On November 17th, the SEC revised rules to allow shareholders to vote for their preferred combination of board nominees in contested elections. Under new Rule 14a-19, it will be mandatory for management or shareholders to use universal proxy cards when soliciting proxy votes for their own candidates in contested director elections. The rule requires that universal proxy cards list the names of all director candidates for an election at an upcoming shareholder meeting, whether or not the candidates were nominated by management or shareholders. Much like voting in person, the modifications will provide shareholders equal voting opportunity even when voting by proxy. Continue reading "SEC Approves New Rules for Universal Proxy..." »