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."

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.