Corporate Governance

This seminar will focus on key topics in corporate governance. We will cover a range of legal and economic issues, including the following topics: hedge fund activism, gatekeeper liability, executive compensation, proxy advisory services, environmental, social, and governance ("ESG") investing, and independent directors. Each of these issues will be introduced by readings and presentations, but the classes will rely on student discussion and critical evaluation of the papers and positions we examine. Many classes will have guest speakers who are experts in the respective area. Students will have the opportunity to write reaction papers that critically analyze the required readings, and to analyze other corporate governance issues of their choice by working in groups. Elements used in grading: Evaluation will be based on reaction papers, class participation, and performance in the group project and presentation.