We believe voting rights have economic value and should be treated accordingly. Voting at shareholder meetings is a vital component of our overall approach to effective stewardship of our clients' assets. Voting is not an end in itself, but is an important part of our oversight role.

It enables us to voice our opinion to a company on a broad range of topics and can encourage boards to listen to and address investor concerns. A high voting turnout at general meetings can help ensure that decisions are representative of all stakeholders, not only those with large holdings or shorter-term perspectives.

Where we have been given the discretion to vote on behalf of our clients, we exercise our delegated fiduciary responsibility by voting in a manner we believe will most favourably impact the economic value of their investments. We vote globally so long as there is no conflict with the efficient management of client portfolios.

We do not generally seek to file or co-file shareholder resolutions, preferring to seek resolution  through engagement and dialogue with a company.

We will attend a shareholder meeting where we have concerns over the proposals and wish to raise an issue on the agenda.