The Amazing son in law Chapter 6976
“Skyline currently operates 29 satellites in orbit. We’ve just partnered with SpaceX, and next month, we will launch three additional Sky satellites alongside their Starlink satellites. Another three satellites are scheduled for the first quarter of next year. Our target is to expand the satellite count to 45 by the end of next year,”
Steve inquired, “What is your current revisiting capability?”
Carl replied, “Typically, we can achieve four to five revisits a day without any issues. In unique situations, we can target specific locations up to twenty times in one day, although this is contingent on the illumination conditions. Our civilian-grade satellites provide excellent accuracy, achieving meter-level precision. However, they require optimal imaging conditions: in low light or nighttime, we often can’t capture valuable data.”
Steve nodded and asked, “Do you capture images every day? Is the data updated daily?”
“Absolutely,” Carl confirmed. “Let our chief technology officer provide you with a more detailed explanation.”
The chief technology officer adjusted his glasses and elaborated, “As our satellite orbits the Earth, it captures images of the areas it passes, following a predetermined path. Each region is assigned a number, and pictures are taken sequentially according to these plots. The images are then sent to the backend for stitching and synthesis. The satellite decides whether to capture images based on lighting, weather, and visibility conditions. As mentioned by our CEO, while our technology and hardware are not as advanced as those used by the US military’s Keyhole satellites, we avoid capturing images during evenings or nighttime, as well as during cloudy or stormy weather. We aim for clear conditions with good lighting, free of clouds or fog. Only images meeting our clarity standards are allowed into the database.”
“Once the images enter the database, they are timestamped. After the security department’s specified period has elapsed, the system automatically replaces earlier footage. Given the vastness of the Earth’s surface, it typically takes us at least two months to conduct a comprehensive and qualified imaging of global land. Consequently, our database can offer users insights into changes across any part of the Earth’s surface over the past decade, available as a paid feature in our proprietary software, which contributes to our revenue.”
Carl added, “Mr. Rothschild, since we’re discussing revenue, let’s have our chief financial officer share our current financial status.”
Steve waved his hand, “No need to rush; I want to know if you have access to the data that the security department requires to be sealed.”
“Yes,” the chief technology officer confirmed. “All satellite-captured data is transmitted to our database on our own server as quickly as possible. The security department mandates that this data remains sealed and confidential until the validity period expires.”
Steve nodded slightly. As long as the data isn’t made public, that was acceptable. It meant that Charlie Wade could access the primary data promptly.
Steve then asked, “If I have a specific location of interest and want the satellite to monitor it closely, is that feasible?”
The chief technology officer responded, “Yes, that is possible. However, frequent requests like this can impact the satellite’s original imaging mission.”
Steve felt reassured. After acquiring this company, he wasn’t focused on making a profit; he primarily wanted Charlie Wade to have convenient access. The most important aspect was keeping the satellites actively rotating. He would prefer that the satellites continuously monitor the areas of interest to Charlie Wade, capturing images around the clock. The company’s existing business model was secondary; he wouldn’t mind if it didn’t generate any revenue.
With that in mind, Steve turned to the CFO and said, “Now, let’s discuss the financial situation.”
The CFO respectfully stated, “Mr. Rothschild, Skyline has successfully completed four rounds of financing, raising a total of $670 million. The latest round occurred at the start of last year, securing $300 million. Our annual revenue last year stood at $230 million, but we recorded a net loss of $50 million. Although this year is still ongoing, we project revenues around $270 million, with an anticipated net loss of $100 million. This loss is primarily due to significant hardware investments this year, which I will detail later when discussing fixed assets. I would also like to cover our cash reserves, external investments, and equity situation. Please feel free to ask any questions at any time.”
Steve gestured dismissively, looking at Carl, and said seriously, “I have limited time. There’s too much detailed information to cover. Let your team contact me later; I’ll outline my acquisition needs, and we can move directly to the main issues. How does that sound?”
Carl immediately agreed, “Absolutely, we’ll follow your timeline.”
“Great,” Steve nodded. “Before coming here, I consulted a professional who estimated your company’s valuation to be between $3 billion and $4 billion. However, valuations can be quite speculative. Even if you reach a $4 billion valuation, that’s merely what investors might pay. I see potential in your company, so I’m prepared to invest $400 million for a 10% stake to bet on its future. However, that $400 million cannot be pocketed; it must be deposited into your company account for business development. If you intend to withdraw it, that would classify as a private equity transaction, which would alter the valuation dynamics.”
Steve continued, “However, I can offer you a unique opportunity. I am willing to acquire your company for $5 billion. Of that, I can pay you $2.5 billion upfront, making you instant billionaires.”
“However, all shareholders must remain involved in the company’s operations. I won’t provide additional salaries, but I will distribute the remaining $2.5 billion over the next three years. After that period, if I still need you, we can renegotiate the terms. If you’re agreeable, we can start the acquisition process today. If not, I’ll return to New York. This offer is available for three days. You may consult with other shareholders and reach a consensus. Should you reconsider, please contact me within that timeframe.”