I'm The King of Business & Technology in the Modern World-Chapter 76: Another Company to Enter

The days following Matthew's brief break had been calm but productive. The world was still grappling with the pandemic, but signs of recovery were emerging. Countries were easing lockdowns, businesses were reopening, and most importantly, people were starting to return to malls and commercial spaces.

Matthew had spent his time away reflecting on Sentinel Systems' next move. He knew that timing was everything. If Sentinel solidified its partnership with SM Prime before the full economic recovery took shape, they would be in the perfect position to capitalize on the post-pandemic boom.

The first sign that things were shifting in their favor came through an email from SM Prime's board of directors. Angel entered Matthew's office, a rare smirk playing on her lips as she placed her tablet in front of him.

"They've made a decision," she announced.

Matthew raised an eyebrow as he picked up the device and read the email. The message was short, but it was exactly what he wanted to see.

Sentinel Systems is officially granted a board seat in SM Prime Holdings.

Matthew exhaled slowly, letting the reality sink in. They had done it.

Angel sat across from him, crossing her legs as she tapped on her screen. "They're framing this as a strategic partnership. Officially, Sentinel will serve as a technology consultant for SM Prime's expansion efforts."

Matthew nodded, already expecting as much. "It's a way for them to ease us into the company without making it look like they've handed over influence to an outsider."

Daniel entered the room, a cup of coffee in hand. "So, it's official?"

Matthew held up the tablet. "We're in."

Daniel let out a low whistle. "That makes us partners with the biggest company in the Philippines. Not bad for a tech firm that started in cybersecurity."

Angel scrolled through her data. "Their stock has started recovering as well. It hit PHP 30 per share today. We entered at an average of PHP 26 per share, meaning we're already in the green."

Matthew smirked. "It's only the beginning."

September 2020 – The Partnership Begins

With Sentinel's board seat secured, the next step was formalizing their role in SM Prime's long-term strategy. The first board meeting with Sentinel in attendance was scheduled for early September. Unlike their previous calls, this one would be held in person.

The boardroom inside SM Prime's headquarters was a sleek, minimalist space overlooking Manila's skyline. As Matthew and Angel walked in, the energy in the room was different. The last time they had spoken to SM Prime's leadership, it had been a cautious discussion. Now, there was an understanding—Sentinel wasn't just an investor. They were here to stay.

Henry Sy Jr. greeted Matthew with a nod. "Mr. Borja. Welcome to your first board meeting."

Matthew shook his hand. "Glad to be here, Mr. Sy."

The other board members acknowledged his presence, some with polite smiles, others with reserved expressions. Jeffrey Lim gestured for everyone to take their seats as the meeting began.

"As you all know," Henry Sy Jr. started, "Sentinel Systems has officially become one of SM Prime's most significant institutional shareholders. Moving forward, we'll be working closely with them on initiatives that will strengthen our company's long-term resilience."

There was a round of nods, but one of the older board members, a man named Victor Tan, spoke up. "We still need to be cautious. Sentinel is a technology company, but SM Prime is a real estate giant. I'd like to understand exactly how their expertise will benefit us beyond digital transformation."

Matthew leaned forward, his tone composed but confident. "I understand the concern, Mr. Tan. But let me be clear—this isn't just about digital transformation. The world is changing. The post-pandemic landscape won't be the same as before. Consumer habits have shifted, and technology is no longer just an optional upgrade—it's the foundation of every industry, including real estate."

Jeffrey Lim nodded slightly, but Victor still looked unconvinced. "And how does Sentinel fit into that equation?"

Matthew smiled slightly. "Let's start with data. Right now, SM Prime operates based on traditional market analysis—sales trends, foot traffic estimates, and tenant performance reports. But what if we could predict these numbers with AI-driven analytics? What if we could identify which stores will struggle before they fail? What if we could adjust mall layouts in real-time based on consumer behavior?"

Some of the board members exchanged glances. Henry Sy Jr. folded his hands together. "Go on."

Matthew continued. "Sentinel's AI can integrate with your existing systems to provide real-time insights. We can track foot traffic through smart sensors, analyze spending patterns, and even use AI to optimize mall layouts. The result? Higher tenant retention, improved consumer experience, and more efficient use of commercial spaces."

Victor still looked skeptical, but Jeffrey Lim seemed intrigued. "And cybersecurity?"

Angel stepped in. "With the rise of e-commerce, digital transactions are increasing. SM Prime's properties will need to enhance cybersecurity, especially for online payments, tenant data management, and internal financial transactions. Sentinel can provide enterprise-grade security solutions that will ensure SM Prime is protected from cyber threats."

Henry Sy Jr. nodded thoughtfully. "So, your proposal is that Sentinel becomes our technology backbone."

Matthew nodded. "Exactly. You already dominate real estate and retail. But with Sentinel, SM Prime won't just recover from the pandemic—it will lead the industry into the next era."

There was a brief silence before Jose Sio, the chairman, spoke. "That's an ambitious vision, Mr. Borja."

Matthew smirked. "So is building the largest commercial empire in the Philippines. And yet, SM Prime did it."

A small chuckle rippled through the room. Even Victor seemed less resistant.

Henry Sy Jr. exhaled. "Alright. We'll move forward cautiously. Sentinel will begin working with our strategy team to identify priority areas for technology integration."

Matthew nodded. "That's all I ask."

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September 15, 2020 – Signs of Recovery

Two weeks after the meeting, Sentinel's partnership with SM Prime was already showing signs of success. The stock continued climbing, reaching PHP 33 per share. Malls had begun reopening at higher capacities, and foot traffic was steadily increasing.

Angel entered Matthew's office with the latest reports. "We made the right move," she said, setting her tablet down.

Matthew scanned the data. "Retail sales are rising. Consumer confidence is improving. Looks like we got in at the perfect time."

Daniel walked in, grinning. "People are talking about the Sentinel-SM Prime partnership. Investors see us as a tech-driven force, not just another shareholder."

Matthew leaned back, satisfied. "Good. That's exactly what I wanted."

Angel glanced at him. "So, what's next?"

Matthew smirked. "Now? We let things play out. We've secured our stake. We're on the board. SM Prime is rebounding. Now, we sit back and watch our investment grow."

For the first time in months, Sentinel wasn't fighting for control—it had already won. The next phase wasn't about taking over. It was about guiding SM Prime into the future, and in doing so, securing Sentinel's own legacy in the process.

One thing was certain: Matthew Borja had just cemented his place in the highest echelons of Philippine business. And he won't stop there. He still have billion of dollars in his disposal and he'll want more stakes in the largest companies in the Philippines.

"Reach out to San Miguel Corporation, I too want to become a part of it."