吴晓波频道·2026-02-17 00:29Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the complex narratives of three prominent Chinese entrepreneurs born in the Year of the Horse, highlighting their distinct paths and contributions to China's industrial upgrade amidst economic transformations. Group 1: Wang Jianlin - Wang Jianlin, once a three-time richest man in China, has faced significant challenges, including asset sales and debt issues, reflecting the broader real estate cycle in China [3][6][7] - He has sold over 85 Wanda Plaza locations and exited various sectors, including sports and film, to manage debt and maintain cash flow [7] - Despite his struggles, Wang demonstrates resilience and strategic asset management to preserve Wanda's credit standing [6][7] Group 2: Zhong Shanshan - Zhong Shanshan, founder of Nongfu Spring, became the richest man in China for the fourth time, with a net worth of 530 billion yuan, setting a new record [8][9] - He faced public scrutiny but actively addressed it through media engagement and product innovation, launching "green bottle" water to capture market share [9][10] - Zhong's wealth is primarily derived from the bottled water business, which benefits from a stable cash flow and high profit margins, contrasting with the volatility of tech sectors [10] Group 3: Wang Chuanfu - Wang Chuanfu, founder of BYD, represents the rise of Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers, with BYD's sales projected to reach approximately 2.26 million units in 2025, a 27.86% increase year-on-year [14] - The shift in perception of BYD from being underestimated to recognized as a strong competitor by global leaders like Elon Musk illustrates the changing dynamics in the EV market [13][14] - Wang's leadership reflects China's ambition to reshape global supply chains and technology leadership in the automotive sector [16] Group 4: Demographic Insights - The article notes that 47.5% of the Horse zodiac billionaires are aged 57, representing a significant portion of the wealth accumulation in sectors like new energy and technology [17] - The younger generation of entrepreneurs, born in 1978, is characterized by their digital-savvy approaches, leveraging the internet and technology for business growth [24] - The article highlights the generational divide, with older entrepreneurs having built wealth in traditional industries, while younger ones thrive in digital and tech-driven markets [24][25]