Shareholder Advocacy
We use our rights as shareholders to work directly with companies to encourage positive outcomes on issues that matter to our clients. We determine the most material risks and opportunities that may impact shareholder value, and encourage practical solutions while holding companies accountable for their progress.
As long-term shareholders, we build collaborative relationships with corporate leaders in an effort to increase transparency and improve corporate practices on a range of topics. Examples include:
For some issues, we engage legislators and policymakers at both the state and federal levels to propose or support policies that facilitate the transition to a more sustainable economy.
In coordination with direct corporate engagement, proxy voting is an effective way to encourage positive change. We take this shareholder responsibility seriously as we vote client proxies in line with our stated values and our clients’ best interests. Our Proxy Voting Guidelines, which we review annually, reaffirm our high expectations of corporate boards and help guide our assessment of each ballot item at company meetings.