News
The Investor Relations Society hosted a ground-breaking meeting today, with representatives from some of the UKs largest investors joining a cross section of investor relations directors to discuss how the two groups encourage dialogue around the core principles of stewardship. The inaugural meeting of what is hoped will be a regular Investor Relations Forum between the Society and the investment community focused on the operation of the UK’s new stewardship code.
Early conclusions focused on the need to make further improvements to the interaction between investors and companies without creating the obligation to have unnecessary events. Overall, It was felt that many investors were already conforming to best practice in communication with companies, but that the code had improved engagement of smaller investment funds. However, there was still room for improvement in communication and on the topical question of remuneration, it was agree that more should be done by companies to explain their policies well in advance of annual meetings.
The inaugural ‘Investor Relations Forum’ was convened by the UK’s Investor Relations Society which represents investor relations professionals from many FTSE100, 250 and international companies.
John Dawson, Chairman of the Investor Relations Society said "Investor Relations Officers are playing an increasingly important role within corporates, balancing the views of investors with the strategic and operational delivery of the business. Understanding that role and the need for constructive dialogue with investors on a wide range of stewardship related topics drove our desire to get investors and IROs round a table to identify issues of mutual concern. At a time when the government is urging investors to be more proactive in the stewardship of their investments it is important that there is an understanding of what is required from management and fund managers alike".
It is anticipated that the Forum will meet on a regular basis with the object of contributing to best practice in stewardship.
Published: 9 February, 2012