This industry demanded substantial investments in R&D, with labor costs being notably high. The Innova Group diligently managed expenses to uphold the competitiveness of its products. It wasn't just about quality and technology—they also aimed to sustain a competitive advantage in costs and prices for long-term survival.

While the Innova Group had the option to easily raise funds, the Salt City authorities proposed taking the company public. Given the Innova Group's technological reserves and market size, going public could result in a conglomerate worth billions. Although individual shares, like Eric's, might be diluted, the financial gain would still be significant.

Funds were not a pressing issue for the Innova Group, as companies like theirs often received support from larger entities. The Williams, Sonnexes, and Montgomerys were the Innova Group's backers.

Sylvia favored industrial ventures over finance, whereas Eric and Andy leaned toward using technology as the backbone of th