The first half of 2026 marked a pivotal shift in shareholder activism and corporate governance. While proxy contests declined, activism evolved with investors increasingly favouring negotiated settlements, strategic M&A campaigns and operational demands centred on AI, capital allocation and board oversight. The Proxy Season Review 2026 from Diligent Market Intelligence in association with Sodali & Co and Sullivan & Cromwell brings together exclusive data, expert analysis and real-world case studies to explain the trends that defined the season and what boards, advisors and investors should expect next. Inside the report you'll discover:

Why M&A re-emerged as the defining activist strategy, with push-for-sale demands rising by almost 50%.
How activists are increasingly securing board representation through negotiated settlements rather than contested proxy fights.
The growing influence of artificial intelligence on activist campaigns, board oversight and executive compensation.
What changing SEC policy and a sharp decline in shareholder proposals mean for governance professionals.
The latest trends in CEO pay, say-on-pay voting and remuneration scrutiny.
Regional analysis of shareholder activism across the U.S., Europe, Asia, Canada and Australasia.
The season's most significant activism campaigns, along with practical insights from leading advisers at Sodali & Co and Sullivan & Cromwell on preparing for an increasingly unpredictable activism landscape.

Whether you're responsible for corporate governance, investor relations, stewardship, legal strategy or activism defence, this report provides the data and market intelligence needed to understand how the proxy landscape is changing, and how organisations can prepare for what comes next.

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