There were individuals already holding.They could have bought out the shareholders and taken the company private, IF those shareholders agreed to sell. If not, they would be holding shares in a private company as long as they owned 52% or more of the shares. There is no way to legally force people to sell their shares. If a buyout occurs, you are still not forced to sell your shares. However, if the company is a Delaware corporation, the purchaser needs only 52% of the shares for a buyout. Anyone who doesn't agree to sell, will likely be left with nothing.