the screen. Conversation now runs more smoothly as it did before we all began toting smartphones. and that's where the money lies. I once read an article about tourism from the tourist manager of a large provincial town. The view there was that it's far better to have 1 visitor who spends 1,000 than to have 1,000 visitors who spend 1 each. Maybe if FB takes, or is forced down, that route it wouldn't be such a bad thing for them. However, if I was Mr. FB I'd hardly be worrying. So long as the share price holds up until I can cash-out that's all that matters. After that no doubt he'll stand down so he can spend more time with his money and maybe (follow Gates) into doing some good, or colonising outer space, or buying a presidency or two - either for himself, or his friends. Re: So the unprofitable users are leaving &gt; build a company with a long term future, Yes, that's an other option. However, historically web-based businesses don't have a very long shelf-life, unlike well run "proper" businesses with tangible products. So if a major FB shareholder suddenly developed a philanthropic bent (or just felt the need for redemption), then IPO-ing, and cashing in his/her chips to go off and do good works seems to be the way forward. Re: So the unprofitable users are leaving Those leaving are unprofitable *now*. In a few years some of those may be quite profitable, and if