Below are key takeaways from ISS’ recently released 2025 Hong Kong Proxy Season Preview. The full report is available to institutional subscribers by logging into ProxyExchange then selecting the Knowledge Center and its Library tab and to corporate subscribers by logging into Compass then selecting Governance and the Governance Library or Governance Exchange tab.
- The 2025 proxy season in Hong Kong will be shaped by reforms that aim to align local governance standards more closely with global investor expectations. Board renewal, diversity, transparency, and audit integrity will be key focus areas for shareholders.
- Corporate Governance Enhancements: Amendments to the Main Board Listing Rules aim to improve board effectiveness through caps on overboarding, INED tenure limits, and voluntary designation of a Lead INED where the chair is not independent. The changes also promote diversity and enhance director training and evaluation requirements.
- Improved Disclosure Requirements Aligned to Global Standards: Listed issuers must disclose board skills matrices and conduct annual board performance reviews. New proportionality and scale-in measures support a phased-in implementation of these disclosure enhancements, reflecting a shift toward greater transparency and sustainability.
- Audit Enforcement Action in China: PwC China was suspended for six months and fined by the MoF and CSRC for audit failings related to China Evergrande. This underscores regulatory focus on audit quality and raises questions on audit committee oversight across Greater China.
- Strategic Merger in UK Telecom Sector: CK Hutchison’s subsidiary, Three UK, completed a landmark merger with Vodafone UK to enhance competition and accelerate 5G infrastructure investment. CMA approval was granted with conditions on pricing and access.
- Companies that proactively embrace these changes and communicate clearly with investors will be best positioned to secure shareholder and investor support during the upcoming proxy season.
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By:
Noel Yape, Joseph Estillore, Lorenzo Montecillo
