Too bad, that long-term users still kind of decide the fate of the company (as shareholders at some point realize that their share probably is not worth it).

Yeah, that's really the kicker, isn't it? Legally beholden to the shareholders who demand short term profits forever and ever, risking the loss of long-term customers.

It's a guaranteed death.

I mean, that's my take. Also why you hear a lot of moaning and groaning from enthusiasts when a company who makes well-loved products decides to go public. Enshittification always occurs.

Yup. Same goes for being employed - if they're publicly traded they'll almost certainly treat their staff like absolute garbage.

Real shocker, right? 😂