Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-05-09 06:22Core Insights - The article highlights the remarkable journey of Jiang Weiping, known as the "Lithium King," who transformed Tianqi Lithium from a small company into a global lithium giant over a decade [2][11] Group 1: Strategic Decisions - In 2012, Jiang Weiping took decisive action to prevent Rockwood from acquiring Talison, a major lithium supplier, which would have severely impacted China's lithium resource supply [3][4] - Jiang leveraged his entire fortune and borrowed extensively to acquire 19.99% of Talison, becoming its second-largest shareholder and successfully blocking the acquisition [4][6] Group 2: Global Expansion - After securing Talison, Jiang set his sights on SQM, a leading lithium producer in Chile, and in 2017, he acquired 23.77% of SQM for $4.066 billion (approximately 259 billion RMB) [6][7] - The acquisition of SQM significantly enhanced Tianqi Lithium's global influence in the lithium market, despite the financial risks involved [6][7] Group 3: Crisis Management - Following a downturn in lithium prices and financial difficulties, Tianqi Lithium faced severe challenges, including a loss of nearly 60 billion RMB in 2019 [7][8] - Jiang demonstrated resilience by exploring various financing options and successfully brought in IGO as a strategic investor, allowing the company to stabilize [8][10] Group 4: Long-term Vision - Jiang's acquisitions were not only reactive but also strategic, aimed at securing China's long-term lithium resource needs amid growing demand in the renewable energy sector [10][11] - His foresight and ability to navigate through adversity exemplify the spirit of entrepreneurship, contributing significantly to the development of China's lithium industry [11]