First of #ThirtySixStratagems: 瞒天过海 (瞞天過海) – Mántiānguòhǎi; #English: Sneak across the ocean in broad daylight

Mini strategy series @soerenbax: The Thirty-Six Stratagems, a collection of ancient Chinese military thought and experience.

Characters of the first of Thirty-Six Stratagems: 瞒天过海 (瞞天過海) – Mántiānguòhǎi. , mán: conceal. , tiān: sky. , guò: to cross. , hǎi: sea, ocean.

Meaning: To hide action within a unsuspicious, everyday action. To pretend everyting is just business as usual, but actually striking at the opponent.

Business example: When preparing a hostile take over of a stock listed company, it may be wise to hide the true intention, because of possible counter measures. At least at first and until enough shares are already collected. This maybe done through intermediate banks and traders and in small steps. The purchase will look like everyday trade and won’t attract too much attention. When enough shares are collected, then the takeover can be announced. Sneak across the ocean in broad daylight.