Analysis-BlackRock, Vanguard scale back company talks as new guidance bites

Core Insights - The world's two largest asset managers, BlackRock and Vanguard, have significantly reduced the number of meetings with company executives this year due to new SEC guidance, impacting discussions on climate change and diversity [1][2][3] Group 1: Meeting Reductions - BlackRock and Vanguard reported declines of 28% and 44% in meetings with company executives compared to the previous year [3] - The new SEC guidance has led to a decrease in shareholder-manager discussions, particularly on non-contentious issues like directorships and executive pay [3][4] Group 2: SEC Guidance Impact - The SEC's new directives, influenced by the Trump administration, have created a chilling effect on investor engagement, making it difficult for fund managers to communicate their voting intentions [4][6] - The guidance requires fund managers to file more complex forms if they exert pressure on management, which could deter active engagement [6] Group 3: Voting Patterns - Both BlackRock and Vanguard have reduced support for climate and social resolutions, continuing a trend observed in previous years [5] - Corporate governance issues remain a focus, with support for these matters still prevalent despite the decline in discussions on climate and social topics [5]