Chapter 212: Contemplating

Juliet sighed, composing herself. This is like another day at work. Michael would always start a new business in a different industry by inventing revolutionary technology to beat competition, especially from major players.

"What industry is it, if you don't mind me asking?" Juliet asked.

Michael hummed in thought before answering. "Juliet, what do you know about the entertainment industry, specifically video games? How much are they worth and what are the popular genres today?"

Juliet blinked, a bit surprised by the shift in topic but quickly regained her composure.

"Well, the video game industry is enormous, Mr. Reyes. It's been growing consistently, especially with the rise of mobile gaming. As for genres, action, adventure, and role-playing games seem to dominate in terms of popularity and revenue."

Michael nodded, processing the information. "Interesting," he murmured. "What are the projections?"

Juliet accessed her tablet and quickly pulled up the latest industry reports. "The global video game market is expected to exceed $200 billion by next year," she explained. "There's significant growth in immersive and augmented reality technologies, which are starting to transform how games are played and experienced."

Michael's interest deepened. "And how about consumer engagement? Any data on that?"

"The average time spent on gaming has increased, especially among adults aged 18 to 35. It's becoming a major form of entertainment across all age groups, comparable to streaming services," Juliet detailed. "Moreover, community and live-streamed gaming events are creating large, interactive audiences. Also...Mr.

Reyes, if you don't mind me adding this but if you are into reading light novels, there is a rising genre where the game takes place in the virtual world."

Michael raised an eyebrow, intrigued by Juliet's addition. "Virtual worlds, you say? That sounds like an interesting take on gaming. Wait, that is genius. Are there any VR games existing currently?"

"Well, there is a lot but it would take a decade or two for the technology to mature to the point where virtual worlds can be fully immersive and interactive on a massive scale," Juliet explained. "However, the foundation is there, and there are already several successful examples of VR games that have captured the market's interest."

"So, there's a gap in the market for a new type of VR game that could offer a more comprehensive, life-like experience? Something that could set a new standard?"

"Exactly," Juliet confirmed. "The current VR games are quite good, but they often lack the depth and connectivity that could make them truly groundbreaking. If you could develop a VR platform that offers a more integrated and realistic experience, it could potentially revolutionize the industry. Assuming you can."

The board members looked at each other through the screens, clearly taken aback by the scale of the offer. Michael proceeded to outline the details of Aegis Pharmaceuticals' proposal, emphasizing the financial aspects and the strategic implications for their companies.

"As you all know, Aegis is one of the leaders in the pharmaceutical industry, and their interest in our operations is a testament to the hard work we've all put into building our companies," Michael continued. "Despite the company being new, Aegis recognized its potential and wanted to leverage it.

Of course, it would take time for our enterprise to reach a point where it'd be a billion-dollar company. I'm suggesting that if we are to sell the company at a significant sum, we will get our cut sooner rather than later. This is something to consider given the volatile nature of our industry."

The board listened intently as Michael outlined the potential benefits of the deal.

"However," Michael added, shifting in his seat to emphasize his next point, "selling now would mean giving up control of the innovations we've developed. We'd be handing over the future of technologies that could redefine medical practice. I need us to weigh these considerations carefully."

He paused to let his words sink in, then continued, "I want to ensure whatever decision we make, we keep the long-term vision of our companies and their contributions to the world in mind. That would be all."

Bridget was the first to ask.

"How did Aegis approach you?"

"By surprise," Michael replied. "Elena Skies, the CEO of Aegis, showed up unannounced at our office with a proposition. It was quite direct and frankly, quite aggressive."

Another board member, Raj, chimed in, "And what are their terms, besides the financial offer? What do they want in return? Full control?"

Michael nodded. "Essentially, yes. They want complete acquisition, which would include control over the direction of our research and development. They've assured me they'd respect the ethos of our work, but you know as well as I do, once we hand over control, our ability to enforce that diminishes."

"It's a lot of money, sure. It would secure a significant return on our investment much sooner than expected. However, considering the potential of our ongoing projects, we could stand to gain much more in the long run if we maintain our independence," shared one of the board members.

"That's right..."

Michael sighed. This is going to be difficult.