Corporate governance in North America is increasingly shaped by institutional investors and the policy frameworks of two proxy advisory firms: ISS and Glass Lewis. With retail voting rates at historic lows, advisory defaults currently dictate thousands of proxy outcomes.
At Kingsdale Advisors, we believe it’s time to restore balance. Greater retail investor engagement can reduce reliance on standardized recommendations, strengthen shareholder democracy, and ensure a broader mix of shareholder perspectives.
ExxonMobil’s retail voting program shows how innovation in voting access can help. Explore our latest insights on why companies and regulators should support new mechanisms to empower retail investors and recalibrate voting power.
Latest Insights
Modernizing Take-Over Bid Rules Without Losing Market Flexibility
The Canadian Securities Administrators closed a 90-day consultation period earlier this month on proposed amendments to Canada’s issuer bid, take-over bid and beneficial ownership reporting regimes. Investors need decision-useful information, while market participants need the flexibility to engage, adapt and execute effectively.
Upcoming Event | Governance on the Move: Shareholder Engagement in a New Era
On September 23, 2026, Kingsdale Advisors is hosting an in-person event in Toronto, where senior leaders from the Ontario Securities Commission, Glass Lewis, and Canadian Coalition for Good Governance will share latest industry insights. Register your interest to attend.
Kingsdale's Victor Li Talks Insider-Led Activism with Diligent
Our EVP of Governance Advisory, Shengjun (Victor) Li, CFA, ESG, HRCCC Li, spoke with Diligent's Simon Roughneen about the rise in activist campaigns, along with insights from the 2026 proxy season.
When The Stakes Are Highest, Business Leaders Choose Kingsdale
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* Source: Bloomberg Global Shareholder Activism League Tables FY2025 and LSEG Global Shareholder Activism Review FY2025.
#2025 and 2026 indicate proxy seasons: July 2024 to June 2026.