Shang Hai Zheng Quan Bao·2025-07-17 00:21Core Viewpoint - The participation experience of small shareholders in annual general meetings (AGMs) is increasingly problematic, with many facing barriers to entry and a lack of meaningful engagement during the meetings [1][2][3]. Group 1: Barriers to Participation - Small shareholders often encounter difficulties in registering for AGMs, with issues such as non-functional email addresses and lack of response from company representatives [2]. - Some companies have been reported to deny entry to shareholders based on unregistered attendance, which contradicts regulations that state all registered shareholders have the right to attend [2][3]. - The reluctance of small shareholders to participate is exacerbated by the additional obstacles set by companies, further diminishing their involvement in corporate governance [3]. Group 2: Meeting Procedures and Engagement - Many AGMs are criticized for being poorly organized, with key executives absent and minimal opportunities for shareholder interaction [4][5]. - The recent regulatory changes regarding the attendance of directors and executives at AGMs have not led to improved engagement, as many companies still treat these meetings as mere formalities [4][5]. - Some companies have been found to limit or completely avoid interactive sessions, opting instead for private meetings with shareholders, which undermines the purpose of the AGMs [6][10]. Group 3: Disclosure of Voting Results - There is a notable trend of companies failing to disclose voting results during the AGMs, instead directing shareholders to check announcements later, which violates existing regulations [7][8]. - The practice of not allowing shareholder representatives to participate in the counting and monitoring of votes raises concerns about the transparency and credibility of the voting process [8][9]. Group 4: Recommendations for Improvement - Companies are urged to eliminate barriers to participation and enhance the AGM process to ensure meaningful engagement with all shareholders [9][10]. - Regulatory bodies should enforce compliance with participation rules and address companies that consistently fail to engage small shareholders [9]. - Small shareholders are encouraged to actively exercise their rights and participate in AGMs to ensure their voices are heard [10].