The Journal.
The Billionaire Caught Between Trump and China
Apr 15, 2025
Rebecca Feng, a reporter for WSJ, dives deep into the significant $22.8 billion deal by billionaire Li Ka-shing to sell stakes in Panama Canal ports. The deal has sparked contrasting reactions, thrilling Donald Trump while infuriating Xi Jinping. Feng highlights the complicated geopolitical dynamics at play, revealing how business decisions intertwine with international relations. She also discusses the challenges Hong Kong tycoons face amid rising political tensions and the impact on foreign investment in China.
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Quick takeaways
- Li Ka-shing's $22.8 billion port deal underscores the complex intersection of business interests and geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and China.
- The backlash from Chinese authorities regarding the deal illustrates the growing importance of political considerations in Hong Kong's business landscape.
Deep dives
Li Ka-shing: The Superman of Investing
Li Ka-shing, a 96-year-old billionaire from Hong Kong, has earned the nickname 'Superman' due to his exceptional business acumen and strategic investments. His journey began in the 1950s, starting with manufacturing plastic flowers, before transitioning to real estate where he capitalized on low land prices in 1960s Hong Kong. He skyrocketed to fame in 1979 by taking over Hutchinson Whampoa, marking a significant milestone as he became the first local to lead a major trading group traditionally run by British nationals. Throughout his career, he has transformed his company, C.K. Hutchison, into a global conglomerate with diverse interests, solidifying his status as Hong Kong's richest man with a fortune of $36 billion.
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