For most people, especially those conducting legitimate business, it's certain that they believe harmony brings wealth. In fact, not only for business but many people adhere to a concept called the "Doctrine of the Mean," believing that by taking a step back, the sky's the limit.
That approach isn't wrong, but sometimes being overly accommodating can embolden a small group of people—those who penny pinch and avoid calamity by losing money, resulting in that group of miserly and extortionate people growing ever more rampant and aggressive.
And unfortunately, this group of people believe their reputation, their public face, is their reliance. To maintain their face and make their "public image" greater, most will escalate their efforts.
But the true value of face, no one can really say for sure. At least for someone like Zeng Zhaokun, he believes that his face is incredibly valuable.