Summary
State Street Corporation (STT) has amended and restated its by-laws, effective October 15, 2015, to implement a proxy access procedure for shareholder director nominations. This change allows eligible shareholders to nominate directors and have them included in the company's proxy materials. The new by-laws aim to enhance shareholder engagement and provide a more direct channel for them to influence board composition. This development is significant for investors as it lowers the barrier for meaningful participation in corporate governance. The proxy access provision requires a nominating shareholder or group of up to 20 shareholders to collectively own at least 3% of State Street's outstanding voting stock for a continuous period of three years. Nominees included via this process can represent up to 20% of the board, indicating a potentially substantial impact on future board composition.
Key Highlights
- 1State Street Corporation adopted a proxy access by-law allowing shareholders to nominate directors for inclusion in company proxy materials.
- 2The new by-laws were effective as of October 15, 2015.
- 3A shareholder or group of up to 20 shareholders can nominate directors.
- 4The nominating shareholder(s) must beneficially own 3% or more of the total voting power of outstanding shares.
- 5The 3% ownership stake must be held continuously for at least three years.
- 6Proxy access nominees can constitute up to 20% of the board of directors.
- 7The amended by-laws include related conforming changes to facilitate the proxy access procedure.