Stakeholder Engagement and Policy Session. The Influence of Proxy Advisers and ESG rating agencies on investor voting and FTSE350 companies’ behaviour

The Influence of Proxy Advisers and ESG rating agencies on investor voting and FTSE350 companies’ behaviour

Session Chair: Dr. Anna Tilba

Dr. Anna Tilba worked collaboratively with Chris Hodge and Morrow Sodali team to produce this research commissioned by the Financial Reporting Council (FRC). The study delves into important questions surrounding the recommendations and ratings provided by proxy voting and ESG rating agencies. It examines how these influence companies' behaviour, reporting, governance policies and practices, as well as investor voting decisions.

The findings of this study challenge some widely held assumptions and offer a more nuanced understanding of the influence wielded by proxy advisors and ESG rating agencies. Their impact on voting outcomes and companies' decision-making processes may not be as straightforward as previously believed.

Confirmed Speakers:

Maureen Beresford, Head of Corporate Governance, Regulatory Standards and Codes Division, UK Financial Reporting Council.
Chris Hodge, Senior Advisor, Morrow Sodali, research project industry PI.
Dr. Anna Tilba, Associate Professor in Strategy and Governance, Durham University, Chair of the Review Subcommittee, Best Practice Principles, research project academic PI.
Prof. Konstantinos Sergakis Chair of the Best Practice Principles Oversight Committee. 
Josephine Notaras, Senior Specialist, Sustainable Financial System, PRI.

3.30-3.35pm

Welcome
Dr Anna Tilba, Associate Professor in Strategy and Governance, Durham University, Chair of the Review Subcommittee Best Practice Principles for Shareholder Voting Research Providers, research project academic PI.

3.35-3.50pm

Introduction to the research project

Maureen Beresford, Head of Corporate Governance, Regulatory Standards and Codes Division, UK Financial Reporting Council.

3.50-4.05pm

Discussion of the Research Findings

Chris Hodge, Senior Advisor, Morrow Sodali, research project industry PI.

4.05-4.15pm

Introduction to the Best Practice Principles

Professor Konstantinos Sergakis, Chair of the Best Practice Principles Oversight Committee.

4.15-4.25pm

The Future Research Agenda

Dr Anna Tilba, Associate Professor in Strategy and Governance, Durham University, Chair of the Review Subcommittee, Best Practice Principles, research project academic PI.

4.25-5.00pm

Discussion, Q&A and Session Close