Capital One Financial Corporation, commonly known as Capital One, is not a privately owned company but a publicly traded corporation. As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, it was listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the ticker symbol "COF." However, please note that stock market conditions and ownership structures can change over time, so it's always recommended to verify the latest information regarding a company's ownership status.

Capital One was founded in 1988 and has since become one of the largest banks in the United States, specializing in credit cards, auto loans, banking, and other financial services. While its headquarters are located in McLean, Virginia, the company operates branches and ATMs throughout the United States, as well as offering online banking services.

Being a publicly traded company means that ownership of Capital One is divided among numerous shareholders who hold shares of the company's stock. These shares are bought and sold on public stock exchanges, allowing investors to participate in the company's ownership and financial performance. The initial public offering (IPO) for Capital One took place in 1994, which made the company's shares available for public trading.

Publicly traded companies are required to disclose financial and operational information to regulatory bodies and shareholders. Capital One publishes regular financial reports, including quarterly earnings, annual reports, and other filings, providing transparency to its stakeholders and potential investors. These reports are available to the public and can be accessed through various channels, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) website or the company's investor relations portal.

The ownership of a publicly traded company like Capital One is dynamic, with shares bought and sold by institutional investors, individual shareholders, and other entities on the stock market. Shareholders may include mutual funds, pension funds, individual investors, and even other corporations. The ownership structure of Capital One is subject to change as investors trade their shares and new investors acquire or divest their holdings.

It is worth noting that while Capital One is a publicly traded company, there may be individuals or entities, such as its founders, executive officers, or large institutional investors, who hold significant stakes in the company. These major shareholders can have a considerable influence on the company's strategic decisions and governance, but the overall ownership and control of the company lie with the broader base of shareholders.

In conclusion, Capital One is not a privately owned company but a publicly traded corporation. It has been listed on the New York Stock Exchange since 1994, providing an opportunity for investors to own shares and participate in the company's ownership. However, it's essential to verify the current ownership structure and status of the company as it may have changed since my knowledge cutoff in September 2021.