The Tyrant Billionaire

Because these companies had provided significant military supplies, some of their car factories were directly seized and confiscated by U.S. forces. Among the 300 Japanese military enterprises Hardy's group acquired were several automotive plants, all of which were now under his control.

Upon learning this, Toyoda became anxious. He was well aware of the advanced state of the American automotive industry, and Japan's current industry was no match. If American conglomerates were to reopen these factories in Japan, Toyota would be crushed.

Mr. Hardy had mentioned before that Japan's future would focus on consumer goods and light industry, with Japanese car factories serving as component suppliers for U.S. factories.

It seemed that the American conglomerates weren't particularly interested in partnering with Toyota. When Toyoda approached them about selling shares, hoping to sell 30% in exchange for $2 million in capital and technical support, he was coldly dismissed.

"They took one look at my proposal and returned it, saying, 'We're not interested in your terms. Go back and reconsider.'" Toyoda explained how just one sentence had sent him away.

After thinking it over for an entire day, Toyoda decided to approach Hardy, hoping to convince him to support Toyota. After hearing Toyoda's story, Hardy's expression remained unchanged.

At this point, Toyota was far from being the powerhouse it would become. It couldn't even compete with other Japanese car companies, let alone American ones.

"Mr. Hardy, I hope to gain your support. If we can merge with some of those confiscated factories, Toyota could quickly become Japan's largest car company. I guarantee we will bring you significant profits," Toyoda said earnestly.

Hardy found it amusing. Was this the start of internal competition, with plans to devour the competition?

"What's your offer?" Hardy asked.

"I'm willing to give up 40% of our shares in exchange for $2 million and the merger with other factories," Toyoda replied.

Hardy shook his head.
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"Those factories each have their own specific purposes. As for complete vehicle manufacturing, we hadn't planned on keeping it. However, if you're interested, I can arrange for a few companies to acquire Toyota's shares, allowing your family to retain 30%."

"Three million dollars in cash and a $3 million low-interest loan. I can guarantee that Toyota will gain access to advanced manufacturing techniques and production lines from American car companies."

"Toyota will abandon all other factory operations, keeping only the passenger car, van and F.J. Series production lines, and will not be involved in any sectors that could aid military production."

"If you agree to these terms, talk to the delegation. They will handle the details. If not, you're free to manage your company as you see fit."

Toyoda could hear the firmness in Hardy's tone, as well as the underlying suggestion to leave. He stood up, bowed, and took his leave.

"I will seriously consider this, Mr. Hardy."

Hardy instructed his assistant to see Toyoda out and to inform the delegation of his decision.

Three million dollars in acquisition funds.

Three million dollars in low-interest loans.

This money wouldn't come from any other bank but from the $570 million he had brought with him. That aid fund was precisely for this purpose.

Hardy had granted the delegation the authority to offer any Japanese company accepting an acquisition by the seven major conglomerates not only access to American technology but also varying amounts of support funds in the form of low-interest loans.

A five-year term.

Interest so low it could be practically ignored.

This one condition alone would entice countless companies.

They were living a hard life now. The seven major conglomerates brought them what they desired most: capital, low-interest loans, sales channels, and access to American technology.

What was this?

This was like a father's love.

Whatever you lack, we have it. All you have to do is behave and obey.

Under such conditions, how many companies could resist? On one side were favorable terms; on the other, refusal meant certain death. What would you choose?

As for the Bushido spirit? Forget it. Businessmen only believe in the spirit of making money, and even those rare businessmen who still held onto that spirit didn't really have a choice. The country was already occupied, so what's the point of clinging to some ideology?

Many companies chose to surrender.

Time passed quickly, and before they knew it, it was late September. Hardy and his group had been in Japan for over a month, and during that time, the delegation had acquired more than 300 companies.

These acquisitions spanned various industries, including power, water supply, electronics, and automobiles. Hardy had extended a total of $350 million in low-interest loans.

With the influx of capital, these companies rapidly resumed production. Many of the skilled workers returned to their jobs, resolving the unemployment of tens of thousands of laid-off workers.

Having a job meant earning money, and with money, they could afford food.

It had to be admitted.

The Japanese were incredibly hardworking, much more so than Americans. They worked without complaint. Jobs were hard to find now, so everyone cherished their work.

Factory workers worked overtime without slacking off, fearing they might be fired by the managers.

Meanwhile, in American factories, workers would strike at the drop of a hat.

The unions had spoiled the workers, and many factories spent half the year dealing with strikes. Hardy honestly couldn't tell whether the unions were a good or bad influence. On one hand, they safeguarded workers' rights, but on the other, they pushed factories to move abroad, depriving workers of more opportunities and leaving them jobless.

Moreover, American workers wages were more than ten times higher than those in Japan. From the perspective of the conglomerate managers, these Japanese wages were negligible.

Hardy Shipping had re-established a shipping company in Japan. He transferred the remaining cargo ships under his control, instantly making it the largest shipping company in Japan.

By this point, Hardy had completely absorbed the post-war military cargo ships he had acquired from the U.S.