Thought Leadership  •  February 20, 2026

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Honeypot Field to Catch Bots

Top Proxy Themes for 2026

As companies prepare for the 2026 proxy season, investor expectations continue to rise amid regulatory change, evolving governance standards, and an increasingly complex engagement. Today’s proxy is no longer just a compliance document, it is a strategic communications tool that must clearly explain business strategy, board oversight, executive compensation, and sustainability priorities to a diverse shareholder base, including large, indexed investors.

Read Ron Schneider's thoughts on heightened activism, shifting ESG dynamics, and new disclosure requirements. Companies that modernize proxy design, strengthen transparency, and proactively engage stakeholders will be better positioned to earn investor confidence and support in an era of greater scrutiny.

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Ron Schneider

Director, Corporate Governance Services, DFIN