I have stated this before. I find the idea of reducing shareholder value to a simple "maximize short term profits objective" simple minded, foolish, and down right insulting to other stakeholders, such as employees and customers, the environment, the country (as host to be flag carrier) and others.

It also smacks of self indulgent executives who are after maximizing bonuses, which is probably what this simple objective serves the best. Long term value has more facets and some which are woefully neglected by the current management team.

I then came across this gem of a quote, from probably one of the very best corporations in America, if not the world, Wells Fargo:

"Our number one goal when we get up in the morning is not about making money, it's about serving customers. That is the reason for a business. The result is you make money"
-John Stumpf, Chairman & CEO, Wells Fargo

So what gives, AC? If you could do one thing from today, it is to make the above quote your mantra, also.