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Concept

Power

Power is controlling something people want.

This simple concept belies some sophisticated applications. In business, power — as defined above — often shows up in dealmaking, in strategy, and in operations in underdeveloped countries with weak rule-of-law.

This concept sequence is a companion piece to the Commoncog mini-series on Power in Business. You may start with Part One here.

The purpose of this concept sequence is to illustrate what power looks like, so that you may recognise it in your own contexts.

Cases

John Malone and TCI: Inventing EBITDA in the Cable Industry

The story of John Malone’s incredible run at TCI ... and the invention of EBITDA.

 Members only

Marvel Studios: The Origin Story

The Marvel Cinematic Universe was created thanks to a brilliant piece of financial manoeuvring.

The Absurd Deal That Lead to Republic Plaza

The world class deal that led Kwek Hong Png to get his own Singaporean skyscraper — for cheap.

 Members only

Jesse Livermore: Getting Trapped by Dan Williamson

How Jesse Livermore was used by Dan Williamson of esteemed brokerage Williamson & Brown.

Dell’s Go Private and Second IPO

How Michael Dell used financial engineering to gain the upper hand against his competitors.

Y Combinator and Power in Silicon Valley

A demonstration of power by Silicon Valley’s top startup accelerator.