I hope the player being able to control whether people can use the AH or not was a joke, too... They'd pretty much be killed on sight for turning it off.

Generally I'm going to say no, I don't think this kind of thing is a good idea. I think successful private companies should hold some sway over things in the future, though. Also, company forts/housing out in the vast expanses of empty space we have would be awesome.

But that's another thread entirely.