You’ll never guess what I’ve just heard. No, really. It has to do with your business, a sensational, unexpected predator who is about to come forward, and a worrying story about some of those rock-solid assets you have taken for granted for so long. I am sorry to have to bring you such startling news. But I read about it just now on the internet. It must be true.

OK, I admit it – I made that all up. But these last few weeks have shown how vulnerable any company can be to the latest piece of tittle-tattle and rumour. In the internet era, lies and distortion can circumnavigate the globe a thousand times before the truth has booted up.