Few people really understand the Mars-style management behind the clouds.

The best interpretation of Jack Ma is not to interpret him; his authentic voice represents the very essence of going against the tide in business. On January 19, 2009, Jack Ma wrote in an email to Alibaba employees: "Please take your family out and spend money! Go consume!" Against the backdrop of a global crisis, Ma acted counter-cyclically — planning for salary increases in 2009 and generous year-end bonuses in 2008...