Chapter Three: The Cheapest Entrance

A second symbol appeared, shaped like a one. The bill was not telling him to buy the bank. It said something the bank was desperate to sell was worth more than its price. Lanting's loan could be that asset. The next morning Lin wore his only suit to Cape City Bank. After two hours in the lobby, a credit officer gave him three minutes. “Individuals cannot inspect our debt portfolio.” “I represent a potential acquisition consortium.” “Which institution?” “It doesn't have a name yet.” The officer laughed and closed his folder. Lin slid over a page reconstructing Lanting's nine abnormal accounts from memory. “You classified its loan as substandard because cash flow fell and service charges went unpaid.