Cao Wei reflects on financial volatility and retirement planning

Cao Wei, a 49-year-old man from rural northern Jiangsu, has shared his thirty-year journey of financial struggle, success, and shifting life priorities. After starting his career with a small loan of 500 NDT, he found success in the design and construction industry. However, his decision to start his own business eventually led to significant losses totaling approximately 8 million NDT, or nearly 31 billion VND.

Following a period of intense labor to repay debts, Wei has shifted his focus from wealth accumulation to long-term stability. He has invested approximately 1.6 million NDT to build a 220m² home in Cuigang village near Hefei. The property, built on land leased for 20 years, is intended to serve as both a weekend retreat and a permanent residence for his retirement.