[sopooneo]

However, is there an underlying truth at Valve, that if he wanted to, Newell could fire everyone on the spot? I have no idea if that is true, and if so, don't necessary think such an arrangement is bad. But if that is the case, it needs to be acknowledged that authority, even if unstated and unexercised, still has an effect.

[hkmurakami]

Gabe Newell apparently owns more than 50% of Valve's equity so yes, he can do whatever he pleases with the company.

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-03-08-gabe-newell-is-...