From Inheriting a Small Factory to Becoming a Global Financial Tycoon

Chapter 25 A Pleasant Cooperation

Following Manager Zhang, Lin Haoran quickly arrived at the third floor, at the Chairman's office of Hang Seng Bank. As he stepped into the room, his gaze immediately fell on Chairman Ho Sin Hang, who sat solemnly behind his desk yet carried a benevolent aura.

"Uncle Ho, good day! I apologize for the sudden visit and any disturbance it may cause," Lin Haoran greeted respectfully, taking the stance of a junior. This Uncle Ho was not only a titan in the industry but also an old friend of his father, Lin Wanan. Whenever Lin Haoran had accompanied his father here in the past, he had always addressed him as "Uncle Ho," maintaining a friendly relationship.

At seventy-nine years old, Ho Sin Hang's face bore the deep marks of time, and his head of silver hair shone brightly under the light. Yet Lin Haoran clearly understood that this seemingly frail elder possessed extraordinary vitality and wisdom. In his previous life's knowledge, Ho Sin Hang would continue to lead Hang Seng Bank until the age of ninety-seven, only then peacefully passing away.

"Little Lin, you've come specially to see me; is there something you need my help with?" Ho Sin Hang asked with a warm smile as Lin Haoran sat down, his curiosity piqued. He had just finished a busy meeting and was about to rest when Manager Zhang hurriedly came to report that Lin Haoran was requesting a meeting. At first, he thought he had misheard — after all, Lin Haoran was just newly graduated — but after confirmation, his doubts turned into intrigue and expectation.

"Uncle Ho, I wish to discuss a cooperation project with you," Lin Haoran said earnestly.

"Oh? What kind of cooperation would bring you to me?" Ho Sin Hang smiled, thinking Lin Haoran might be joking.

"Uncle Ho, I need to ask you for something very important. I hope that everything we discuss today, including the cooperation proposal I will present, remains strictly confidential, even from my father, Lin Wanan. Uncle Ho, can you promise me this?" Lin Haoran asked seriously, looking directly at Ho Sin Hang.

He knew this request was significant, critical to whether his carefully laid plans could proceed smoothly. If word leaked, especially reaching his father's ears, it could cause unnecessary disturbances and seriously impact his next steps. Thus, Lin Haoran waited expectantly for Ho Sin Hang's answer.

Seeing Lin Haoran so serious, Ho Sin Hang's eyes flickered with curiosity. Smiling gently, he said, "Little Lin, since you're being so serious, I promise you: whatever we discuss today, not a word will reach even your father, Lin Wanan. Now, you can speak freely. I'm curious — what important matter do you have to discuss?"

Hearing this, Lin Haoran relaxed. He directly took out the Green Island Cement stock certificates, showing proof of holding 12% of the company's shares.

"Uncle Ho, I would like to mortgage these six million shares of Green Island Cement to Hang Seng Bank for a loan of thirty million Hong Kong dollars," Lin Haoran said solemnly.

"How did you manage to amass such a large amount of Green Island Cement shares?" Ho Sin Hang asked, unable to hide his astonishment while looking at the stock certificates. He was fully aware that six million shares of Green Island Cement had enough market value to serve as strong collateral for a thirty-million-dollar loan. However, he was puzzled — Hang Seng Bank had close ties with Wanan Group and knew their financial status well. How had Lin Haoran quietly assembled such a massive stockholding?

Thirty million Hong Kong dollars — even to a financial magnate like Ho Sin Hang — was a significant sum. He knew that even the wealthiest tycoons in Hong Kong would find it hard to casually come up with that much cash. Lin Haoran's move stirred ripples of deep curiosity in his heart.

However, Lin Haoran had no intention of elaborating. "Uncle Ho, the source of the stocks is my personal secret. I'm afraid I can't share it just yet, but I believe in time you will understand. As for the loan, do you think it's feasible?" Lin Haoran asked confidently, smiling.

Ho Sin Hang nodded slightly, signaling understanding. "Of course, no problem. If you are willing to mortgage these 12% shares, I can immediately approve a thirty-million-dollar loan for you. However, I would like to know — how long do you plan to borrow the funds for?"

At this point, Ho Sin Hang's tone became even more cordial, subtly changing his address from "Little Lin" to "Virtuous Nephew Lin," a clear sign of recognition and respect.

"I plan to borrow for two years, Uncle Ho. I hope to repay it in full after two years. Also, about the loan's interest rate — may I ask if you could offer a preferential rate?" Lin Haoran stated his request frankly.

Ho Sin Hang pondered briefly, his eyes reflecting careful thought. In the financial sector, large companies usually enjoyed favorable loan rates. Considering the relationship with Lin Haoran and the special nature of this loan, he offered a generous deal.

"Virtuous Nephew Lin, since we are acquaintances, I won't let you suffer. For this thirty-million-dollar, two-year loan, I propose an annual interest rate of 5%, totaling 10% over two years. By maturity, you'll repay thirty-three million Hong Kong dollars. This condition is quite favorable in the industry. What do you think?"

The terms were similar to those offered by Yumin Finance Company — very acceptable, especially coming from a formal institution like Hang Seng Bank. Lin Haoran was very satisfied.

"No problem, Uncle Ho. Let's proceed with this agreement. I hope the funds can be transferred into my account today if possible," Lin Haoran agreed readily. He believed repaying thirty-three million dollars within two years would be effortless for him. Extending the loan for two years would also help relieve pressure when the Yumin loan matured.

"Virtuous Nephew Lin, since you are so straightforward, I will expedite this. I will personally approve the loan to ensure the funds are available today. I'll have someone draft the contract immediately," Ho Sin Hang said, beaming with satisfaction.

"Uncle Ho, a pleasure doing business with you!"

"A pleasure indeed!"

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