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The Efficacy of Shareholder Voting: Evidence from Equity Compensation Plans

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  • Armstrong, Christopher S.

    (University PA)

  • Gow, Ian D.

    (Harvard University)

  • Larcker, David F.

    (Rock Center for Corporate Governance, Stanford University)

Abstract

This study examines the effects of shareholder support for equity compensation plans on subsequent chief executive officer (CEO) compensation. Using cross-sectional regression, instrumental variable, and regression discontinuity research designs, we find little evidence that either lower shareholder voting support for, or outright rejection of, proposed equity compensation plans leads to decreases in the level or composition of future CEO incentive-compensation. We also find that in cases where the equity compensation plan is rejected by shareholders, firms are more likely to propose, and shareholders are more likely to approve, a plan the following year. Our results suggest that shareholder votes have little substantive impact on firms' incentive-compensation policies. Thus, recent regulatory efforts aimed at strengthening shareholder voting rights, particularly in the context of executive compensation, may have limited effect on firms' compensation policies.

Suggested Citation

  • Armstrong, Christopher S. & Gow, Ian D. & Larcker, David F., 2012. "The Efficacy of Shareholder Voting: Evidence from Equity Compensation Plans," Research Papers 2097, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business.
    • Handle: RePEc:ecl:stabus:2097
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Powell, Daniel & Rapp, Marc Steffen, 2015. "Non-mandatory say on pay votes and AGM participation: Evidence from Germany," SAFE Working Paper Series 107, Leibniz Institute for Financial Research SAFE.

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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • G30 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - General
    • J33 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs - - - Compensation Packages; Payment Methods
    • M52 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Personnel Economics - - - Compensation and Compensation Methods and Their Effects

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