Just Share has attended over 94 annual general meetings (AGMs) and asked over 320 questions relating to climate change, corporate governance, inequality and transformation.
This extensive experience of attending AGMs before, during and after the Covid-19 pandemic has yielded valuable insights for companies, shareholders, and other stakeholders. Drawing on this expertise and with reference to South Africa’s regulatory framework for conducting AGMs, Just Share has developed this best practice guide to help listed companies plan and execute effective, compliant hybrid AGMs.
AGMs represent more than a statutory obligation: they are valuable opportunities for companies to showcase key achievements, address challenges transparently, and proactively engage with shareholder concerns. Key considerations for AGM planning and execution should include:
• The adoption of a stakeholder-inclusive approach to AGMs that complies with the requirements of the Companies Act No. 71 of 2008, as amended (Companies Act) and aligns with the recommendations of the King Report on Corporate
Governance (King IV).3
• Hosting hybrid AGMs to provide the broadest opportunity for participation.
• A commitment to understanding and enhancing shareholders’ experience of virtual participation while ensuring that the online format does not inhibit meaningful shareholder engagement or diminish board accountability.
