Getting the Y-Gen to look "through" the personalities is actually quite a challenge, it has been an interesting exercise. The kids loved Nick Curtis (being ex-Macquarie and hearing all about the millionaires factory and they thought his yacht was pretty cool and he looked like a winner) and I said no and would not let them buy into his company. There are a few others out there that also tend to sell more "sizzle" than "sausage".
I have to admit your comment about MAQ acquiring them raised my eyebrows as I didn't even think that was a possibility but true if they get sufficient market share and a solid footprint someone will come knocking, might even be GE, again.
As for the 4 pillars, that's always an interesting debate, perhaps another time but John and Mark and a few others have certainly tested their resolve in the retail space over the years.
By the way the kids are now pissed at me about Elders as well, been a good week or so lately, at least CYP saved me some face.