Chapter 321: Don't Call Me the Richest Man, I'm Afraid
Since Li Tang had already spoken so plainly, Lu Chenyi and Long Fuyuan weren't deaf, and naturally understood everything clearly. Li Tang not only guided them toward investing in the upstream industry chain but specifically pointed out that Hancock Prospecting was a worthwhile investment target.
"The year 2004 has passed, and before the Spring Festival, I'm indeed busy—but I can still make some time," Lu Chenyi remarked. His daily schedule was packed, but prioritizing carefully, he could always free up some space.
Looking at Li Tang, he considered briefly and then said, "Why don't the two of us go together to Australia to meet the owner of Hancock Prospecting that you mentioned?"
Li Tang glanced at the calendar on the table. He had recently spoken to Fred, asking him to head over to Australia as well. Now that the company had just recovered from a crisis and the situation had improved greatly, the employees and contractors at the mine were eager to meet Li Tang in person. If he could go there to boost morale, the team's motivation would surely soar, and their work for the coming year would greatly improve.
One shouldn't underestimate the impact of a boss's words of encouragement. Sometimes, a simple speech could motivate the staff to work tirelessly for an entire year. Employees needed dreams and reasons to keep striving.
"I'm planning to head to Perth soon," Li Tang told them. "Hancock Prospecting's headquarters is located there, and their boss, Gina, lives there most of the time. If you both can spare the time, we can travel together. I don't personally know Gina, but I'll try to arrange a meeting. Given Haigang Steel and Tangshan Steel's reputations, she has no reason not to meet with you."
"I definitely have time!" Long Fuyuan, already determined to join forces with Li Tang, eagerly seized any opportunity he could get. "I'll head back to Tangshan Steel right away, take care of year-end matters, and get my visa sorted out! It's rare for me to travel overseas, and I'd also like to experience Australia's scenery and see some kangaroos."
Lu Chenyi initially hesitated. He had never heard much about Hancock Prospecting, nor did he know this female owner Li Tang had mentioned. He was reluctant, as his schedule was packed. But seeing how proactive Long Fuyuan was, he worried that if he didn't go, he might miss out on a valuable opportunity and regret it later.
"Actually, I can also make some time. I'll join you on the trip to Perth."
"Once our itinerary is set, I'll have Lianying Mining arrange our accommodations there," Li Tang reassured them, feeling no inconvenience.
"Apart from trying to meet Hancock and explore investment opportunities," Lu Chenyi reminded him seriously, "you promised us—and we have it signed in our contract—that you'd help us find an iron ore deposit domestically. Don't try to renege! Let's keep each matter clear."
"I won't forget," Li Tang laughed. "After all, our contract clearly states that if I find a deposit, you'll reward me handsomely with tens of millions in funds. Why would I refuse money?"
"Minister Qu, please quickly draft the exploration plan with Li Tang. Whatever exploration funds are needed, just send the proposal directly to me for approval. No matter the cost, we'll fund it!" Lu Chenyi instructed Qu Yongan urgently.
"Mr. Li has already pointed out a promising location in Huizhou Province, which is fairly close. We've already sent people for an initial site survey. We'll soon apply for the mining rights and finalize the project proposal," Qu Yongan assured them reliably.
"Hurry up, don't delay!" Lu Chenyi was clearly anxious. It was probably the only chance they'd get to have Li Tang's help on exploration. Someone with Li Tang's level of wealth—potentially billions of dollars—was willing to work so hard for them. Such an opportunity was indeed rare.
"How about we at Tangshan Steel pitch in as well for your Huizhou iron ore project? The more, the merrier," Long Fuyuan, stoutly built and smiling innocently, cunningly tried to slip in.
"This is a matter between Li Tang and me—we've got a contract. Don't try to mess things up!" Lu Chenyi naturally refused.
"But Li Tang, we also signed a contract for 150 million tons of iron ore supply. You seem to be playing favorites here!" Long Fuyuan still tried.
Li Tang waved him off with a smile, "There'll be more chances. Whether iron, gold, or copper mines, there are still many unexplored areas globally. Opportunities will always arise."
"Exactly, what's your rush?" Lu Chenyi quickly pushed Long Fuyuan away from Li Tang.
"Chairman Lu, seems you're the one who's impatient," Long Fuyuan teased, not wanting to lose. "Trying to monopolize Li Tang's help!"
"Enough nonsense! I'll treat you all to dinner!" Lu Chenyi laughed, changing the topic.
After the meal, Li Tang and Long Fuyuan left Haigang, each preparing for their overseas trips.
Returning to Yanjing's Yunding Tower, Li Tang saw Dai Yingchi rushing to meet him. Dai's tall frame moved quickly, his stride powerful. "Finally back! Has everything regarding Shazhai Molybdenum's equity transfer in Huizhou been settled?"
"Almost. Alice is handling things there, and we'll finalize everything before the Lunar New Year, including receiving the first payment," Li Tang responded, thirsty after traveling. As he brewed tea, he looked up, "I'm heading abroad soon, to Perth. The scenery there is pretty good. You and your girlfriend have been busy all year—why not apply for travel visas, combine work with leisure, and take a well-deserved break?"
"I'm swamped with year-end company evaluations and team-building activities. I can't find the time right now," Dai Yingchi declined, clearly not in a vacationing mood.
"He Runqi has been abroad many times, yet you never seem interested. Don't you want to see if the moon looks different overseas?"
"I'll consider it when things slow down a bit."
"You've worked hard." Li Tang genuinely appreciated Dai's effort in managing the company's intricate daily operations. These seemingly minor tasks were crucial for employee morale and the company's stability. Dai Yingchi was effectively Li Tang's behind-the-scenes strategist, ensuring internal cohesion.
Dai Yingchi shrugged off the praise, moving directly to business. "Recently, two media outlets approached us, requesting interviews."
"What media?" Li Tang disliked media attention, especially after the recent trust crisis involving Lianying Mining. He had grown increasingly wary.
"They're both wealth-ranking publications. They claim you're on their rich list and want to interview you about your journey to success and wealth accumulation strategies." Dai Yingchi smiled slightly. "Honestly, I'm also curious about your rank this year."
"What nonsense!" Li Tang wasn't amused at all. He barely had any cash on hand. After selling part of Shazhai Molybdenum's shares earlier, he'd received about 200 million RMB. But most had already been used to maintain the company, leaving him nearly broke again. Both his personal and corporate accounts had run almost dry.
Yet these people were putting him on some rich list, making him look like he was rolling in money. This was practically setting him up for trouble. If jealous individuals investigated his tax payments, they'd find he hadn't paid much tax—his companies hadn't even turned a profit yet.
The media fixated on Lianying Mining's soaring stock prices, assuming Li Tang, as the majority shareholder, had substantial wealth. But those assets were inflated, purely paper wealth. Since taking over, Li Tang had continuously invested without any real returns.
Noticing Li Tang's irritation, Dai Yingchi was puzzled. "It doesn't seem like a bad thing, really."
To Li Tang, it wasn't strictly bad, but certainly not good either. Although all his assets were transparent and legitimately acquired, too much exposure attracted unnecessary attention and potential trouble. Being publicly recognized on the rich list meant becoming a target for envy and unwanted scrutiny.
"Please contact those media outlets," Li Tang instructed firmly, "and convince them not to put me on their lists."
"Alright, I'll do my best," Dai Yingchi responded, though still confused by Li Tang's reluctance.
"Anything else?" Li Tang asked, noticing Dai hadn't left yet.
"About this year's bonuses—our accounts are low. Should we reduce them slightly and compensate employees next year when finances improve?" Dai Yingchi suggested hesitantly.
"No," Li Tang shook his head. "Issue bonuses according to the highest standard. Alice assured me the first payment from the Shazhai equity transfer will arrive before the Lunar New Year. That money was earned by everyone's hard work—it belongs to them."
"Understood." Dai Yingchi nodded confidently.
…
In Perth, Fred walked proudly, head held high, a broad grin on his flushed face. Despite promising Li Tang he'd avoid provoking controversy in the media, he ultimately couldn't resist accepting an interview request from the Financial Review.
Seeing cameras, Fred enthusiastically declared, "Lianying Mining has overcome all major financial obstacles. Our production capacity is nearly fully sold out! Just watch—Lianying Mining will soon become a cash-generating machine, bringing constant wealth to our investors!"
Having seen Fred's confidence before, Yuna asked directly, "Do you believe Lianying Mining is fully prepared now?"
"Absolutely," Fred responded confidently. "We've removed all obstacles and defeated every opponent targeting us!" He clenched his fist triumphantly. "Nothing can stop us now!"
"Do you believe your Lianying Mining will develop into a company comparable to Rio Tinto?"
"Yes, absolutely!" Fred didn't bother with false modesty at all. "It took Rio Tinto over a century to reach its current scale. But Lianying Mining won't need nearly that long—ten years at most!"
"Such rapid development—where does your confidence come from?"
"It comes from our boss, our vast reserves of iron ore with unlimited potential, and the unstoppable growth of the Chinese market! The booming steel market in China is driving global steel industry expansion and the thriving iron ore trade."
Fred smiled brightly at the female reporter. "Please send a message to all iron ore producers worldwide: we've established even closer cooperation with China's steel enterprises. Haigang Steel and Tangshan Steel will be our regular clients for the next decade! Tell me, how will other iron ore companies compete with us?"
"But companies like Rio Tinto, although they haven't yet released last year's full financial results, clearly made billions in profits last year. Meanwhile, Lianying Mining has been operating at a loss. How can you compete with them?"
"Profits?" Fred laughed confidently. "That's just a matter of time. Don't worry—every investor and shareholder will soon recoup their investments and generate considerable returns. Besides, you mentioned competing with Rio Tinto. Do you know our current share price and market capitalization?"
"I have to admit, Lianying Mining's stock price is truly insane!" Yuna glanced at her notes. "According to the real-time share price, Lianying Mining's shares have already broken seven Australian dollars each! Its market capitalization has surpassed ten billion Australian dollars!"
"So you noticed." Fred looked extremely proud.
A company valued at ten billion Australian dollars was quite rare in Australia.
"In terms of market capitalization alone, Lianying Mining has become Australia's third-largest iron ore company, and fourth-largest globally!" Yuna's voice revealed her excitement. Could you imagine a company that had never made a profit, continuously operated at a loss, yet achieved a valuation of ten billion dollars? This was nothing short of a financial miracle! Companies that had labored for decades or even a century never saw valuations this high.
"Exactly! That's Lianying Mining!" Fred laughed joyfully. "Everyone recognizes our potential—it's a reflection of the times!"
"I have to say, your achievement is unbelievable!" Yuna moved the microphone closer. "Can you share your secret to success?"
"Secret?" Fred stared directly into the camera. "China's market is becoming increasingly significant and will soon be the primary driver of global economic growth—that's our secret!"
"You've clearly dominated that market."
"No, we haven't dominated it. We're simply responding to customer needs."
"But you already secured long-term agreements with the largest and second-largest steelmakers there. Now that you've secured such a market, what heights do you think Lianying Mining could reach in the future?"
"Our growth potential is unlimited! Surpassing Rio Tinto is our next target. And as for overtaking BHP Billiton and becoming the largest mining company globally, just watch—it's only a matter of time!"
"Apart from the development of Lianying Mining, another hot topic is obviously your mysterious boss. I want to ask: during the recent trust crisis and the sharp decline in your stock price, did this mysterious boss play a key role?"
"He played the decisive role! Without our boss, Lianying Mining wouldn't exist today!"
"So you're saying that those huge contracts and substantial loans you've recently secured were thanks to him?"
"Exactly! Everyone knows about his astonishing capabilities. In China, his strength and influence are unimaginable and are poised to impact the entire world!"
"What kind of person is he?"
"He… he's very young, incredibly talented—not just in mineral exploration, but he has unparalleled skills in every area. He's our leader!" Fred's praise was genuine. Countless times, facts had proven that his boss could achieve anything. Fred sincerely respected him, especially in matters related to Lianying Mining, where his boss's vision far exceeded even Fred's own ambitious plans.
"We've heard from insiders at media organizations that publish Australia's richest list and even the global billionaire rankings. Through special channels, we learned that your mysterious boss will be on the global wealth rankings this year!"
"That's inevitable," Fred said matter-of-factly.
"Where do you think he ranks on the global rich list?"
"He's number one!" Fred thumped his chest confidently. "At least in my heart, that's exactly where he belongs!"
"Given Lianying Mining's market value of ten billion Australian dollars, and that the mysterious boss holds approximately 40% of the shares—worth around four billion dollars—it's clear he wouldn't be ranked number one."
"One day, he definitely will be number one!"
Such words sounded outrageously arrogant, especially given that Lianying Mining had yet to generate a single cent of profit.
Yet, when people read the news and heard Fred's comments, they saw Lianying Mining's stock price soaring relentlessly, its market value continually expanding. Suddenly, Fred's bold words didn't seem so exaggerated.
In streets, cafés, and bars, everyone eagerly discussed Lianying Mining's meteoric rise and speculated about its mysterious boss. Fred had clearly indicated that the boss was very young—a detail particularly appealing to the younger generation. Who wouldn't dream of becoming wealthy overnight and crafting their own legendary success?
"Hmph!" Gareth sneered slightly as he glanced at the newspaper, his normally aloof face carrying a hint of sarcasm.
"That Chinese guy is still keeping a low profile, never showing his face publicly. But Fred maintains his usual high-profile style, excellent at leveraging media to hype up the company." Ron, as the marketing director, closely monitored media trends.
"Fred indeed excels at these tricks." Gareth tossed aside the newspaper. "Has there been any significant shift in the marketing department? Do we need major adjustments for iron ore sales next year?"
"Our intel suggests China's steel production remains robust, but after several years of rapid expansion, growth may soon plateau. Iron ore demand will continue growing, albeit at a slower pace. For us, though, sales pressure is minimal."
"That's reassuring." Gareth relaxed slightly.
"But there's something we must keep an eye on. China, now the largest global iron ore consumer, is miles ahead of the previous top market—Japan. Haigang Steel and Tangshan Steel were our regular clients and will remain so next year. However, once Lianying Mining enters production, they'll undeniably take significant market share from us."
Gareth sighed, realizing he'd miscalculated. He hadn't expected Lianying Mining to secure such large contracts and ample funding, accelerating its growth beyond expectations. His earlier attempt to suppress them with Rio Tinto had only briefly worked, then quickly backfired.
"Even more concerning, many Chinese steel companies have restarted negotiations with Lianying Mining. More enterprises are eager to secure long-term iron ore contracts from them."
"You think we'll completely lose the Chinese market?"
"Long-term, if China's economy maintains its rapid growth, iron ore demand will keep increasing. The tens of millions—or even hundreds of millions—of tons of iron ore capacity Lianying Mining adds each year probably won't saturate the market anytime soon. Optimistically, we don't need to worry too much."
"But what if uncontrollable factors halt their rapid economic growth?"
Both knew that iron ore's booming years were entirely due to China's economic and industrial explosion, fueling global prosperity across related industries. Relying on markets like America, Europe, Japan, or Korea—which had all slowed dramatically—was unrealistic.
The era had changed. Even if uncomfortable admitting it, reality was clear. Previously indifferent about the Chinese market, they now analyzed it meticulously, aiming to grasp future trends.
"In that scenario, not just us at BHP Billiton, but every global mining firm would suffer. Perhaps the mining industry might even enter another severe downturn."
The international situation was always unpredictable. Gareth refused to worry unnecessarily or lose confidence. "Regardless, we'll keep expanding our capacity! Let's bet China's economy will continue its robust growth!"
"Should we try signing ten- or even twenty-year long-term contracts?" Ron was still uneasy. If the iron ore market ever crashed, only companies with long-term contracts like Lianying Mining would remain secure. BHP Billiton, however, was focusing less on long-term deals and prioritizing spot-market sales, which offered higher immediate profits and were encouraged by steelmakers' urgent demand.
"We're BHP Billiton—we're destined to lead the market, not follow others!" Gareth declared confidently. Still, he quietly acknowledged another concern. "Lianying Mining is already too big to stop easily."
"Indeed. People are already debating when Lianying Mining's value will surpass Rio Tinto's and when their mysterious boss might become the world's richest man."
"Those fools at Rio Tinto—especially that idiot Alba—actually agreed to a transport contract with Lianying Mining!"
Gareth knew Lianying Mining was no longer a small competitor easily crushed. But BHP Billiton had ample experience handling mid-sized opponents.
Since they couldn't destroy it, they'd simply buy it!
"We need to find a way to show goodwill toward that young Chinese man and acquire Lianying Mining from him!"
"One hundred billion Australian dollars is quite a lot. Will the board agree?" Ron sounded uncertain.
"They will certainly agree!" Gareth was confident about this point.
The board had even contemplated acquiring giants like Rio Tinto, Vale, or even Xstrata!
Currently, BHP Billiton's market cap exceeded 100 billion USD, nearly 200 billion Australian dollars. This year's profits alone approached 10 billion AUD. Acquiring a company like Lianying Mining would require capital, but it wasn't an insurmountable obstacle.
BHP Billiton had risen to prominence by steadily acquiring competitors.
Their acquisition spree had never stopped!
…
When Li Tang arrived in Perth, just after getting off the plane and stepping into the terminal, several young Australians from the same flight approached him to chat enthusiastically.
These energetic young people showed great openness and had no reservations about speaking with strangers.
"Are you Chinese?"
"Are you perhaps the mysterious owner behind Lianying Mining?"
"I know many wealthy Chinese people, especially those from Hong Kong. They study here, drive sports cars, live in luxury villas, and party on their yachts!"
"Even if you're not the owner, surely you must know him, right?"
"He's just so amazing—I wish to become a young billionaire just like him!"
"If you see him, please ask him how he achieved all this. Could he be a god?"
"And definitely ask him for me, how can I quickly earn one hundred million Australian dollars?"
Facing the inexplicable enthusiasm of these young Australians, Li Tang just smiled politely and nodded, unable to come up with any proper response.
What was going on?
Why were these people suddenly being so friendly?
Clearly, they didn't recognize who he actually was; they simply saw a group of Eastern faces and came to chat out of curiosity.
As they walked out of the airport, everyone around them cast curious glances, whispering, pointing, and even snapping pictures with their cameras.
Even the airport staff seemed unusually warm and patient with them compared to previous visits.
He'd flown to Perth several times before, but had never experienced anything like this. It felt like being chased by fans.
When they got into the car arranged by Lianying Mining, Lu Chenyi remarked with surprise, "Looks like you've become a celebrity here!"
Li Tang shrugged helplessly, equally puzzled. "Whenever I visited before, nobody gave me a second glance. But now, it feels as if the world has suddenly changed!"
"Clearly, they don't actually recognize you, but it's obvious they envy you," observed Long Fuyuan thoughtfully.
"Now that 2004 has ended, domestic and international media have been buzzing about rich lists lately. You, my friend, are definitely a hot new entrant—not just in China, but here in Australia too!"
"To become so wealthy at such a young age from scratch—you've truly impressed us."
"And it's not through special relationships or by launching some hit game overnight, as some game tycoons back home have recently done, quickly raking in enormous wealth due to pure luck and timing. Your situation is totally different: you not only followed the trends of the era, but also relied on your genuine abilities every step of the way!"
"Rich men who've made their fortune through pure hard work and technical expertise are indeed rare."
"But how on earth did you—a technical guy—also master the art of making money?"
Sitting in the car, Lu Chenyi and Long Fuyuan chatted endlessly, offering their own analyses and teasing Li Tang mercilessly.
Clearly, they couldn't quite comprehend Li Tang's method of rising to success.
Some inherit family businesses, some rely on intelligence or speculation, others benefit from sheer luck…
They'd seen all sorts of ways to become rich and knew the stories of countless billionaires. Yet, Li Tang's story had unique aspects that baffled them. He had used geological exploration technology to carve out a vast empire—something entirely unprecedented.
This approach was undoubtedly unique worldwide.
Just a few short years ago, Lianying Mining had been a near-bankrupt, insignificant junior exploration company with a market cap under twenty million AUD. Now, it had rapidly become the world's fourth-largest iron ore enterprise!
This was truly a miracle!
Such dramatic wealth creation was uncommon even in bubbly industries like the internet.
Numerous media outlets discussed the astonishing rise of Lianying Mining and its mysterious owner. Some had even published books attempting to teach readers the secrets of getting rich.
Their advice generally boiled down to a few simple steps:
First, enter the market at its lowest point, cheaply acquiring a promising junior exploration company.
Second, courageously risk huge sums (over 100 million AUD), despite intense criticism and doubt, to carry out exploration and secure land.
Third, seize the booming opportunity presented by China's rapidly expanding market by signing numerous long-term contracts.
Though these steps appeared simple, upon reflection most readers quickly realized they were unrealistic for the vast majority of people. Even if one recognized market opportunities early, who had twenty million AUD available to acquire a listed company? Who could easily invest another 100 million AUD in exploration? Moreover, how could you convince major steel enterprises to trust you enough to sign long-term contracts?
These were insurmountable barriers for ordinary people.
Nonetheless, newspapers and books discussing these strategies were still immensely popular and sold extremely well.
Listening to Lu Chenyi and Long Fuyuan's discussion, someone from Lianying Mining who had come to welcome them handed over several newspapers.
Glancing through them, Lu Chenyi laughed. "Impressive! The newspapers here analyzed your net worth quite clearly. Just your shares in Lianying Mining alone are worth around four billion AUD!"
"They've also reported your recent sale of Shazhai Molybdenum Mine shares, earning you over one hundred million AUD in cash."
"Even though Tallego isn't a publicly listed company, they clearly regard that project very highly, giving it a high valuation. Your 17% stake is estimated to be worth at least two or three billion AUD."
"Adding it all together, your total net worth is around six to seven billion AUD!"
"You're officially the richest man now!"
Both CEOs relentlessly teased Li Tang, laughing openly.
Li Tang sat quietly, feeling more uncomfortable than proud. "If I told you I hardly have any cash at all, would you believe me?"
"Yes," Lu Chenyi nodded firmly. "If you had plenty of cash, you wouldn't have desperately tried to borrow money from me."
"Wealth isn't about how much cash you hold, but the total value of assets in your name," laughed Long Fuyuan.
"True wealthy people always hide their fortune and keep a low profile," Li Tang waved dismissively. "Don't call me the richest—I'm afraid!"
Soon, the car arrived at Lianying Mining's modest headquarters building—indeed small considering the company's current scale.
However, construction of a new, much larger building was underway on adjacent land and nearing completion.
Fred and the senior management of Lianying Mining stood solemnly outside, fully prepared. As Li Tang stepped out of the car, Fred bowed deeply and exclaimed warmly, "Welcome, boss!"
Behind him, all employees had apparently been trained for this moment and collectively bowed deeply, calling out loudly, "Welcome, boss!"
Li Tang was startled, nearly jumping back into the car. After calming himself, he smiled awkwardly and waved. "What's this about? No need for such formalities!"
"Everyone's just really excited to greet you in person," Fred replied cheerfully, stepping forward for a hug. Noticing familiar faces behind Li Tang, he joyously shouted, "Lu, Long!"
After embracing Fred, Lu Chenyi felt somewhat uneasy with Fred's exaggerated warmth and forced a smile. "Fred, you're too polite."
As Fred led them inside, he continued speaking eagerly. "You've arrived just in time. It's year-end, and the Association of Mining and Exploration Companies (AMFC) invited us to their annual meeting. Leaders from across the industry will gather there—boss, you must attend!"
Li Tang quickly declined. "We're here on other business. I prefer not to attend public events filled with media—it's not good for me."
Fred understood Li Tang's concerns. "The daytime conference is public, yes, but there's a private evening banquet where many junior exploration firms seek investments or cooperation. If you attend, you'll undoubtedly be the star!"
Li Tang glanced at Lu Chenyi and Long Fuyuan, unwilling to waste their time. "To tell you the truth, we're mainly here to meet Gina, CEO of Hancock Exploration, to explore cooperation."
Fred clapped excitedly. "Gina from Hancock? She attends that evening banquet every year! It's the perfect opportunity to discuss cooperation over drinks—that's the banquet's true purpose!"
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