What companies can expect from the Investor Forum
- No shareholder support, no engagement: shareholders escalate their concerns to the Forum and we only proceed with a critical mass of support
- Focused on value creation not box ticking: tests apply before proceeding – engagement is grounded in economic rationale, a long-term focus and constructive solutions
- Comprehensive engagement strategy and mandate: we will have spoken with the portfolio managers, sector analysts and governance professionals to understand their views
- Agreed way forward: the views we convey are agreed by all engagement participants
- Ongoing interaction: up-to-date views from participants. Participants are aware if the company is unwilling to engage positively with the Forum
- No intention to supersede direct engagement: we encourage participants to continue their individual interactions with the company
- Confidentiality: all dialogue is confidential although public escalation strategies may be considered when necessary
What we expect from companies:
- Approach the engagement with an open mind: shareholders have seen value in participating in collective engagement under the auspices of the Forum, and we would expect a company to respect the role of the Forum in amplifying shareholder views in pursuit of a constructive dialogue
- No inside information: the Forum actively seeks to avoid obtaining inside information from companies without our prior consent
- Board level participation: the approach is constructive, with the aim of helping the company to understand the range of participants’ views and any obstacles to realising the company’s long-term potential
- A comprehensive plan to build confidence: we seek outcomes that enhance the value of the franchise for the benefit of all stakeholders