Shareholder Activism

Shareholders have continued to demonstrate their dissatisfaction with public companies through various proposals related to environmental, social, and corporate governance demands. In 2022, the total number of global companies that were activist targets was just under 1,000, and we anticipate 2023 will have similar results. We had an insightful panelist discussion around shareholder activism trends, how shareholder activism may create or destroy company value, and what board members can do to prepare for activist campaigns directed at their companies.

Key session takeaways from the session included:

• Global trends in the types of shareholder proposals (e.g., climate change, diversity and equality, board independence, etc.) and vote results as well as a summary of key US activist campaigns
• The different flavors of shareholders (e.g., institutional investors, hedge funds, retail, etc.)
• The channels activists use to pursue their goals
• The board of directors’ role in protecting their companies against activists

Thank you to our generous sponsor for hosting this event: