The shareholders come together once a year. (Photo: Freepik)
Large stage, important decisions: once a year, shareholders, board members and supervisory boards meet for the general meeting. Here, dividends, strategy and the future of the company are coordinated. If you want to keep an eye on your investment, you should know how the day works and what rights he has.
What happens at the general meeting
The Annual General Meeting (HV for short) is the central forum for shareholders of a group. It usually takes place once a year and decides on central topics such as that Use of profitthe Relief of the board and the supervisory board as well as the Choice of the auditor. Also Changes in the articles of association, supervisory board elections and Capital measures are often on the agenda.
The meeting begins with the opening and greetingfollowed by Report of the board and supervisory board. After that, shareholders can be under the agenda Questions put before the individual Points coordinated becomes.
Forms of the general meeting and shareholder status
There is that ordinary general meetingthat takes place annually and deals with standard topics. Extraordinary general meetings are convened when special decisions are pending – for example in the event of takeovers or capital measures.
Since Corona are too Virtual general meetings possible that are held online.
Shareholders can Ordinary shares With voting rights or Preferences keep without voting rights. Large shareholders have more influence, but small investors can also submit applications and questions.
What shareholders should pay particular attention to at HV
A closer look at the Invitation and the agenda it’s worth it. Deadlines for Registration and counter -applications are strict and must be observed. The regulations can be found in the Stock Act or the Articles of Association.
The General debate is the chance to ask questions and question management.
Particularly important: the vote on the Relief of the board and the supervisory board. Here shareholders can pronounce or withdraw their trust. If you cannot participate, you should grant a power of attorney.
Rights and options for shareholders (Germany)
- Right of information: Shareholders have the right to ask questions and request information.
- Right of application: Every shareholder may bring in their own applications in the meeting. Additional applications for the agenda require at least 5 percent of the share capital or 500,000 euros.
- Right of contestation: In the event of irregularities, the resolution can be contested.
- After the meeting: The protocol is available from the company and can be viewed. You should also check whether the dividend has been transferred.
Annual General Meeting-process, to-dos and options
| Step | What should be considered? | What can/must I do? |
|---|---|---|
| Receive an invitation | Deadlines, check the agenda | Log in, if necessary add the agenda |
| Registration | Registration deadline (usually 6 days in advance) | Inform the custody bank, issue a power of attorney |
| Access and legitimation | Proof of shares | Hold the depot extension |
| Report | Recognize critical topics | Prepare questions |
| General debate | Use the right to speak, right of information | Ask questions, enter applications |
| vote | Voting distribution, representation | Vote, issue instructions |
| Procedure for the result | Control of the decisions | In the event of errors, object |
| After the HV | Check the log and dividend | Check challenge, if necessary |
Conclusion: general meeting of stock corporations
The general meeting is more than a mandatory date. Those who are prepared, know deadlines and use their rights can be heard and influence. Especially when he acts with others. There is a worth saying – for small investors as well as for large shareholders.
Disclaimer:
All information without guarantee for completeness, correctness and topicality. The text does not represent a trade recommendation or investment advice.