hunt hollywood

Simon took the folder from the female assistant, sat behind the desk and looked down.

David Melloth, the U.S. congressman Simon had met last time at a party at Hearst's house.

Although he broke up with the Hearst family and didn't feel that David Melrowth's proposal could win the support of Congress, Simon still told James Raybould to contact the other party afterwards and let the Westeros Corporation The funded Schlapp Consulting Company followed up this matter simultaneously and took the initiative to help David Meroth build momentum.

As long as it puts some pressure on Panasonic to buy MCA, it's worth it.

Moreover, after one cooperation, Daenerys Entertainment was able to successfully establish a relationship with the congressman named David Melrose.Things like contacts have always been accumulated little by little between you and me.

Because the acquisition of MCA has already been fully prepared, Daenerys Entertainment quietly signed an agreement of intent with MCA in just two days on the weekend.

Although MCA did not quietly disclose the matter to the media this time, due to the official entry of Daenerys Entertainment, Panasonic withdrew a quotation plan from last week and resumed negotiations with MCA.

As a result of this movement, the MCA acquisition is doomed to drag on until at least the end of October, which is exactly what Simon wanted.

With that settled, Simon flew to Melbourne as planned on the new Monday, October 10th.

For several days in a row, I spent several days with Jane De Bont and others in the filming base in the western suburbs of Melbourne, which was originally an abandoned factory and already had a prototype of a studio. Although I was very satisfied with most of the sample films shot by De Bont, but because After all, he was not at the helm himself, and Simon still found a lot of shots that needed reshoots, partly due to technical reasons, partly because he was not satisfied with the effect of the shots.

However, the re-shooting work did not start immediately, but was scheduled for three months later, that is, in January next year.

At that time, the rough silhouette and special effects shots of "Batman: The Dark Knight" will basically be completed, and the details of the reshoots can be confirmed more accurately to save the budget.

Thanks to the success of the first film, the budget for The Dark Knight is virtually unlimited as long as it needs to be, but Simon has always been very mindful of the issue.With strict and meticulous pre-planning, even including the re-shooting in about two weeks, the final budget of the project can be controlled within the planned US$8000 million.

While the Simons were in Melbourne, Panasonic submitted an offer to MCA again after urgent weighing, raising the overall acquisition price to US$65 billion, which was already comparable to the transaction price in Simon’s memory.

Probably because the news of Daenerys Entertainment's official entry into the game inevitably leaked, this week, MCA's stock price also experienced a significant rise again.

According to this trend, it is only a matter of time before the market value of MCA exceeds the upper limit of $70 billion in Simon's plan.

The only good news is that compared to Columbia Pictures’ huge debt of more than one billion US dollars, MCA, which has always been operating very well, has a debt ratio that is almost negligible. Although it is impossible to have no, it is basically short-term. There are no large bank loans for operating liabilities such as accounts and bills.

The Johnston family mansion on the outskirts of Melbourne.

It's October 10th, Saturday, and we're going back to Los Angeles tomorrow. Simon came here to have dinner with everyone. Because of some things in North America, Janet didn't come to Australia with Simon this time.

It is still a big family, Anthony Johnston's family, Norman Johnston's family, and the youngest of the Johnston family, Patrick Johnston and Sarah Keyston, who have recently been officially engaged at the urging of the old man. Ronika naturally also rushed over.

After dinner, Simon came to the study with the old man and the eldest and second child. Patrick felt that since he was a man of the Johnston family, he should also have the right to listen in. It was just that the joke was not over, and he turned into a quail after being glared at by the old man.

"Starting the acquisition of the two companies at the same time may avoid some excessive enthusiasm in the market, but Simon, have you considered the financial pressure in the later period? I mean, not only the future repayment pressure, but also the further pressure of the two companies The capital needed for development itself, especially Bell Atlantic, the telecommunications industry wants to expand, and the investment has always been huge. Although it is only a regional telecommunications company, if you want to develop emerging Internet access services, it is only infrastructure investment , probably calculated at the billion-dollar level?"

In the study, Raymond Johnston obviously knew Simon's recent movements like the palm of his hand, and he asked in an obviously unimpressive manner as soon as he opened his mouth.

Simon naturally considered these issues.

Based on the current accumulation of the Westeros system, Daenerys Entertainment's profits in the next few years, some technology stock assets that are planned to be sold, and the cash flow of the two target companies after the completion of the acquisition, will support the next three to five years. Debt repayment is not a problem.

Even further, after the Gulf War next year, the US economy will recover again.Various other assets held by the Westeros system will rapidly increase in value in the next few years.

In memory, in 1995, the market capitalization of Microsoft and Intel would both reach around $500 billion.

With the Westeros system holding 20% ​​and 15% of the shares of Microsoft and Intel respectively, by then, the value of these stocks alone is expected to reach 175 billion U.S. dollars. If necessary, Simon can completely cash out part of the assets. forms to ease their own financial pressure.

After roughly talking about his plan, the old man frowned even tighter, and said: "It's really stupid to pin your hope on the improvement of the American economy. Bush is not a president who cares about the domestic economy. Planning to drag the United States into another war, you go to find out what the US economy was like during the Vietnam War. If he succeeds in re-election, the US economic situation will only continue to deteriorate, and it is impossible to get better."

Chapter 381 Meeting (Revised)

After Simon and Janet got married, the old man had a tendency to "show his true nature" in front of Simon, just like he did to his sons, and he would not be so polite in many cases.

Hearing the old man bluntly say that his idea was too stupid, Simon did not refute, and patiently said: "Even if the US economy continues to deteriorate, relying on the accumulation of Westeros in recent years, it will probably be able to handle it."

Anthony Johnston said: "Most of the existing asset portfolio of Westeros has a very good development momentum. If these high-quality assets with great growth potential need to be sold to make up for the shortfall caused by the acquisition of MCA and Bell Atlantic, then It's just not worth it."

Simon said: "This is just a coping strategy in the worst situation, and it may not necessarily come true. Moreover, it is not necessarily necessary to sell those assets at that time. Daenerys Entertainment and Bell Atlantic itself can also sell a part of their equity. Relieve financial pressure."

Norman Johnston interjected: "In this case, it is better to adopt a stock exchange acquisition strategy now. Bell Atlantic may not work. For Daenerys Entertainment, given that Hollywood is optimistic about Daenerys Entertainment, the stock exchange model is more likely to succeed than a cash acquisition.”

"I actually really hope to adopt the stock swap model," Simon said, shaking his head again, and said, "However, Daenerys Entertainment is not listed, and the valuation is a very troublesome issue for stock swap acquisitions."

When "Forbes" magazine counted Simon's personal assets in early August, Daenerys Entertainment valued it at $8 billion to $80 billion.

Simon believes that if it goes public, the market value of Daenerys Entertainment can definitely break through the 100 billion US dollar mark easily, even if it is 150 billion US dollars or even 200 billion US dollars, it is not impossible.

However, in the current non-listed state, if Daenerys Entertainment wants to acquire MCA through a share swap, it is difficult for its own valuation to exceed 100 billion US dollars. In addition, it has to pay a high premium for MCA shares. Daenerys is at a disadvantage in terms of entertainment.

Raymond Johnston suddenly asked a question that seemed to be off the mark: "Cersei Capital, Simon, do you think there will be more suitable opportunities in the next few years?"

Simon knew about the hedge fund the old man was referring to.

If Cersei Capital can obtain a large amount of funds similar to previous operations in the next few years, the risk of huge debts brought about by the two acquisitions will be much reduced.

Thinking of this, Simon said: "The turmoil in Europe should bring some opportunities. However, Cersei Capital will focus on private equity, asset management and M&A consulting in the future. The size of the hedge fund will be reduced to 30% At the same time, try not to participate in macro hedging aimed at the national economic level, so as to avoid being targeted by the government of the target country in other areas where Westeros is involved.”

From the stock market crash in 1987 to the ongoing operation of the crude oil futures market, although Simon has quickly accumulated a large amount of wealth for himself, it has actually attracted countless criticisms.

Now, Westeros Corporation has completed the preliminary layout in the global entertainment, fashion, technology and other industries. If these industries want to develop smoothly, they must give up something.

Just like the sterling crisis in 1992 in memory, if Cersei Capital dared to short the pound like Soros, it would definitely make a lot of money.However, the British government may have nothing to do with Cersei Capital, but it can make it difficult for other industries involved in the Westeros system to move forward in the UK.

The study room is full of smart people. Not only was Raymond Johnston not disappointed when he heard what Simon said, but he nodded in appreciation, and turned back to the topic just now in a gentle tone, saying: "In this case, if you insist on starting two Acquisitions and adopting an all-cash strategy, it is best to introduce partners, so that not only the pressure on cash, but also a lot of resistance in other aspects will be reduced.”

"I have considered this option, Ray. However, the two companies, if MCA introduces cooperative capital, will definitely face asset valuation issues in the process of merging MCA and Daenerys Entertainment. Bell Atlantic is very suitable for this, But it is not necessary. After all, the introduction of partners, or to solve the funding problem, or the two sides can complement each other in terms of technology or channels, but these are not what I need. Westeros can definitely raise enough funds, Bell Atlantic It also has a very strong accumulation of technology and channels. What I need to face is the risk of future loan repayment, but such risks can be fully tolerated by Westeros."

Raymond Johnston felt the firmness in Simon's tone, shook his head slightly, and sighed: "Tens of billions of dollars in debt, Simon, your current net worth is already unmatched, there is no need to take this risk again risk."

Simon smiled and said, "Actually, Lei, everything now is just the beginning for me."

Raymond Johnston froze for a moment, reached out and patted Simon on the shoulder, instead of persuading him, he said, "Then, let's talk for a while, brothers."

After the old man finished speaking, he was about to get up and leave first. When he remembered something, he said again: "One more thing, Simon, you and Jenny should have a baby as soon as possible. Even if you two are too busy or want to enjoy the two-person world and don't have time to take care of your children , it can be placed here in Melbourne, and Jenny and her mother will help to bring it."

Simon nodded and explained: "Jenny and I really want to have a child, but Jenny has been quiet for more than half a year."

Anthony Johnston asked without hesitation: "Have you checked, I mean, physically?"

Simon nodded: "I've checked it twice, and it's fine."

Janet, who was very resistant to the hospital, had an examination with Simon in private because her stomach had not moved.

Norman Johnston also expressed concern: "Maybe you can try test-tube babies."

Simon shook his head and said, "Jenny and I plan to take another look. It's hard to say whether the technology of test-tube babies is really safe."

It is inconvenient to discuss this kind of thing too much among several big men.

Raymond Johnston sighed, stood up from the sofa, stopped Simon and his two sons from trying to get up, and said, "You guys continue talking, I'm going to rest." Passing by Simon, But the old man patted him on the shoulder again, and said: "You can play outside, don't have anything to do with other women, Jenny will be sad, and it will be a big trouble for yourself."

When Simon heard this, his expression was a little embarrassed, and he didn't know how to answer at all. Fortunately, the old man left the study without waiting for his response.

Anthony Johnston and Norman Johnston looked at Simon's expression, with smiles on their faces, Anthony said: "Don't mind, Simon, Dad has also explained the same about our brothers. In a family like ours, if If those things really happen, it will be very troublesome.”

Simon had no choice but to raise the corners of his mouth and nod.

The three of them chatted about Seventh TV Network and telecommunications investment, and they didn't go to rest until it was nearly eleven o'clock.

Early the next morning, Simon set off for North America.

Before you know it, it is late October.

This week at the end of October, one of the most talked about topics is undoubtedly the Global Rich List released by Forbes magazine following the North American 10 Rich List.

There is no suspense, with a personal net worth of US$210 billion, Simon ranks No.1 on the list of the world's richest people.No. 2 Japanese real estate tycoon Yoshiaki Tsutsumi's personal net worth dropped directly to 160 billion US dollars, a full 50 billion US dollars lower than Simon.

It is worth mentioning that the Johnston family also entered the top 30 list this time with a family asset valuation of US$36 billion, ranking [-]th.

However, because the Johnston family has been quite low-key and the family members' shareholding is relatively dispersed, this figure is actually an underestimate of at least 5 million US dollars.If it hadn't been for the Johnston family's sudden show of strength to directly buy Australia's Seventh TV Network for US$8 million in cash, the asset valuation figure this time might be even lower.

In North America, although there are more and more definite news about the release of the "Forbes" Global Rich List and Daenerys Entertainment's upcoming bid for MCA, in the new week, several mainstream media on the east and west coasts of North America began to report almost at the same time Congressman David Melroth submitted a bill restricting the acquisition of American companies by foreign investors. The bill focuses on curbing the excessive involvement of overseas giants in the American cultural industry.

The controversy caused by Sony's acquisition of Columbia Pictures last year is still vivid in my memory. Therefore, even though some people are very clear that the possibility of passing this bill is unlikely, many media have begun to follow suit and report on a large scale.

Panasonic, which has publicly initiated the acquisition of MCA, will inevitably become the focus of this public opinion turmoil.

Affected by these positive or negative news, MCA's stock price continued to fluctuate during the five trading days from October 10 to October 22.

As of the close on October 10, MCA's share price was finally fixed at $26.

At the same time, on Friday, October 10, the MCA Board of Directors officially approved Panasonic’s $26 billion acquisition offer after several adjustments, and plans to hold an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders next week to vote.

This obviously means that Daenerys Entertainment must take action before MCA shareholders vote.

US East Coast.

Simon at his estate in Greenwich, Connecticut.

The time is June 10th, Saturday.

The black Mercedes-Benz car stopped in front of the villa. Raymond Smith, the chairman and CEO of Bell Atlantic, was still a little confused about the purpose of Westeros' sudden invitation yesterday until he got out of the car.

However, seeing the young couple appearing in front of the villa to greet him, Raymond Smith still smiled and stepped forward to greet them.Apart from other things, the young man in front of him who has created a huge business empire in just a few years is worth meeting no matter what.

During the handshake and greetings, Simon was also looking at the middle-aged man in front of him who had risen step by step from the most grassroots employee to the chairman and CEO of Bell Atlantic.

Raymond Smith looks about 50 years old at most. He is tall and tall in a black suit. His appearance is much younger than his actual age. He has a Chinese character face with a shrewd and capable temperament. The only thing that is not harmonious is probably the pair on the bridge of his nose. Old-school oversized tortoiseshell glasses.

Although it was Saturday, everyone was not the kind of person who was very free, so the meeting was only scheduled for an hour. After the meeting, Raymond Smith had to fly to Europe immediately.

When everyone came to the study, Janet personally served Raymond Smith a cup of coffee and put a cup of juice in front of Simon before turning around and leaving.

Raymond Smith took a sip of coffee, noticed the juice in front of Simon, and asked with a smile, "Simon, don't you drink coffee?"

Simon shook his head and said, "I used to drink it, but I quit it recently."

Raymond Smith didn't ask why, put down his coffee cup, skillfully found another topic, and said: "Speaking of which, regarding the exclusive contract with America Online last time, I have studied the World Wide Web developed by Eaglet. The technical solution has great potential for development. If Bell Atlantic hadn’t been able to distract and take care of other businesses in recent years, I actually didn’t want to sign that agreement.”

Simon took advantage of the situation and said: "The fixed-line telephone business has already entered the bottleneck stage, and the federal government will not open up regulations on the telecommunications industry in the short term. So, what is Bell Atlantic going to do next?"

When Raymond Smith heard this question, he looked at Simon a few times, and suddenly smiled: "Simon, maybe you already know?"

Simon hesitated, but nodded, and said, "Mobile communication."

Westeros has collected enough Bell Atlantic data during this period, and Simon naturally knows the company's next development ideas.

Affected by the AT&T split in 1984, regional telecommunications companies were unable to get involved in long-distance telephone business and cable television business, and telecommunications equipment manufacturing was also restricted. In addition, the Internet industry has not yet reached the scale and volume that can meet Bell Atlantic's appetite.

Therefore, the next business that Bell Atlantic can focus on expanding is only mobile communications.

In fact, Raymond Smith's upcoming trip to Europe is to investigate the new generation of GSM digital communication technology that has gradually taken shape in Europe.Moreover, in the original time and space, it was precisely because of Raymond Smith's key layout in the mobile communication industry in advance that Verizon once became the largest mobile communication operator in the United States with a user scale exceeding that of AT&T.

At this time, Raymond Smith heard the word 'mobile communication' blurted out by Simon, and felt that he roughly understood the purpose of the young man's invitation today, and said with a smile: "Simon, I happen to know that you have invested in a mobile communication equipment company in Europe." The manufacturer, Nokia, right? Moreover, this company has a good accumulation in the new generation of GSM digital communication technology, and it seems that it is still developing a new generation of digital mobile phones. So, you invited me this time because you hope that we can work together cooperation in the field of mobile communications, right?"

Simon didn't expect Raymond Smith to directly guess the purpose of inviting him to meet today, but he nodded with a smile and said, "If there is a chance, I certainly hope that Bell Atlantic can cooperate with Nokia."

Chapter 382 Done! (build)

In a living room downstairs of the villa, Janet and Sofia Feisi discussed the management adjustments of Chateau Latour during this period, and chatted casually about other topics.Janet inadvertently raised her wrist and looked at her watch. The meeting between Simon and Raymond Smith had lasted for an hour, four and 10 minutes, far exceeding the original one-hour agreement.

Sophia also looked at her watch, got up and said, "It's already noon, I should go back."

Janet sent Sofia to the door of the villa, noticed her eyes looking towards the stairs inadvertently, and said with a smile: "There are a lot of things recently, Simon will fly back to Los Angeles in the afternoon, you may not see him this time."

Sophia gave Janet a blank look as if nothing had happened: "Who said I want to see him?"

"Yeah, who said that?" Janet caught the bug in Sophia's sentence and joked, "I didn't say you wanted to see him."

Sophia blushed suddenly.

Although Simon warned her that she should not think about what she shouldn't think about that day, but since she had a physical relationship, her attitude towards that man still unconsciously changed.

At least, the pleasure of fish and water that afternoon was really unforgettable for her.

After placing the children here, I originally made up my mind to come and see them as long as the weekend is not too busy.However, I just arrived this morning, and I heard that Simon happened to be here, so I couldn't help running over under the pretext of discussing the management of Chateau Latour with Janet.

Before coming here, I couldn't help changing into an OL suit that the man liked very much, and even put on makeup carefully.

Then, Simon didn't see it, but Janet saw the flaw.

Seen by Janet's playful eyes, Sophia almost ran away, drove away from the manor, raised a hand to gently caress her hot cheeks, and inexplicably lingered in her mind how much he left on her so roughly that day. In the case of red marks.

God, I really can't save myself.

Janet waited for Sophia to leave, instead of going upstairs, she called the four girls of ABCD to start preparing lunch. Raymond Smith was obviously going to stay at noon today.

In the study room of the villa.

Raymond Smith had already informed his assistant that he had temporarily canceled his trip to Europe, and he didn't avoid Simon when he called.

When Simon first heard that Westeros already owned 4.9% of Bell Atlantic and hoped to acquire the company in its entirety, Raymond Smith even thought the young man was joking.