Weijian Shan Books

Join author Weijian Shan as he recounts one of the most exciting financial deals in history. This true insider's tale details how Newbridge Capital, in 1999, became the first foreign firm to take control of a major Korean bank, which had been severely impacted by the Asian Financial Crisis. The narrative is filled with twists, setbacks, and successes, providing a comprehensive account of the deal and the meticulous efforts required to transform a struggling bank into a thriving institution and a lucrative investment. The story covers various aspects of the buyout, including an insider's perspective on the deal, the national context surrounding it, and the key players involved—from dealmakers and bankers to politicians and regulators. It also analyzes the financial crisis's impact and illustrates how Newbridge revitalized the bank, ultimately orchestrating a remarkable exit that attracted global banking giants. This account is perfect for bankers, private equity professionals, financial analysts, businesspeople, and investors, making it an essential addition for anyone interested in high-stakes deal-making and compelling narratives.

Weijian Shan's memoir offers a profound commentary on China and America, reshaping perceptions of both nations. As a former hard laborer turned prominent financier, Shan's thoughtful and brutally honest narrative reflects a life emblematic of modern China and its connection to America. He vividly recounts the raw human energy and determination to succeed against overwhelming odds. Witnessing the chaos of Mao Zedong's Cultural Revolution, Shan faced immense challenges, including a decade without formal education after being exiled to the Gobi Desert at 15. Despite these hardships, he clung to his dream of learning, ultimately transforming his life from the Gobi to the "People's Republic of Berkeley" and beyond. His journey is an inspiring American success story, infused with humor, insight, and rich detail. This memoir not only humanizes China for American readers but also offers a unique perspective on America through the eyes of an astute observer who achieved the American dream. Former Federal Reserve chair Janet Yellen highlights how Shan's life exemplifies the potential for collaboration between China and the United States, showcasing how their stories intertwine to create a driven individual representative of both nations' true spirits.

Private equity deal-making often remains secretive, but one legendary dealmaker reveals how a failing Chinese financial institution was transformed into a profitable entity without any government support. During the 2008 Great Financial Crisis, while banks in America, Britain, and Europe received government bailouts, one troubled bank in China managed to thrive without such assistance. The transformation was led by a US-based private equity firm, raising questions about how an American firm could take charge of a Chinese bank. This narrative explores the strategies employed to turn a struggling national bank into a robust, successful institution, all while navigating the complex landscape of Chinese regulations. It details the unprecedented steps taken in collaboration with Chinese regulators and the private equity process that followed, ultimately yielding substantial returns for investors in US dollars. Additionally, the story touches on a high-profile lawsuit in the US involving the Chinese bank, a Taiwanese-listed company, and significant implications for the Chinese government. The board, predominantly composed of Chinese businesspeople, included a major US shareholder and an American chairman, driving rapid changes within the organization.