An online spat took place a few weeks ago at an electronic message board devoted to Danka Business Systems after a writer identified as SpouseEmployee suggested the St. Petersburg company was on the verge of bankruptcy. Forget clubby New York brokerage firms, densely written research reports and mounds of financial data. The illusion of getting the inside scoop attracts hundreds of message-posters and thousands more readers to the Internet boards every day. Though none of the services that host the online discussions keep count of message board visitors, the sites draw millions of people each month. Among the messages was one by PHYC Fire Chief, a frequent poster.
Message boards have their fingers on the pulse of the masses.
And from the tone of most boards, the blood pressure is rising. And at Intermedia Communications Inc., even an improving stock price hasn't quieted the harping about how supposedly inept managers are forcing the smart folks to bail. Techies began talking to each other online in the 1980s through electronic bulletin boards, simple computer networks linked by phone lines, usually run by a geek in a bedroom. With the advent of the Internet and cheap access service, everybody got connected. Ebay Inc. With the stock market and day-trading soaring, investment message boards have sprouted on dozens of Web sites.