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These findings are based on conversations we had with governance specialists from institutional investors representing US$55 trillion in assets under management. Based on our conversations with investor stewardship leaders, here are developments to watch heading into proxy season 2025.
- In a rapidly changing business context, investors’ expectations about company priorities are evolving. While climate and talent remain top focus areas, a growing number of investors want companies to prioritize technology, capital strategy and political risk management.
- Some investors are increasing their focus on board quality and governance, while artificial intelligence (AI) continues to accelerate as an engagement topic.
- After multiple years of convergence, the investor community is diverging on sustainability stewardship as asset owners and managers adapt to changes in shareholder activism and growing scrutiny from stakeholders in a shifting US political environment.
Leading boards will use these insights in collaboration with their management teams to prepare for shareholder engagement and strengthen their investor communications in 2025.