LD Pensions has entered into a partnership with Stewark regarding voting at general meetings of the companies in which we invest. Stewark’s AI-based solution analyses the companies’ agendas and draws up voting recommendations based on LD Pensions’ own voting policy, historical data and input.
As a shareholder, LD Pensions can influence companies through its voting rights at general meetings. Among other things, decisions are taken at these meetings regarding the composition of the board of directors, executive remuneration and proposals relating to climate and sustainability issues. Voting is therefore an important tool in the practice of active ownership.
We are already making active use of our right to vote. With Stewark, we have a solution that reflects our own views and experiences. This gives us a better opportunity to prioritise those votes where it is particularly important that we get involved. It gives us greater influence in our active ownership.
New technology offers greater flexibility
Voting recommendations are often based on standardised policies. Stewark’s AI-based solution makes it possible to analyse a large number of agenda items whilst taking LD Pensions' own guidelines into account. This makes it easier to identify the votes that require particular attention, for example if a proposal relates to material financial matters or issues concerning the environment, social matters and governance.
The solution is designed to make the process more consistent and transparent. This will make it easier to document voting decisions and monitor them over time. This is particularly relevant in a global equity portfolio with numerous proposals across companies and markets.
Stewark supports the work on analyses and recommendations, but it is still LD Pensions that decides how to vote.
