[Scoundreller]

> The problem with going public is that performance is now measured quarterly.

Depends on ownership. When the insiders still own 80% (or control that much through super-voting shares), the minority shareholders’ interests (often but not always short-term) may still be ignored.

[wintogreen74]

The market now measures performance regardless of ownership. Just because they retain a huge percentage of shares, or controlling interest, doesn't mean they'll accept massive declines in market value.

[mattmaroon]

It means they can though. The tech world is full of examples of companies keeping their focus long-term due to dual class structure and/or founders retaining large stakes despite the vagaries of the market.

But, nothing lasts forever. Eventually the founders sell, the shares get converted to common, etc.

[selectodude]

Facebook is, even now, entirely beholden to Mark Zuckerberg's willingness to accept falls in share price. He cannot be removed.