring any mishaps, the funds would arrive by tomorrow. Upon hearing this, Lin Haoran was naturally at ease.

Once the 50 million Hong Kong dollars were received, he would be ready to make his move. Even Li Jiacheng would be no match for him!

As Lin Haoran closed his eyes, enjoying the sea breeze, an elderly man appeared beside him without his noticing. "Young man, whose child are you? You look somewhat familiar," came a cheerful and friendly greeting.

Lin Haoran slowly opened his eyes, momentarily taken aback by the sight before him. Standing smiling beside him was a plainly dressed elderly gentleman in beach shorts whose familiar face instantly sparked recognition—it was none other than the renowned shipping magnate, Bao Yugang.

Behind Bao stood a stern-faced bodyguard wearing sunglasses, adding an air of distinction to this business titan.

"Hello, Uncle Bao, I am Lin Wan'an’s youngest son, Lin Haoran," Lin Haoran stood up to greet him. He knew Bao Yugang was not only a legendary figure in the business world but also a respected elder, so he spoke with utmost humility and courtesy.

Upon hearing this, Bao Yugang’s face blossomed into a warm smile as he replied kindly, "Oh, so you’re from the Lin family; no wonder you looked so familiar."

Although the Deep Water Bay Villa District had few residents, each household was either wealthy or noble. While neighbors rarely mingled, they were familiar faces nonetheless.

Lin Wan'an, as the head of the Wan'an Group, might not match the stature of Bao Yugang, but he was far from unknown, so Bao was quite familiar with him.

The Lin family had prospered early, having settled in the Deep Water Bay Villa District over a decade ago.

Bao Yugang then reclined on a nearby beach chair, enjoying the sea breeze as he struck up a conversation with Lin Haoran. Lin hadn’t expected to encounter such a famous business magnate while simply swimming on the beach.

"Haoran, judging by your demeanor, you must still be pursuing your studies?" Bao asked with a smile.

"Uncle Bao, you flatter me. Actually, I just graduated from the London Business School and returned to the harbor city two months ago," Lin Haoran replied with a smile, shaking his head modestly.

"Oh? A top graduate of London Business School? Then let me test you a bit, shall I?" Bao said, intrigued.

"Please, Uncle Bao, go ahead," Lin Haoran responded confidently.

"You must know about my becoming a major shareholder of Wharf Holdings, right? Why do you think I acquired shares in Wharf, a long-established British enterprise?" Bao’s interest deepened.

"Uncle Bao started in shipping and became the famed ‘World Ship King.’ The reason you’d venture into land-based business, targeting a venerable British company like Wharf, I’d guess is because you foresee a downturn in the shipping industry’s future and are shifting your investment strategy from sea to land," Lin Haoran answered succinctly.

"Why are you pessimistic about the shipping industry's future?" Bao asked, growing even more intrigued.

"Coming from a business family, I have been deeply fascinated by the commercial world since childhood. This passion naturally led me to study market trends and industry shifts closely.

I have analyzed the global economic situation thoroughly. In recent years, the world economy has lingered under the shadow of recession or sluggish recovery, directly suppressing international trade and weakening demand for shipping services.

Do you recall the 1973 global oil crisis? Now, the Persian region is shaken by the Islamic Revolution. Since August, nationwide strikes and protests have nearly paralyzed the country. As a key oil exporter, if the internal conflict escalates into civil war, it could trigger an oil export disruption, planting the seeds for a second oil crisis.

If such a crisis recurs, oil prices will soar, exerting great pressure on the global economy and plunging it into deeper recession. This would indirectly raise shipping operating costs and further squeeze profit margins, making operations even more difficult.

Moreover, recalling the golden era of the 1960s, the shipping industry saw massive capital blindly pouring in, causing severe overcapacity in shipbuilding. Today, with weak market demand, these excess capacities remain underutilized, causing a serious supply-demand imbalance.

This imbalance intensifies fierce competition in the freight market. Shipping companies are forced to slash prices to capture market share, worsening an already harsh business environment.

Considering all these factors, I cautiously predict the global shipping industry is about to enter a prolonged depression," Lin Haoran said calmly but insightfully.

"Haoran, your insights are unique and profound. I never expected someone so young to possess such broad vision and keen perception. Lin Wan'an has truly raised a remarkable son. Your future is boundless!" Bao exclaimed, eyes shining with admiration.

Just then, an assistant hurried over, whispering into Bao’s ear, “Mr. Bao, there’s an urgent call for you at home. Please answer it as soon as possible.”

Bao’s face showed reluctance as he smiled wryly at Lin Haoran. “Ah, I wanted to steal a rare moment of leisure to enjoy this sea breeze, but it seems I can’t find peace. Haoran, I must leave now. When you have time, come visit me at my home; we’ll have a good chat.”

Though their conversation was brief, Lin Haoran’s sharp insight and composed manner had left a deep impression on Bao.

“Take care, Uncle Bao,” Lin Haoran stood to see him off.

“Master, who was that old gentleman? He seemed quite distinguished,” Li Weiguo asked after Bao had walked away.

“Oh, he’s the famed World Ship King,” Lin Haoran replied with a smile.