Comparative Corporate Governance

This course explores key topics in corporate governance, comparing how companies are regulated in the uk, us, and eu. You will gain a thorough introduction to the key principles of corporate law, including the roles and responsibilities of directors and the rights of shareholders. 

You will also learn about the widely accepted best practices for corporate governance that companies are expected to follow today. Additionally, the course will also look at current hot topics, such as shareholder activism, short-term thinking in companies, how executive pay is regulated, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and the growing focus on environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) investing. We will also explore the ongoing debate about the true purpose of corporations: to make money for their owners or serve (also) broader, societal goals.

Who really holds the power in a corporation- the board, the shareholders or someone else? How do companies balance making profits with social and environmental responsibilities? Why are corporate laws different across the UK, US and EU and what impact does that have on business decisions? 

Key information
Entry requirements

• A minimum of 18 years old at the time of study  
• A level BBB or equivalent if you have completed school
• A 2.1 average or 3.3 GPA or equivalent If you are currently studying at or have completed University 
• If you are a non-native English speaker, IELTS 7.0 or above, with a minimum of 6.5 in each component 

Who is this course for?

• This course is aimed at students and graduates who are interested in deepening their understanding of current corporate governance issues that businesses and policymakers face in today’s fast moving, globalised markets.
• Those who have not studied company law before may find the following introductory textbook useful to prepare for this course:  Paul Davies, Introduction to Company Law (3rd edn, OUP 2020).

Learning outcomes
By the end of this course, you will:  

• Understand how different countries approach corporate governance  
• Be familiar with the latest debates about the purpose of corporations
• Be able to critically assess how corporate boards and directors’ duties are regulated in the UK, US, and parts of the EU
• Understand the role of shareholders and other stakeholders in company decisions
• Gain insights into current issues shaping the corporate world.

Week One Introduction to Corporate Governance and key concepts

• Fundamental principles of company law and corporate governance
• The corporate governance movement; sources of corporate governance regulation 
• Corporate theory and the debate about corporate purpose
• Corporate actors and their responsibilities
• Board structure regulation 
• Fiduciary duties of directors
• Regulation of related-party transactions and corporate opportunities

Week Two – Topical Issues in Corporate Governance

• Shareholder activism and short-termism 
• Market for corporate control 
• Executive remuneration 
• Employee rights 
• ESG investing and corporate social responsibility