Google - Any Potential Hostile Bids?

Could 2003 bring a big surprise for Google?

[lasko]

Whilst we all wait for the big Google update why not discuse something that may become the biggest ever Google update.

Is Google open to a hostile bid? and if so who will bid?

My biggest fear is that Google being No.1 will be snapped
up very soon, and will bring a big surprise to everyone.

I am not fully aware of the companies situation financially
or its position but as each day goes something tells me that a company is waiting to snap them up which will start a bidding war between many others.

Is this possible and I would very much like to hear some points of views regarding the company instead of us all trying to predict when the update will be.

Just keep building websites packed with info and Google will update you when they are ready!

:)

[JayC]

Is Google open to a hostile bid?

Nope. It's a privately-owned company, not currently traded on any market. Of course there's been much speculation that a public offering may be on the horizon.

[netguy]

When it goes public... it's time to let the moths out of the wallet and BUY!

[taxpod]

When/If it goes public, likely far less than 50% of the equity will be sold. Hostile bid is out of the question for Google for many, many moons, uh updates.

[lasko]

I could only see Google going public if they require to raise cash for a major acquisition which I personally
don't think they need to do.

If they do go public then they will loose all control and shareholders and other companies will demand more from Google which may push them into other means of raising profits.

Could it be that Google is trying to push into a Yahoo type market?

Is it possible that Google will have complete control over Dmoz?

Create and manage their own databases?

This is more important to consider then the short term games of waiting for the update. I am now worried that I am far too dependent on Google and trying to work out their position for today and the future.

[netguy]

I agree Lasko... Although I think Google is the by far the best going, a public offering would add additional scrutiny for profits - which could involve the addition of those pesky banners, popunders, and worse.

... It didn't take long for AltaVista to go down the wrong tracks!