Entrepreneurs are people who want to have
children who will do as they tell them to. Of course, this only happens with
some probability, but it would be reasonable to assume that the probability is
higher than that of your biological children doing what you expect them to.
Usually, less than 5 years after getting a job,
the would-be entrepreneur’s biological clock begins ticking and they can’t see
the point of meaningless associations with different employers. They crave
something more. So they decide to have their own baby company. Often they look
for partners, and unlike marriage, they are allowed to have as many partners as
they please without society frowning upon their depravity.
And then it happens. Their company is
incorporated. It’s a magical moment. Like most people with children they
struggle with their finances. Unlike most people with children they can sell a
part of their baby company to a venture capitalist who will give them the money
to raise it properly. Often, companies that are not properly nourished at this
point with all the love and attention they deserve grow up to be damaged
sociopaths who go bankrupt and wreck many careers.
Venture capitalists are often people who have
raised their own baby companies and understand the effort that goes into it,
which is why they are so willing to share their wealth and experience, much
like grandmothers teach the parents how to treat a baby with colic.
And finally, when the child comes of age, he is
sold off in an IPO, much like an arranged marriage. Let’s call the subscription
process the hunt for a suitable match (a company can have as many owners as it
likes without getting into any legal or moral predicaments). Let’s call the IPO
proceeds dowry. Some IPOs aren’t successful; others, wildly so. It’s all a game
of chance. And the game nearly takes a lifetime to play. I see a bright future
for entrepreneurship in India.
No comments:
Post a Comment