In the final game will there be the option to purchase shares in AI companies and/or buy out compeditors and absorb them into your own company/unlock their research? Hopefully anyone who has played Railroad tycoon will know what I’m getting at 
This is indeed a feature we at least plan on trying to implement, yes.
Fantastic! 
I have RT3 so I know what you’re talking about. I don’t think something that realistic is necessary or even wanted by some, but it would still be very neat.