Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren) novel Chapter 704

Andrew sneered. "I call you an idiot, and you're still trying to argue. Amazing. You've got sky-high production costs, and now you're planning to get into a price war with competitors who can undercut you without breaking a sweat. The moment they lower their prices, your so-called strategy will collapse like a house of cards."

Michael opened his mouth to respond but came up empty. His face darkened as he struggled to find a comeback.

The other executives exchanged uneasy glances. They wanted to defend Michael's point, but they simply did not have the knowledge to counter Andrew's logic.

Even Tiana's eyes narrowed slightly as she mentally reviewed the Pharmaceutical Division's current situation. Andrew's analysis had exposed a glaring flaw she had not fully considered before.

"All right, Mr. Lloyd," Tiana said, leaning slightly forward. "Since you see the problem so clearly, what would you suggest we do to gain an advantage?"

Andrew stretched and gave a lazy yawn. "The solution's pretty obvious. Either reduce production costs or develop high-quality products that nobody else can replicate. Everybody knows there's only one guaranteed path to massive profits—offering something no one else can. In other words, what you need is… a monopoly."

The word seemed to suck the air out of the room. A monopoly?

Rhodes Corporation did not have the power to pull that off. In fact, few companies did. Even the wealthiest families hesitated to claim control over an entire industry or market.

Andrew smirked as he took in their stunned faces. "Since we're on the topic, let me give Mr. Rhodes and the rest of you 'high-level experts' a free lesson."

Michael's face darkened further.

The executives bristled at the condescending tone but did not dare speak up. Andrew had already left them speechless once, and nobody wanted to step into the line of fire again.

Even Tiana shifted in her chair, her curiosity piqued.