While institutional investors push for shareholder rights, the initial public offerings of companies like Facebook and LinkedIn enshrine the rights of the founders at the expense of public shareholders, according to an article in the New York Times. And the boards of Internet companies may have less input than those at other public companies.

The article cites a recent appearance by Netflix CEO Reed Hastings in which Hastings argued that the main job of boards is to "replace and compensate the C.E.O.," rather than to weigh in on big decisions. It also notes that Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg reportedly told his board about the company's $1 billion acquisition of Facebook only about 24 hours before it occurred.

 

Complete your profile to continue reading and get FREE access to Treasury & Risk, part of your ALM digital membership.

  • Critical Treasury & Risk information including in-depth analysis of treasury and finance best practices, case studies with corporate innovators, informative newsletters, educational webcasts and videos, and resources from industry leaders.
  • Exclusive discounts on ALM and Treasury & Risk events.
  • Access to other award-winning ALM websites including PropertyCasualty360.com and Law.com.
NOT FOR REPRINT

© 2024 ALM Global, LLC, All Rights Reserved. Request academic re-use from www.copyright.com. All other uses, submit a request to [email protected]. For more information visit Asset & Logo Licensing.