America 1919

In the United States, there weren't many who could pull off this sort of thing, and it just so happened that Donnie knew two families that could.

Morgan, Rockefeller.

Since George Whitney had stepped aside as the foremost, it went without saying who the person lurking behind the scenes was.

After Donnie finished speaking, a young Rockefeller, donning a handcrafted pure wool worsted suit, entered the conference room with a smile and pushed open the door.

"Mr. Block, we meet again!"

The young Rockefeller casually greeted Donnie.

Donnie, sitting there, looked up and replied with a laugh, "Yes, we meet again!"

The young Rockefeller took the seat closest to Donnie, then, feigning ignorance, asked, "Mr. Block, there shouldn't be any problem with me attending ABC's board meeting, right?"

Donnie waved his hand and said, "Actually, there is a problem, but since it's Mr. Rockefeller who organized this setting, you rightfully should be sitting here."

In the face of Donnie's sarcasm, the young Rockefeller just smiled and said nothing.

Cough, cough!

Owen Young gave a tactical cough, drawing everyone's attention. Clearly, he was meant to play the role of the vanguard on this occasion.

With the young Rockefeller reserved, George Whitney self-important, William Mellon silent, and Charles Merrill unqualified, it naturally left Owen Young.

"Donnie, let's talk business, shall we?"

Donnie nodded and replied, "Sure, state your terms."

Owen Young said, "We hope you can release more of your shares in ABC!"

Donnie asked, "How much?"

Owen Young said, "Keep your own shares at around 35%, and in addition, we can guarantee that none of our shares will exceed yours, and we will recognize your position in ABC. However, at the same time, we need to grant the board greater authority. On some major issues that affect the entire development of ABC, you will need the board's approval before you can proceed.

Just like the recent shorting of Sinclair Oil Corporation, if there's another such emergency, we will need you to notify all present in advance and obtain our permission before continuing with the action.

That's our basic condition!"

"What if I do not agree?"

Donnie leaned back in his chair, expressionless, simply observing everyone present with calmness.

Owen Young spread his hands in resignation and said, "Donnie, everyone here is not only a partner but also a friend. We do not want things to get too tense. You are aware of the current outside circumstances. If nothing else happens during this period, you must have already guessed the scenario where ABC's stock prices tumble below their offering price or even lower.

If that is the case, it certainly wouldn't be good for you!"

Donnie maintained his composure, "It wouldn't be good for me, nor would it be for you. Don't forget, you too are shareholders of ABC... with the exception of Mr. Rockefeller. If ABC goes public and its stock falls below the offering price, the loss for everyone here would be significant as well. So, it seems you are prepared to suffer losses in order to confront me head-on!"

At this moment, the young Rockefeller slightly adjusted his posture, his lips quivering ever so slightly, but ultimately, he said nothing.

Owen Young, noticing the young Rockefeller's gesture and seeing that he didn't speak up, could only continue reluctantly. Discover exclusive tales on My Virtual Library Empire

"Donnie, you and I both know, investing is a long-term endeavor. Short-term losses don't count for much. For us, the companies behind us are already mature, and when facing such incidents, they have their own protective mechanisms.

But it's different for you. I admit, your achievements are indeed great, but your growth time has been too short. Although ABC is the largest broadcasting company in America, it is still a new company and lacks experience in dealing with emergencies. Also, everyone is aware of your personal financial situation... Maybe by next year, Donnie, the cash flow in your hands will be the envy of everyone here, but that's next year, not now.

We understand your personality, Donnie. We believe that when you planned for ABC to go public, you had already figured out how to allocate the funds obtained after the listing.

If things continue to develop along the current trajectory, your plans can only be postponed until mid-next year. We believe you can't wait that long!"

Perfect timing to strike!

Donnie couldn't help but admire these people's understanding of him and their control over the situation. Had ABC gone public next year, any attempt by them to use this tactic against him was bound to fail.

Unfortunately, he had chosen to take ABC public this year.

In the end, his haste was to blame. It was precisely because of his eagerness that he gave these people an opportunity to exploit.

"Donnie, your loss in this matter is already a foregone conclusion. The most important thing in doing business on Wall Street is to ensure your own interests, not to lose them for the sake of so-called dignity or face.

We understand your feelings towards ABC, but ever since ABC accepted General Electric and became a joint stock company, it hasn't been entirely yours.

These are the rules of Wall Street. We're not here to snatch ABC from your hands but to develop ABC with you, to make it a truly strong company that can withstand any external threats."