Why do we assume that the goal of a private-sector organisation is to maximise shareholder wealth?

We assume that the goal of a private-sector organization is to maximize shareholder wealth because shareholders are the owners of the company and expect a return on their investment. This focus on profit maximization aligns with the principles of capitalism, where companies are incentivized to operate efficiently and drive growth. Additionally, many management theories, such as agency theory, suggest that executives are motivated to prioritize shareholder interests to ensure job security and performance-based compensation. Ultimately, maximizing shareholder wealth is seen as a fundamental measure of a company's success and sustainability.