Ask HN: Is it possible for a startup to remain privately owned?

1 pointsabdulla15y ago2 comments

Does a startup eventually need to be acquired or go public to bring value to it's employees and shareholders?

2 comments

2 comments · 2 top-level

To answer the question in the title: Yes.

To answer the question in the body: No.

A company can remain in private hands and distribute profit to shareholders through dividends and to employees as bonuses.

brk15y ago

No, that's just the easiest way to put a valuation on it and create a way for employees to actually exercise the shares they hold.

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