The panel will examine the growing influence of shareholder activism and its implications for corporate governance, investor engagement and ESG (environmental, social and governance) accountability. It will explore how evolving codes of corporate governance are empowering institutional investors, the rise of activist and ESG-focused funds and changing patterns in shareholder proposals and voting behaviour. The discussion will also consider management’s duties and liabilities in responding to activism, the strategic use of litigation and media and the increasing role of foreign investors in shaping ESG priorities. With a spotlight on regulatory responses to greenwashing and the use of emerging technologies, the session will take a comparative approach between Europe and Asia.