Chapter 352: Focusing on the Domestic Front for a Meantime
Michael was in the Golden Topper and was looking at his portfolio. So far, he had been in many industries. Renewable energy, transportation, medicine, shipbuilding, smartphones, agriculture, aerospace, semiconductor…and the list went on. His net worth, if he combined all his ventures, had now reached a staggering 600 billion dollars.
He leaned back in his chair, relishing the moment and the immense success he had achieved.
As he was deep in thought, there was a knock on the door. It was Juliet. Michael looked up and smiled. "Come in, Juliet."
Juliet entered the room, her expression serious yet calm. "Michael, we need to talk about the recent developments with the other companies. They're not taking our rejection lightly."
Michael's smile faded a bit, but he remained composed. "I expected as much. What's the latest?"
Juliet took a seat across from him and opened her tablet. "IBM, NVIDIA, Google, and Microsoft are all strategizing their next moves. Some of their plans are straightforward, like proposing new partnership models. But there are hints that they might consider more aggressive tactics if necessary."
"Those companies, they really can't handle rejections, eh? Their ego is probably bruised," Michael remarked with a hint of a smile.
"They see our Quantum Processor as a major threat to their dominance," Juliet noted."If I were a CEO in one of those companies, I'd too be worried about losing my competitive edge."
"Yeah, I understand their positions. As much as I'd want to patent the quantum processor to protect it, I just can't. It's just carry too much risk, they could potentially copy it, make a small adjustment or derivation to bypass the patent, and still compete directly with us," Michael said, his tone thoughtful. "Which is why we just have to keep it a secret within us.
It's not like we have to patent every technology we invent."
Juliet nodded. "True. We need to be strategic about what we share with the world and what we keep under wraps. Speaking of which, you have a meeting with the San Miguel Corporation this evening at their headquarters in Ortigas. They're interested in discussing a potential collaboration in infrastructure projects."
Michael raised an eyebrow. "San Miguel Corporation, huh? They're a significant player in various industries. This could be an interesting opportunity."
"Yes, it could be a substantial partnership that aligns well with our goals," Juliet said. "Their reach and influence in the Philippines are immense, and a collaboration could open new doors for both companies."
Michael stood up, feeling a surge of determination. "Alright, let's prepare for this meeting."
***
Hours later, in Ortigas, Michael and Juliet arrived at the headquarters of San Miguel Corporation. The towering building was a testament to the company's vast influence and success in various industries.
As they entered the lobby, they were greeted by a team of San Miguel executives who escorted them to the top floor, where the meeting was to be held. The conference room was spacious and modern, with large windows offering a breathtaking view of the cityscape.
The head of San Miguel's delegation, Mr. Antonio Delos Santos, welcomed them warmly. "Mr. Reyes, Ms. Schmidt, it's a pleasure to have you here. We've been looking forward to this meeting."
"Thank you for having us, Mr. Delos Santos," Michael replied, shaking hands firmly. "We're eager to discuss the potential collaboration."
They all took their seats, and after brief introductions, Michael began the discussion. "We at the Reyes Corporation are greatly looking up to San Miguel Corporation as they were at the forefront of developing infrastructure in the Philippines, providing great convenience to Filipinos."
"Thank you, Mr. Reyes," Mr. Delos Santos replied with a nod. "San Miguel Corporation is indeed committed to advancing infrastructure in the Philippines. We are excited about the possibility of collaborating with Retes Corporation."
Michael smiled. "We are particularly interested in your upcoming projects. I've heard about the Skyway Stage 4 and the Allen-Matnog Bridge. These projects align perfectly with our vision of innovation and progress."
Mr. Delos Santos leaned forward, clearly intrigued. "The Skyway Stage 4 is a massive project, crucial for easing traffic congestion in Metro Manila. We estimate that we need at least 150 million dollars in investment to move forward with it."
Michael nodded, absorbing the information. "And what about the Allen-Matnog Bridge?"
"That project will require an additional 100 million dollars," Mr. Delos Santos answered. "It's a key infrastructure development to improve connectivity in the region, facilitating trade and travel."
Michael leaned back in his chair, considering the figures. "A total of 250 million dollars for both projects. It's a significant investment, but one that I believe will yield substantial benefits for both Reyes Corporation and San Miguel Corporation."
Juliet, who had been taking notes, glanced up. "We could structure the investment in phases to ensure smooth progress and address any potential challenges as they arise."
"That's a good approach," Mr. Delos Santos agreed. "We can break down the investment into manageable stages and set milestones to track our progress."
Michael nodded. "I'm interested in investing the amount you're asking for. Let's discuss the details and work out a comprehensive plan."
For the next hour, the two teams delved into the specifics, mapping out a strategic plan for the investments. They discussed timelines, milestones, and key performance indicators to ensure the projects would stay on track.
Mr. Delos Santos provided detailed blueprints and timelines for the Skyway Stage 4 and Allen-Matnog Bridge projects. Michael and Juliet reviewed the plans, asking pertinent questions and suggesting adjustments to optimize the workflow.
After one hour, they reached a consensus on the structure and phases of the investment. With the major details ironed out, it was time to formalize their agreement.
Mr. Delos Santos stood and extended his hand to Michael. "It looks like we have a solid plan. Let's move forward with the formalities."
Michael shook his hand firmly. "Agreed. I'm looking forward to a successful partnership."
The group moved to a more private meeting room where the final contract awaited. The document detailed the investment structure, timelines, and responsibilities of each party. Michael and Juliet reviewed it meticulously, ensuring every detail aligned with their discussions.
Juliet pointed to a section of the contract. "This clause on project milestones is essential. It ensures that each phase meets our agreed standards before moving to the next."
Mr. Delos Santos nodded. "Absolutely. We've made sure to include comprehensive checkpoints to guarantee progress and quality."
Satisfied with the review, Michael picked up the pen. "Alright, let's make it official."
He signed the document with a confident flourish, then handed the pen to Mr. Delos Santos, who added his signature. The moment the ink dried, the room filled with a sense of accomplishment and anticipation for what lay ahead.
"To a fruitful partnership," Mr. Delos Santos said, raising a glass of celebratory champagne that had been brought in by an assistant.
Michael clinked glasses with him. "To innovation and progress."
After the formalities, the teams mingled and discussed the next steps in a more relaxed setting. The atmosphere was filled with optimism as they envisioned the impact of their collaborative efforts on the country's infrastructure.