Social Research & Portfolio Screening | Company Dialogues | Shareholder Resolutions : Shareholder Resolution History | Proxy Voting | Public Policy
Walden Asset Management has given voice to our clients’ concerns for over a quarter of a century. Grounded in our commitment to meet the investment objectives of our clients
and the shared vision for a healthy and just society, Walden’s goal is to leverage share ownership
to support and promote
corporate change.
There are many facets of shareholder advocacy, ranging from direct
communication with company managements to public policy involvement. The tools of the shareholder advocate - social research & portfolio screening,
dialogue with companies,
shareholder resolutions, proxy voting, and public policy
initiatives - are important components of the corporate change process. These tools are strengthened by work with
other investors, informed professionals, affected constituencies, and non-governmental
organizations.
Dialogue with Companies
We regularly
initiate dialogue with corporate managements to address issues of concern to our
clients, both during the process of
evaluating companies for investment and once we are shareholders. Because Walden’s investment approach emphasizes the
selection of companies with attractive long-term prospects, we are
frequently able to establish constructive and enduring relationships. Walden meets regularly with many
companies to discuss emerging issues, learn best practices, and
monitor progress toward stated goals. For more examples of Walden initiatives, we invite you to visit Walden Actions to find Walden news, publications and press releases.
Shareholder Resolutions
In cases where
companies are not sufficiently responsive or where dialogue breaks down, we are able to
take our
concerns directly to other shareholders through the shareholder resolution
process. Sponsoring a shareholder resolution allows an issue to be voted on by all
shareholders through the proxy ballot. Importantly, filing a resolution often encourages negotiations
with management leading to an early agreement and allowing withdrawal of the resolution
before the proxy ballot is
printed. Walden's resolutions have, many times, achieved record levels of
support, compelling management to take action.
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