Categories: Agenda

‘Chaos Move’: Special Meetings Gain Support

Investors appear to be narrowing their scope when it comes to shareholder resolutions involving the right to call special meetings, experts say. Fewer proposals have been introduced this year, but those that have gone to a vote have seen a higher rate of support, suggesting that investors are targeting companies where they think they may be able to win.

One such company is Occidental Petroleum, which is now facing a lawsuit filed by Carl Icahn. The activist investor is demanding a books and records inspection over the energy giant’s deal to buy Anadarko Petroleum, which he opposes. The lawsuit suggests Icahn plans to call a special meeting to replace directors. A shareholder proposal to lower the ownership threshold to call a special meeting passed at Occidental’s annual meeting last month.

Similar resolutions on calling a special meeting of investors have passed at several companies this proxy season, Icahn or no.

admin

Recent Posts

‘Mission First:’ Military Directors More Likely to Hold CEOs Accountable

Boards have been steadily reinforcing their ranks through the addition of more directors with military…

2 months ago

Boards Consider Politically Connected Directors Under New Administration

Governance Professionals Caution Against Knee-Jerk Reactions to Shifting Political Winds Meta Platforms added Dana White,…

2 months ago

Let It Snow: CEOs with Cozy Pay and Cold Returns

Where CEO pay climbed and performance sank last year Danaher and United Parcel Service were…

3 months ago

How Boards Can Craft a Next-Level AI Strategy for 2025

As artificial intelligence grows more accessible, boards may have no choice but to embrace it…

3 months ago

Director Details: Who’s at the Table in 2024

A look at the demographics and skills of S&P 500 directors. Corporate boards have greater…

3 months ago

Long-Tenured Independent Directors Lower Litigation, Activist Risks

Companies with independent directors who've served on the board for more than 15 years are…

3 months ago