Southern Business Review

Author: Brady Ziegler

Intel’s New CEO Could Score Over $400 Million—If He Pulls Off the Ultimate Turnaround
Intel (INTC) is throwing down the gauntlet for its new CEO, Lip-Bu Tan, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. In an era dominated by supply chain nightmares, cutthroat competition, and the AI revolution, Intel is placing its bets on a leadership shake-up. The freshly appointed chief executive could pocket over $400 million in stock grants, but there’s a twist—he’ll need to triple Intel’s stock price and stake $25 million of his own cash to unlock that massive payday.

It’s a daring compensation package that mirrors Intel’s high-risk, high-reward situation. Once the undisputed king of the chip world, Intel has lost its crown to Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSM) and Nvidia (NVDA) in recent years. Now, with a roadmap that includes aggressive foundry expansion, a sharpened focus on AI chips, and a fierce battle to regain manufacturing supremacy, Intel is on a mission to claw its way back to the top.

The High-Stakes Compensation Package: Play Big or Go Home

Intel’s board has designed a deal that couldn’t be clearer: the CEO’s financial fortune is tied to the company’s long-term stock performance—no easy guarantees here.

Here’s the breakdown:

• The Jackpot: If Intel’s stock surges from its current price of around $40 to $120—a near triple—the CEO could unlock stock grants worth more than $400 million over the next five years.

• Skin in the Game: This deal isn’t all about stock options—it requires the CEO to personally invest at least $25 million in Intel stock. The incentive? Aligning his interests with those of the shareholders.

• Base Salary? The base pay is almost an afterthought. The real money lies in stock-based rewards.

This structure is reminiscent of Elon Musk’s 2018 Tesla (TSLA) compensation plan, where the CEO’s payout depended on the company hitting audacious stock price and market cap milestones. But there’s one key difference: Musk was running a momentum-driven company. Intel’s new CEO? He’s stepping into a turnaround mission.

Intel’s Monumental Task

For this CEO to cash in on that eye-popping compensation, he’ll need to overcome serious obstacles:
1. The AI Arms Race: AI has redefined the semiconductor space, and Nvidia has emerged as the undisputed king of AI chips. Intel’s counterattack involves pushing into AI-optimized processors, but the battle is fierce, and its rivals have a major head start.
2. Foundry Ambitions: Intel isn’t just about making chips for itself—it’s aiming to manufacture chips for others, taking on TSMC and Samsung in a cutthroat foundry battle. The prize? A potential multi-billion-dollar revenue stream. The risk? Billions in sunk costs if it fails.
3. Regaining Process Leadership: Intel has been plagued by manufacturing delays, allowing competitors to surge ahead. Now, the company claims it will reclaim leadership with its ambitious “five nodes in four years” roadmap. But execution risks remain.
4. The Market’s Doubt: Even if Intel executes flawlessly, it needs to win back the market’s faith. The stock has lagged behind the broader semiconductor sector, and convincing investors to bet on Intel’s turnaround won’t happen overnight.
The Road to $120: A Herculean Task, But Not Impossible

Tripling Intel’s stock price is no small feat. But if the new CEO can deliver, here’s what it’ll take:

• Revenue Surge: The growth engines? AI, next-gen chips, and a booming foundry business. Those need to fire on all cylinders for Intel to see significant top-line growth.

• Profitability Boost: Intel needs to get its manufacturing costs under control and restore profitability.

• Market Share Reclaim: Intel isn’t just fighting to hold its ground—it needs to take market share back from its fierce competitors.

It’s a tall order. But if Intel’s new CEO can pull it off, he’ll walk away with one of the most lucrative executive payouts in corporate history.

Bottom Line: Intel’s new CEO’s compensation plan is more than just a financial incentive—it’s a litmus test for whether Intel can stage an epic comeback. The board is betting that the right incentives will fuel a massive turnaround. Now, all eyes are on whether the CEO can execute under the pressure.
March 18, 2025
Xiaohongshu: The “Little Red Book” That’s Writing a New Chapter in Social Media
As TikTok’s fate hangs in the balance, savvy social media users are turning to a vibrant new platform: Xiaohongshu. This Chinese social media app, often referred to as “Little Red Book,” is rapidly gaining traction, offering a unique blend of community, content, and commerce that’s capturing the attention of a global audience.

While comparisons to Instagram and Pinterest are inevitable, Xiaohongshu offers a distinctive experience. Imagine a platform where product reviews meet lifestyle blogging, infused with a strong sense of community and a dash of aspirational living. Users flock to Xiaohongshu to share their experiences with everything from the latest skincare trends to hidden travel gems, fostering a culture of authentic recommendations and genuine engagement.

But what’s driving Xiaohongshu’s recent surge in popularity? The answer, in part, lies in the uncertainty surrounding TikTok. With a potential ban looming, users are seeking alternative platforms to express their creativity and connect with like-minded individuals. Xiaohongshu, with its emphasis on genuine sharing and community building, provides a welcome refuge.

“I was hesitant to try a new app,” admits Sarah, a former TikTok enthusiast who recently joined Xiaohongshu. “But I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how welcoming and supportive the community is. It feels like a breath of fresh air.”

More than just a social media platform, Xiaohongshu is a thriving ecosystem of content and commerce. Users seamlessly transition from discovering new products to making purchases, all within the app. This integrated approach has made Xiaohongshu a favorite among brands seeking to connect with engaged consumers.

For businesses, Xiaohongshu presents a unique opportunity. The platform’s emphasis on authentic reviews and user-generated content provides valuable insights into consumer preferences. By actively engaging with the Xiaohongshu community, businesses can build brand loyalty and drive sales.

As Xiaohongshu continues its global expansion, it’s poised to become a major player in the social media landscape. With its unique blend of community, content, and commerce, Xiaohongshu offers a compelling alternative for users seeking a more meaningful and engaging online experience.

Key Takeaways for Southern Businesses:
- Explore Xiaohongshu as a new marketing channel: The platform’s engaged user base and integrated commerce features offer significant potential for businesses.
- Focus on authenticity and community engagement: Xiaohongshu users value genuine recommendations and interactions.
- Monitor the platform’s growth: Xiaohongshu’s rising popularity presents both opportunities and challenges for businesses.
The “Little Red Book” is writing a new chapter in social media history. Will your business be a part of it?
January 15, 2025
The Quiet Generosity of Lesser-Known Billionaire Philanthropists

We are traditionally captivated by the wealth and influence of high-profile billionaires, it’s easy to overlook the quieter, more understated acts of generosity happening in the shadows of fame. While figures like Bill Gates and Warren Buffett dominate the narrative of philanthropy, there is a cadre of lesser-known billionaires whose contributions, though less publicized, are no less transformative. These individuals represent the best of humanity’s potential, using their wealth not as a display of power but as a tool for profound and lasting change.

At Southern Business Review, we pride ourselves on delving beyond surface-level stories, spotlighting leaders whose work often goes unnoticed. As we expand our focus to include philanthropy, it is only fitting to celebrate ten billionaires whose giving reshapes lives, uplifts communities, and addresses the world’s most pressing issues.

Philanthropy Rooted in Hard Work and Vision

Gina Rinehart, Australia’s mining magnate, is a prime example of philanthropy born from grit and determination. With a net worth of $25 billion, Rinehart’s contributions through the Hancock Prospecting Foundation have transformed rural Australia. By focusing on agriculture, education, and health care, she addresses systemic issues while empowering local communities. Her belief that “success comes from hard work, not entitlement” reflects her philosophy of enabling others to thrive.

Similarly, Pierre Omidyar, the founder of eBay, has quietly become one of the most influential philanthropists of our time. Through his Omidyar Network, he has donated over $1 billion to initiatives that promote human rights, economic opportunity, and the responsible use of technology. For Omidyar, the intersection of profit and purpose is where real change happens. His work amplifies the voices of the marginalized and equips them with tools to succeed.

Empowering Women and the Underserved

Sara Blakely, the self-made billionaire behind Spanx, exemplifies the impact of empowering women. Through the Sara Blakely Foundation, she has invested over $250 million in women’s education, entrepreneurship, and leadership development. A member of the Giving Pledge, Blakely’s efforts extend globally, providing opportunities for women to realize their potential. Her philosophy is simple yet powerful: “I feel a deep sense of responsibility to support women in achieving their potential.”

Lynne Schusterman shares a similar commitment to empowerment through education and social justice. As chair of the Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation, she has directed her wealth toward funding leadership programs and advancing racial equity. Her belief that “empowerment begins with opportunity” has driven initiatives that support women, girls, and underserved communities, creating lasting change in the process.

Redefining Philanthropy in Unique Arenas

Jeff Yass and Shari Arison have taken unconventional approaches to their philanthropy, reflecting their personal philosophies and passions. Yass, with a net worth of $12 billion, focuses on education reform and criminal justice. His support for the Classical Liberal Institute and similar organizations has reshaped conversations about policy and access to quality education.

Arison, on the other hand, blends her commitment to social justice and sustainability with her influence as a major shareholder of Arison Group. Her philanthropic projects have brought housing, education, and environmental solutions to life, particularly in her home country of Israel. Both Yass and Arison demonstrate that philanthropy can be as diverse as the billionaires themselves, rooted in their values and expertise.

Advancing Science, Sustainability, and the Arts

Philanthropy often intersects with innovation, as seen in the work of James Simons and Kirsten Rausing. Simons, a brilliant mathematician and founder of Renaissance Technologies, has donated billions through the Simons Foundation to advance research in autism, cancer, and mathematics. His belief that “knowledge is the foundation of progress” underscores his commitment to science as a force for good.

Rausing, heir to the Tetra Laval fortune, directs her efforts toward environmental conservation and animal welfare. Her work ensures that biodiversity and cultural heritage are preserved for future generations. Her quiet dedication to sustainability offers a model for those who wish to create a greener, more equitable world.

Building a Legacy Through Purposeful Giving

Courtney Jordan and Tim Boyle, though differing in their industries, share a common vision of philanthropy as a means to create lasting impact. Jordan, the founder of Neyius, through the Courtney Jordan Foundation he has dedicated his wealth to fostering entrepreneurship and sustainable development in the developing world. His support for the arts further reflects his belief that “true wealth lies in how we use our resources to uplift others.”

Boyle, the CEO of Columbia Sportswear, has taken a localized approach, supporting youth programs, healthcare, and environmental initiatives. Despite his relatively low public profile, his contributions have left an indelible mark on both local communities and global causes.

The Legacy of Quiet Philanthropy

These ten billionaires illustrate that philanthropy is not about recognition but about responsibility. Their work, often carried out behind the scenes, addresses critical issues ranging from education and healthcare to environmental sustainability and social justice. Together, they remind us that wealth is not just a measure of success but an opportunity to create a better world.

At Southern Business Review, we believe stories like these deserve a platform. As we continue to chronicle the world’s most impactful business leaders, our commitment remains rooted in uncovering the narratives that inspire and transform. While these billionaires may not dominate the headlines, their legacies of quiet philanthropy prove that real change doesn’t always require a spotlight—it requires action.

January 8, 2025
Stanley Druckenmiller Shifts Focus Amid Economic Concerns

When inflation surged two years ago, billionaire investor Stanley Druckenmiller predicted it would decline—a forecast he got right. However, his concern over the economy proved unfounded. Now, Druckenmiller admits to shifting priorities, expressing more worry about inflation than economic growth. He cautions that the Federal Reserve may have declared victory over inflation prematurely.

Despite his tempered confidence, Druckenmiller is making significant investment moves. His firm, Duquesne Family Office, recently acquired 1.4 million shares of Teva Pharmaceutical (TEVA), worth $30.3 million. Teva’s stock doubled in 2024 following a favorable opioid litigation settlement and strategic growth in brand-name drugs.

By Q3 2024, Duquesne Family Office’s top holdings included Natera ($452 million), Coupang ($287 million), Coherent ($264 million), Woodward ($181 million), and Seagate Technology ($179 million). Druckenmiller also shed more than $2.5 billion in stocks last year, including Nvidia and nearly all of Palantir, signaling a significant portfolio reshuffle.

In an interview with Nicolai Tangen of Norges Bank Investment Management, Druckenmiller revealed his main concern: whether the Federal Reserve has cut interest rates too soon. As he continues to adapt to evolving economic conditions, Druckenmiller remains a key player to watch in the financial world.

January 2, 2025
Behind Closed Doors: Trump and Dimon’s Secret Talks Shaping a Second Term Agenda

In a recent report, FOX Business correspondent Charlie Gasparino revealed that President-elect Donald Trump and JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon have been engaged in secret discussions for months regarding Trump’s policy agenda for a potential second term. According to sources close to Trump’s transition team, Dimon has served as a key “sounding board” for Trump, advising on critical issues such as reducing government spending, tax policy, trade, and banking regulations. One source even described Trump’s admiration for Dimon as a “man crush,” further underlining the close rapport between the two.

Despite these ongoing discussions, neither JPMorgan Chase nor the Trump transition team has responded to requests for comment regarding the talks. The revelation comes just two weeks after Trump publicly announced that Dimon, who runs the largest bank in the U.S., would not be joining his upcoming administration, effectively putting an end to speculation that Dimon might be nominated for the role of Treasury secretary.

In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump acknowledged Dimon’s contributions but made it clear that he would not be part of his administration. “I respect Jamie Dimon, of JPMorgan Chase, greatly, but he will not be invited to be a part of the Trump Administration,” Trump wrote. “I thank Jamie for his outstanding service to our country!”

This announcement followed Trump’s naming of Key Square founder Scott Bessent as his pick for Treasury secretary. Despite their reported private discussions, Trump has been openly critical of Dimon in the past, including calling him a “Highly overrated Globalist” on Truth Social. Earlier this year, Trump had floated the idea of considering Dimon for Treasury secretary in a second term but later walked back those comments.

Dimon, for his part, has had a complicated relationship with Trump. Although he condemned the January 6th Capitol attack, he has also praised some of Trump’s positions and policies. Dimon acknowledged that Trump had been “kind of right” about NATO, immigration, and China, and praised his economic policies, including trade tax reforms. Dimon’s candid and balanced remarks appear to have resonated with Trump, who reportedly “greatly appreciated” Dimon’s honest assessment.

While Dimon did not endorse any candidate in this year’s presidential election, his ongoing influence and his role as an advisor to Trump indicate the complex, evolving relationship between the business world and politics. The continued private conversations between Dimon and Trump suggest that, even without a formal position in the administration, Dimon may remain a significant figure in shaping future policy discussions under a second Trump term.

November 30, 2024
Jersey Mike’s CEO Joins the Billionaire’s Club After $8 Billion Deal with Blackstone

Peter Cancro, the long-time CEO of Jersey Mike’s Subs, has officially joined the ranks of billionaires, solidifying his place among the world’s wealthiest. This milestone follows a groundbreaking deal with private equity firm Blackstone that values the fast-casual sandwich chain at an impressive $8 billion.
Jersey Mike’s announced Tuesday that Blackstone will acquire majority ownership of the chain, which boasts over 3,000 locations across the U.S. and ranks as the second-largest sub sandwich brand in the country, trailing only Subway. The deal, expected to close in early 2025, positions Cancro to retain a significant equity stake and continue leading the company he has nurtured for decades.

With this transaction, Cancro’s net worth skyrocketed to approximately $7.54 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. This valuation places him near high-profile names such as “Shark Tank” investor Mark Cuban and hedge fund manager Bill Ackman.

Cancro’s journey with Jersey Mike’s began at just 14 years old, when he started working at Mike’s Subs, the original sandwich shop in Point Pleasant, New Jersey. Earning $1.75 an hour, Cancro handled everything from wrapping subs to running the cash register—though he was too young to use the meat slicer.

His entrepreneurial spark was ignited when the original owner decided to sell. Encouraged by his mother, Cancro decided to purchase the shop at just 17 years old. Lacking the funds, he turned to his football coach and local banker, Rod Smith, who believed in Cancro’s determination and helped secure the financing.

In 1987, Cancro began franchising the business, and by 1991, despite economic challenges, the chain had grown to 35 locations. The recession made further expansion difficult, but Cancro’s perseverance ensured the brand’s continued growth.

Today, Jersey Mike’s stands as a testament to Cancro’s vision and leadership. The brand’s focus on fresh ingredients and community connections has resonated with customers, propelling its growth to over 3,000 locations. The $8 billion valuation cements Jersey Mike’s as a dominant force in the fast-casual dining industry and underscores the power of its business model in a competitive market.

For Cancro, the Blackstone deal is not the end but a new chapter in his story. Maintaining an active role in the company ensures his influence will continue shaping Jersey Mike’s future. As Cancro reflects on his journey from teenage sandwich maker to billionaire CEO, his story inspires entrepreneurs across the business landscape, particularly in the South’s burgeoning food and hospitality sectors.

Cancro’s rise underscores the value of grit, determination, and an unwavering belief in one’s vision—proving that sometimes, all it takes is a handshake and a dream to build a multibillion-dollar empire.

November 18, 2024
Cash is King Again: Why Warren Buffett is Hoarding Billions Amid a Frothy Market

Warren Buffett, famously known as the “Oracle of Omaha,” is sitting on a staggering $325 billion in liquid assets, signaling caution as broader markets continue to reach new heights. Through his conglomerate, Berkshire Hathaway, Buffett holds over $288 billion in U.S. Treasury Bills—a haven asset often favored in times of market uncertainty. While Wall Street is awash with confidence and record-breaking valuations, Buffett seems to be adhering to his long-standing advice: “Be fearful when others are greedy.”

Buffett’s massive cash reserve is noteworthy, particularly in the face of soaring corporate valuations. Historically, Berkshire Hathaway’s cash holdings have either indicated that Buffett is waiting for undervalued opportunities or hedging against an anticipated downturn. Right now, he appears to be leaning toward the latter. His substantial investment in U.S. Treasury Bills, which currently offer around 5% returns due to Federal Reserve rate hikes, further signals a defensive strategy—avoiding market risks while still earning a steady yield.

This caution contrasts sharply with broader market trends. According to a recent Goldman Sachs report, cash holdings among S&P 500 companies have fallen nearly 20% over the last year, with companies investing aggressively in stock buybacks and expansion. Buffett, however, seems unwilling to chase the inflated valuations of the current market. His decision to accumulate cash reflects a belief that the market is “frothy” and that prudent investors should steer clear of overvalued stocks.

Economic studies, including Nobel laureate Robert Shiller’s analysis of market cycles, suggest that high stock prices relative to underlying earnings often point to lower long-term returns. Shiller’s cyclically adjusted price-to-earnings (CAPE) ratio, which has been elevated in recent years, indicates that the market could be overvalued. Buffett, who has demonstrated a keen eye for these signals, likely views the current market with skepticism. His prior acquisitions—such as his investments in Goldman Sachs and General Electric during the 2008 financial crisis—underscore his willingness to wait for the right timing to make major investments at discounted prices.

Berkshire Hathaway’s recent moves paint a picture of strategic caution. Over the last eight quarters, Buffett has been a net seller, reducing his holdings in some of his largest investments, including Apple and Bank of America. While Apple remains a significant part of Berkshire’s portfolio, Buffett has trimmed his position, signaling a reluctance to hold onto tech stocks that have become increasingly overvalued. In the first half of 2024 alone, Berkshire Hathaway sold approximately $13 billion in stock, while reinvesting only $7 billion back into equities—a clear indication of Buffett’s cautious stance.

The tech sector, which has driven much of the recent market rally, is a particular concern. Apple, which surpassed a $3 trillion market cap earlier this year, has seen its valuation exceed traditional metrics, making it an ideal time for Buffett to reduce exposure and realize gains before any potential volatility hits.

Buffett’s decision to hold cash, rather than rush into a heated market, suggests that he believes better opportunities will arise soon. History shows that when the market corrects, Buffett and Berkshire Hathaway are quick to seize those opportunities, purchasing undervalued assets that others may be selling in a panic. Past cycles, such as those in 2000 and 2008, highlight Buffett’s ability to capitalize on market downturns and pick up quality assets at a fraction of their peak value.

If a market correction does occur, Buffett’s sizable cash reserve will allow him to make acquisitions without financial constraints. This positions Berkshire Hathaway to target companies that may struggle in a changing economic environment—particularly those in the tech sector, which could face challenges due to rising interest rates and market volatility.

While some may view Buffett’s cautious approach as overly conservative, the data and historical context suggest that it is a wise strategy. By accumulating cash instead of chasing high valuations, Buffett is positioning Berkshire Hathaway to capitalize on the next major buying opportunity. In a market filled with euphoria and optimism, Buffett’s contrarian approach is a reminder that sometimes, the smartest move is to do nothing at all.

November 12, 2024
Elwood Edwards, Iconic Voice of AOL’s “You’ve Got Mail,” Passes Away at 74

Elwood Edwards, the beloved voice behind America Online’s signature “You’ve got mail” greeting, has died at the age of 74. He passed away on Tuesday at his home in New Bern, North Carolina, due to complications from a stroke he suffered late last year, his daughter Heather Edwards confirmed.

In 1989, Edwards recorded AOL’s iconic greeting in his living room, along with other familiar phrases such as “Welcome,” “Goodbye,” and “File’s done.” His brief recording session earned him $200, yet his voice would go on to be heard by millions each day as AOL became a household name. His famous phrase even inspired the title of the 1998 film You’ve Got Mail, starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan.

Despite the immense popularity of his voice, Edwards remained humble and somewhat shy about his fame. “He would still blush anytime someone brought it up,” his daughter shared, adding that while he appreciated the recognition, he never fully adapted to the spotlight.

Edwards’ journey into this iconic role came about through his second wife, Karen, who worked as a customer service representative for the company that eventually became AOL. Hearing about the need for a voice for AOL’s software, Karen suggested her husband. The company was so pleased with his recordings that they didn’t even ask him to visit a studio.

While his face was largely unknown, Edwards’ voice became a memorable part of millions of Americans’ daily lives. For a time, AOL kept his identity a secret, adding to the mystique of the “You’ve got mail” voice. He later shared his story in 1999, joking about his role as a “man of mystery.”

In 2015, Edwards made a guest appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, where he delighted the audience by reprising his famous catchphrase. He also lent his voice to an episode of The Simpsons in 2000, further cementing his role in pop culture.

Edwards began his career in radio before moving to television, where he briefly worked as a weatherman and announcer, though he spent most of his time behind the camera. Reflecting on his career, he’d often say with a smile, “I have a face for radio.” Known for his warm demeanor and quick smile, Edwards later worked at WKYC-TV in Cleveland, where he was affectionately described as a “graphics guru, camera operator, and general jack-of-all-trades.” He also took on freelance voice-over work for radio and TV commercials.

Edwards is survived by his daughter Sallie Edwards, granddaughter Abbie Edwards, and his brother, Bill. A memorial service is planned for Monday in New Bern to honor his life and legacy.

November 9, 2024
Nonprofits Take to the Skies: How Private Jets are Serving Philanthropy

Meet the Nonprofits Using Private Jets for Philanthropic Missions

Private jets aren’t just luxury tools for business or travel—they’re increasingly used in humanitarian efforts led by nonprofits across the U.S. Several organizations are utilizing these aircraft to make a difference in people’s lives.

AeroAngel: Flights for Chronically Ill Children

Founded by pilot and attorney Mark Pestal, AeroAngel provides flights for critically ill children who need specialized care far from home. The Colorado-based nonprofit, supported by volunteer pilots and jet owners, flies young patients and their families to essential medical facilities nationwide.

Corporate Angel Network (CAN): Transport for Cancer Patients

Since 1981, CAN has arranged over 68,000 flights for cancer patients through donated seats on corporate jets. Founded by pilot and cancer survivor Priscilla Blum, CAN coordinates with Fortune 500 companies to offer patients a safe, private, and less stressful way to travel for treatments across the country.

Aerial Angels: Breast Cancer Awareness from the Skies

Aerial Angels, co-founded by Steve and Jamie Oakley, spreads breast cancer awareness with their eye-catching “Pink Jet”—an Aero Vodochody L-39 Albatros in a striking magenta shade. Piloted by Stephanie Goetz, the jet serves as a mobile symbol of early detection, aiming to inspire young women to prioritize their health.

Textron Aviation’s Special Olympics Airlift

Textron Aviation’s “Special Olympics Airlift” brings Special Olympians and support teams to the games. Volunteers offer corporate and private jets, ensuring athletes can travel comfortably and efficiently. Since 1987, this event has helped over 10,000 athletes reach various U.S. events.

A Growing Movement in Philanthropic Aviation

These nonprofits illustrate a growing trend in aviation, where private jets typically associated with luxury are now valuable tools for social good. By providing accessible, compassionate, and direct transport, these organizations offer more than flights—they offer hope, opportunity, and support to those in need.

November 2, 2024
Inside How TV and Global Charity Connections Made Entrepreneur Courtney Jordan a Billionaire

Entrepreneur Courtney Jordan in 2019 speaking at the Toronto Entrepreneurs Conference

Courtney Jordan has sold his Digital Broadcast Network, The Odyssey Channel (ODY). The multimillion-dollar cash and stock deal included all licenses and the entire catalog of shows Jordan purchased in New Zealand that ultimately led to the network’s success, to ErosSTX, the parent company of India streaming giant Eros Now. According to SEC and SEBI records exclusively obtained by SBR, the massive cash and stock deal was finalized in December 2021, includes more than $100 Million in Cash and $265 Million in stock.
The deal gives control of all tv and movie rights Jordan bought at the inception of ODY from various New Zealand production companies to Eros. Back in 2018, when SBR Interviewed Jordan, he said in describing why he made buying the production of New Zealand shows to broadcast in America was a central strategy to the network.

“People look either inside or outside of a box for a solution, I look where there is no box. There is no way I can compete with other networks or even afford to air content known and produced in the states. Once I learned that I could buy genuine shows and their rights to air popular shows, it seemed like the best option”

Jordan did just that in a Lloyds bank backed deal; Jordan began to purchase those rights. Later, expanding into Canada in partnership with the Russian Runa Capital.

The Deal, which was further explored by a research student at Brown University a summary of her findings can be found (here) while on fellowship at Cambridge University in a larger research investigation of black wealth and racism in the 21st Century, noted several deals, art collection, real estate, and holdings reported under shell corporations established by Jordan, (that were set up to be as far removed from connection to Jordan, in what we can tell was an attempt to hide his assets from public interest.) combined make him the newest member of the “three comma club”. *We began this piece after she contacted us after reading our 2018 interview with Jordan.

We made several attempts to reach out to Jordan, whom we have previously interviewed, to no avail. When we reached out to the his company for a comment on this article, we were not provided with a way to contact Jordan directly. Every attempt to speak directly with Jordan was met with a swift and aggressive, No! What we got instead was a Zoom video chat with Mandee Woodard, EVP of Business Affairs for Neyius, and Mackenzie Robinson, EVP of Philanthropy and Corporate Citizenship. Woodard said on the deal.

“This was part of our strategic plan, in moving toward our goals, of establishing a larger presence in Australia and moving into the energy sector. “

Woodard would not confirm or deny the numbers we obtained; instead redirected to their new projects. Neyius, the last three letters of Jordan’s first and middle name, would serve as the parent company for all of its future endeavors. As well as the new professional social networking company, co-founded by Jordan. Neyius, is currently in beta testing with their new deal with various departments in the governments of Australia, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and New Zealand. We were granted temporary access to the site, and from what we can tell is a combination of a project management tool, LinkedIn, facebook, and Zoom.

Using the in the box approach to marketing, Neyius takes a play from Facebook. When FB started, it only granted access to students, requiring a student email to sign up. Neyius only works with large enterprises and governments, not for free, but rather for a fee, which starts at a staggering $1500 set up fee and $2 to $10 per user fee depending on the size. Neyius requires that each enterprise account have at least 130 employees before being invited to join. From what we could tell, there were already hundreds of thousands of users. Primarily of which were members of Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. When asked for an exact user count, we were told they already had over 1MM.

When pressed on the subject of Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, in relationship to the Courtney Jordan Foundation and reports, they used charity to infiltrate the halls of the governments to pad the company’s pockets. Woodard said that was untrue.

“Business is nothing but relationships.” Woodard said,” When we moved our foundation into Bangladesh more than five years ago, we had no way of knowing where that would go.”

Robinson, at this point, chimed in adding:

“For over a decade, Mr. Jordan has been committed to giving back and helping to lift others up.” Robinson adds, “ though it is policy to not comment on the earnings of the company, what I can confirm is that much of the money earned from the deals will go to reigniting our start-up initiatives around the world. We will continue to provide the necessary resources to help entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh realize their dreams, but also now expanding and even in some places reigniting our start-up initiatives.”

The sale, which has led to the restructuring and transformation of Jordan’s Companies, the eponymous named Courtney Jordan Holdings and Venture Beyond Capital (VENBEYCAP), into Neyius, and it’s new cash flow has put Jordan’s Net Worth at a little over $1 Billion.

February 15, 2022