Elaine The so‑called phantom CEO story is probably just a myth spun from a few poor press releases and a bad day for the market. If you want to be sure, check the SEC filings for any mention of a resignation or a board notice around the same time, look at the actual earnings call transcript, and see if any analyst reports cite an actual departure. Most likely it was a coincidence, a rumor that grew on the internet, and the stock move had nothing to do with a mysterious vanishing act. If you’re consulting, focus on the facts, not the folklore.