Strategic Management and Strategic Competitiveness Essay Example for Free

Strategic Management and Strategic Competitiveness Essay What started as a store geared towards the rugged outdoorsmen has grown into one of leading retailers for the upscale college student as well as the adventurous young adult with a fashion to go along with their adventure. Abercrombie Fitch (AF) sells a variety of casual sportswear apparel, including shirts, graphic t-shirts, jeans, shorts, and sweaters, as well as perfumes/cologne and personal care products, and accessories for both sexes and children. As of February 1, 2014, the company operated 843 stores in the United States and 163 stores outside of the U. S. (SEC, 2014). With a footprint this large in the outdoor apparel it only made since to look into the e-commerce market to continue to expand and grow their business. Strategic management deals with decisions a company makes to stay afloat and have a competitive advantage. Over the past years, AF has encountered a few financial setbacks brought forth by turbulent economic times and a controversial advertising campaign that not only affected sales, it drew negative publicity and sometimes not all publicity is good publicity. If, however, the leaders of the organization can make good tactful and strategic moves, this company might be able to turn around and be profitable. Globalization and Technology AF understood that in order to be competitive, they must venture overseas and do it wisely as well as strategically. Companies that take the chance on foreign opportunities are often met with challenges set forth by governments, including local sourcing requirements, tariffs and restrictions on foreign direct investment. Not only must the area be able to support the new business, AF had to make sure any other requirements from local areas are met. This may be why competitors American Eagle Outfitters Inc. and J. Crew Group Inc. had not made the move. Despite the challenge, Abercrombie took their business overseas in 2007, starting in London (Eaton, 2013). At that time, Gap Inc. was the only major competitor overseas, with one hundred sixty eight stores internationally. Having the information available that Gap Inc. has been successful, allowed for AF to save on financial resources of placing stores in certain areas. Knowing that Gap Inc. stores were making profit then AF stores should make a profit in the same area. The  company capitalized on this opportunity, and it paid off. The company recorded revenues of $3,318.2 million during the fiscal year ended January 2007, an increase of 19.2% over 2006. The operating profit of the company was $658.1 million during fiscal year 2007, an increase of 21.3% over 2006. The net profit was $422.2 million in fiscal year 2007, an increase of 26.4% over 2006. The company has made over $7 million in the current year with direct to consumer sales (Abercrombie Fitch, 2007). Bringing the product to the consumers’ fingertips allows for them the opportunity to shop from their couches, beds, or even workplace and have their items delivered to their homes. The world of e-commerce has helped AF solidify itself as a leading outdoor clothier. Dramatic changes in technology have occurred rapidly over the last ten years. As noted in the textbook, â€Å"personal computers, cellular phones, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, massive databases, and multiple social networking sites are only a few examples of how information is used differently as a result of technological developments† (Hint, 2012). With such advances over the past decade, there has been an increased focus on online sales in order to remain competitive. Multichannel shopping has enabled companies to expand margins and tap into new and emerging markets including China, the leader in use of Internet sales channels (PricewaterhouseCoopers, 2013). Abercrombie has a good online store, accessible to both domestic and international consumers which expand the number of customers dramatically compared to brick and mortar stores only. Abercrombie plans to improve their direct-to-consumer operations by upgrading their website and offering, an assortment of web exclusive styles, by making the items web exclusive it brings those consumers that would not normally use e-commerce to their website and allows them to gather information about their consumers to continue to target the correct demographics. Abercrombie also plans on improving mobile capabilities, expanding international language and payment options. This will enable Abercrombie to be more marketable to the online environment and easily available by any consumer worldwide. Industrial Organization Model and Resource-Based Model The industrial organization (I/O) model describes how above-average returns are earned when companies use the information gained from the external  environment to target a specific area within the industry and apply a winning strategy. Recognizing that 2013 was not a good year financially, AF created specific objectives to help improve investment capital. These objectives (recover productivity and profitably in US stores, improve international growth, increase direct to consumer sales and reduce expenses) will enable the organization to look within each area and focus on improving those areas and begin making a profit. AF has a plan and upon proper implementation the company should begin to see a positive as well as above average return. The textbook explains that the resource based model, â€Å"assumes that each organization is a collection of unique resources and capabilities. The uniqueness of its resources and capabilities is the basis of a firm’s strategy and its ability to earn above-average returns.† (Hint, 2012) At one point AF tried to use their elite and upscale brand as an enticement, making clothing for those wear a size â€Å"large† or lower. Chief Executive Michael S. Jeffries—according to Business Insider—had a core marketing strategy that exclusive sells and that including everyone would make his business â€Å"boring.† (Business Insider, 2013). The â€Å"no plus size† strategy proved not only unsuccessful, but disastrous. It is not uncommon for small boutique stores to attempt to cater only to a particular crowd, however for a major chain store like Abercrombie Fitch making that decision alienated a good portion of the profit potential because of Chief Executive Michael S. Jeffries’ decision. AF reported a quarterly drop in same-store sales for the seven quarters straight, and its stock price fell 10.4 percent (Business time, 2013). Vision Statement and Mission Statement of the Corporation Abercrombie and Fitch focuses upon high-quality merchandise that compliments the casual classic American lifestyle. The organization uses this statement to not only help define how Abercrombie and Fitch do business, but what the company is trying to sell to the consumer. Many consumers around the world understand and accept they will not live in America but if that consumer can somehow have a piece of America in his/her closet through the classic American lifestyle being offered by Abercrombie and Fitch then the person will purchase what they want. The Abercrombie and  Fitch brand is as much about the company and what is provided to the consumer as the actual shirt on the persons back. A person see the words Abercrombie and Fitch across a shirt it will make those around think about where the person made his/her purchase and does that person remind them of themselves and want that same brand. How Stakeholders Impact The Overall Success Of This Corporation. There are many types of stakeholders and each one adds value to and can affect the outcome of an organization. For this paper, three types are focused on – capital market, product market and organizational. Capital market stakeholders are the shareholders. Shareholders have an invested financial interest in the firm’s standing. Shareholders always want the company to make a profit and continue to grow so that their financial interest continues to grow. Product market stakeholders are the customers – those who are interest in the product being sold. Customers not only want the latest and trendiest fashions they also love the brand that is associated with Abercrombie and Fitch. That brand loyalty will keep the shareholders happy and continue investing their profits into the company, which can in turn produce more for the consumer. Organizational stakeholders are the internal workers – employees and management. Employees are the management, supervisors, and laborers who expect a positive work environment where they can grow and gain knowledge. With good working conditions, outstanding organization to work for, and strong benefits package. Abercrombie and Fitch is a strong organization headed in the right direction using advanced technology and expanding beyond the borders of the United States. By taking the brand international, allows for a stronger market share and more profit. Great strategy must always be used when expanding beyond an organization’s normal area of control. Government to include federal, state, local, and international will affect potential growth with possible tariffs or other unforeseen expenses. Having the ability to use the unique brand and capabilities of Abercrombie and Fitch will allow them to move into the future with a strong business plan that will bring positive profits. Abercrombie and Fitch mission/vision statement is more than a way to shape the business it is a brand that consumers want. That want allows for Abercrombie and Fitch to remain relevant going forward. Stakeholders are the driving force in any business and shareholders want profits, consumers want products, and employees want a comfortable lifestyle. References Abercrombie and Fitch. (2014). Form 10-K 2014. Retrieved from SEC EDGAR website http://www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml Abercrombie Fitch Begs the Fat Kids for Another Chance. (2013) Business time. Retrieved from http://business.time.com/2013/11/06/abercrombie-fitch-begs-the-fat-kids-for-another-chance/ Abercrombie Fitch Refuses To Make Clothes For Large Women. (2013) Business Insider. Retrieved from http://www.businessinsider.com/abercrombie-wants-thin-customers-2013-5#ixzz2z3gtRZA4 Company Overview 2007. Abercrombie Fitch SWOT Analysis, p. 4, Business Source Complete, EBSCOhost Hitt, Michael A.; Ireland, R. Duane; Hoskisson, Robert E. (2012-01-01). Strategic Management: Concepts and Cases: Competitiveness and Globalization (Page 11). Cengage Textbook. Kindle Edition. SECTION D100 Simon Fraser University. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.sfu.ca/~sheppard/478/syn/1137/G_E_1137.pdf United States Of America: Abercrombie Fitch announces (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.fibre2fashion.com/ news/apparel-news/newsdetails.aspx?news_id=160117

Humorous Wedding Speech by the Groom -- Wedding Toasts Roasts Speeches

Humorous Wedding Speech by the Groom Thank you for your kind words, I am very proud to be your son-in-law; I hope I can live up to your expectations. I would sincerely like to thank you for welcoming me into your family, for bringing up such a lovely daughter, and for giving me your blessing to marry her. In addition. due to the number of phone calls between my wife and her mom, the phone company would also like to thank you both. On this date in history in 1889 the Boer War ended, and maybe after my speech you'll think it's started again, although this day will go down in history as the day you all heard the best ever speech. It will be read shortly by one of my best men. It is said that a great speech has a good beginning, a good ending, and most importantly, the two are as close together as possible. (Have a thick wad of paper in hand) Well tough! (Unfold notes, pause, and smile at all tables) That, of course, was a cracker of a speech of my own worked out for you today, but as I am now married, my wife has handed this to me to read instead. (To the father-in-law) By the way, I haven't forgotten, I'll sign that receipt for you (Produce bit of paper with the writing on saying) Received, one daughter in perfect condition, full- guaranteed. Care note: gets bored easily keep busy with constant supply of chores. Comes complete with all extras. (My favorite’s the nurse’s uniform). Not to be outdone though my dad also has a receipt for my wife to sign. It reads: (Again, pull out anothier bit of paper) Received, one son, sold as seen, no refunds under any circumstances. We've redecorated the room and changed the locks so you're stuck with him. Care Notes: dehydrates easily, top up regularly with b... ...ccasion for both my parents who, as well as putting up with me and pointing me in the right direction, have prepared me well, supported me through my life and taught me the difference between right and wrong, so as that I know which I am enjoying at any given time! A Final and big thankyou goes to our bridesmaids who looked lovely and I thank them all for doing such a wonderful job today. (Give them gifts) (Toast bridesmaids) Ladies and Gentlemen, please stand. I would like to propose a toast to the bridesmaids. Well, I could stand here and give you a load more stale old jokes. but instead I think I’ll leave that to one of my best men who has cut his speech by quite a lot so as not to be Tottenham's first case of foot in mouth disease, just remember he's never been one to let the truth get in the way of a good story. Ladies and gentlemen, the best man.

Educational philosophy Essay

I believe that education is an individual, unique experience for every student who enters a classroom. In order for children to benefit from what schools offer, I think that teachers must fully understand the importance of their job. First, I believe that teachers must consider teaching to be a lifestyle, not a mere forty-hour-a-week job, because a teacher’s goals for his/her students encompass much more than relaying out-of-context facts to passive students. As professionals entrusted with the education of young minds, teachers must facilitate learning and growth academically, personally, and ethically. By providing a quality education to each individual in one’s classroom, a teacher equips children with the tools necessary for success in life. In order to accomplish these lofty goals, I think it is important first to establish a mutually respectful, honest rapport with students — a relationship in which communication is of the highest priority. Through this relationship, a fair, democratic environment based on trust and caring can be established in the classroom, making it possible to interact confidently and safely in an academic setting. Once this foundation is established, the educator has already accomplished a major goal: the ethical characteristics of equality; open, honest communication; and trust have been emphasized and put into practice without having to preach to students. Demonstrating these ethically correct behaviors in the classroom and expecting students to model them prepares them for adult interaction and survival in the future. Academic learning must begin with motivation and inspiration. Students deserve an educator’s passion for both the subject at hand and learning as a whole. Teaching and learning become a simultaneous journey for both the teacher and students when students’ energy is aroused by a teacher’s genuine intensity for learning, because everyone is ready and willing to participate in active learning. To achieve active learning, a teacher must demonstrate enthusiasm and express confidence in the students’ abilities to learn and be successful. Employing constructivist methods of teaching in one’s classroom forces students to take an active role in their education by making choices and assuming responsibility for intelligent inquiry and discovery. For instance, discussions, projects, and experiments ensure student achievement and allow students and the teacher to discover individual student’s preferences and strengths. This approach facilitates differentiated activities for each student’s distinctive ambitions, making the subject more relevant to every student’s life. Personal growth is accomplished when a teacher adopts a mentoring role. Displaying warmth and compassion shows students that teachers love them and are empathic, feeling human beings. One-on-one mentoring involves personal conversations about goals, and taking time to share ideas and experiences. To be a mentor to every student, a teacher must project positivity, exhibit flexibility and confidence, set high expectations for oneself, and demonstrate fairness and consistency. In doing so, students can see appropriate adult behaviors first-hand and begin to emulate them as they mature. I believe that all children have the ability to learn and the right to a quality education. All youths, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, and capabilities should have the opportunity to learn from professional, well-informed teachers who are sophisticated and knowledgeable, both in their area of expertise and life. Certainly, every child has different learning styles and aptitudes; however, by having a personal relationship with every student, a teacher can give each an equal chance of success. By recognizing every student’s potential and having separate, individual goals for each, a teacher can accommodate personal needs and abilities and encourage the pursuit of academic aspirations. I think that teaching and learning are reciprocal processes. When teachers nurture individual talents in each child, educators can build self-esteem and may encourage a lifelong skill. By supporting these special abilities, teachers can, for example, guide students’ research, and students can, in turn, enlighten teachers about subjects in which they may not be as knowledgeable. This mutual respect for individual skills cultivates a professional academic relationship, leading to a give-and-take educational alliance. This liaison allows students to feel that they are on equal intellectual ground with their teachers, thus creating a strong academic atmosphere. In addition to having a reciprocal relationship with one’s students, it is vitally important for teachers to form partnerships with fellow educators. Solid communication among teachers will promote the sharing of ideas and methods and provide a network of support. By working as an educational team, teachers will continue to develop their craft and give the best education possible to their students. In choosing to become a teacher, I have made the commitment to myself and my future students to be the best academic, personal, and ethical role model I can be. It is my goal to have a mutually enriching teaching career by keeping an open mind and continually communicating with my peers and students. I am prepared to rise to the challenges of teaching in the 21st century, and I promise to try to provide an honest, well-rounded education to every student I encounter.

Minority Shareholder Watchdog Group - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 10 Words: 3116 Downloads: 1 Date added: 2017/06/26 Category Business Essay Type Research paper Level High school Did you like this example? Introduction There are two types of shareholders, namely the majority shareholders and the minority shareholders. Minority shareholders refer to those who own less than 50% of the companyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s shares and thus do not possess voting power in the company. Generally, those who have shares in a company must follow the majority rule. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "Minority Shareholder Watchdog Group" essay for you Create order However, the law has granted several rights to the minority shareholder to protect their interests. There are three basic rights of minority shareholders, namely, right to seek information, right to voice opinion and right to seek remedy. The minority shareholder will also have the right not to be compelled to take over more shares without his consent in writing. This is provided under section 33(3) of Companies Act 1965.[1] Besides, the minority shareholder will also have the right to make application of winding up the company. This can be found under section 218 of the Companies Act[2]. Next, the minority shareholder is also granted with the right to seek relief in cases of oppression or unfair discrimination.[3] Section 181 of Companies Act 1965 states that, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Any member of a company may apply to the Court for an order on the ground that the affairs of the company are being conducted in a manner oppressive to one or more of the members or that some act of the company has been done which unfairly discriminates against one or more of the membersà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ .[4] Besides, the minority shareholder will also have the right to request to the Court to make an order to call an Annual General Meeting. This is stipulated under section 143(4) of the Companies Act 1965[5]. On the other hand, section 148(1) of the Companies Act also clearly indicates that the minority shareholder will also have the right to attend any general meeting of the Company and to speak and vote on any resolution before the meeting.[6] Furthermore, section 149(1) of the Companies Act further states that the minority shareholder appoint another person or persons as his proxy to attend and vote instead of himself at a meeting of the Company.[7] On the other hand, the minority shareholders may also exert pressure on the companyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s directors to be more accountable and transparent.[8] Generally, all shareholders, including minority shareholders should also have the r ight to seek remedy when their rights have been violated. In Malaysia, the Minority Shareholder Watchdog Group which was formed on 30th August 2000 provides protection to minority shareholders of public companies over their interests. What is Minority Shareholder Watchdog Group The Minority Shareholder Watchdog Group (MSWG) was established in Malaysia on 30th August 2000. It was formed to promote and protect the interests of minority shareholders in public company through shareholder activism. Through years, the Minority Shareholder Watchdog Group has now become an independent research organization on matters regarding corporate governance. It helps to enables minority shareholders of public companies to become aware of their basic rights as shareholders such as right to seek information, right to voice opinion and right to seek remedy.[9] The right to seek information refers to the right to know about the companyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s price sensitive information, right to be sent the Notice of General Meetings, right to have a copy of annual report and audited accounts, right to inspect the Minutes of General Meetings and right to know what is happening in the company. On the other hand, the right to voice opinion refers to those rights such as right to attend general meetings, right to request the court to order the company to call a general meeting, right to be heard during shareholdersà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ meeting and right to vote and elect directors and auditors. Next, the right of minority shareholders to seek remedy is provided under section 181 of the Companies Act 1965[10]. Besides, the MSWG also assists minority shareholders to raise issue of concerns to the companyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s board of directors. Furthermore, the MSWG also organizes various educational programs for retail shareholders.[11] On the other hand, the objectives of the Minority Shareholder Watchdog Group are laid down in its Memorandum and Articles of Association. There are several objectives being laid down. Firstly, the MSWG was formed to act as the Forum for minority shareholders to share their experiences concerning Malaysian Code in issue such as Corporate Governance, the Securities Commissionà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s Disclosure-Based Regulations, and the Capital Markets Master plans. Next, the second objective of MSWG is to develop and promote the corporate governance in educational aspects. Furthermore, it was also set up for the purpose of becoming the Think-Tank and Resource Centre in Malaysia which deals with the interest of minority and matters of corporate governance. Besides, it provides platform for the management of public listed companies to carry out collective shareholder activism on questionable practices. Next, another objective of MSWG is to help in monitoring any breaches and non-compliance in practices of corporate governance by public listed companies. Besides, it was set up to initiate reports to regulatory authorities.[12] Next, there are four founding organizations of Minority Shareholder Watchdog Group. The founding organizations are the organizations that provided the start-up fund to the Minority Shareholder Watchdog Group. The first founding organization is the Armed Forces Fund Board. It was established in August 1972 with the aims of giving retirement and other advantages to the Armed Forces members and to ensure that members of volunteer forces are entitled to take part in a savings scheme.[13] Secondly, another founding organization of MSWG is the National Equity Corporation which was incorporated on 17th March 1978. It was formed to act as an important tool of the Governmentà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s New Economic Policy with the purpose of promoting Bumiputeraà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s share ownership in the corporate sector and developing chances for suitable Bumiputera professionals to involve in the wealth creation and management. Thirdly, the next founding organization is the Social Security Organization (S OCSO) which was formed in year 1971 under the Ministry of Human Resources. Its aims are to ensure and promote occupational health and safety. Lastly, the fourth founding organization is the Pilgrimage Board. It was established in November 1962 with the purpose of enabling Muslims to save their money gradually. The savings can be used for expenditure during pilgrimage or other beneficial purposes. Besides, the Pilgrimage Board also encourages Muslims to participate actively in investment activities which are permissible in Islam through their savings and safeguards the welfare of Muslims during their pilgrimage through different types of facilities and services provided. Today, the Minority Shareholder Watchdog Group is basically funded by the Capital Market Development Fund and also from the sales of its own products and services. [14] Roles and Objectives of Minority Shareholder Watchdog Group The Minority Shareholder Watchdog Group (MSWG) was setup in August 2000[15] and it is not a profit based body. Its aim was to promote and encourage shareholder activism, especially among the least cared and minority shareholders. In Malaysia, MSWG generally works and services people with the objective of preserving shareholder rights, minimize risks to shareholders and eventually help to boost up the value of the capital market. Recently, the MSWG had actively participate in all kind of activities in which issues relevant to minority shareholders and retail investors had been highlighted and given proper attentions. By doing this, their credibility had been built up. The MSWG has also play important role in leading initiative for the development and enlargement of important institution such as Best Practices for Institutional Shareholders. The MSWG had conducts annually surveys such as the Corporate Governance Survey, Directors Remuneration Survey and others. It is therefore able to render proxy services for the minority and retail investors.[16] The M SWG is moving towards becoming a totally independent and self-sustainable institution that stand strong the rights of minority shareholders.The obvious role of MSWG is to enhance Shareholder Activism and Protecting Minority Interest and at the same time develop and propagate the education perspective of corporate governance. It also acts as a platform to start up and discuss on unethical, immoral behaviors and questionable practices for the benefit of the shareholders as a whole. In addition, decision making process in public-listed companies also heavily influenced by the motive and direction of MSWG. MSWG hence works as a guidance to monitor the breaches of statutory duties and non-compliance in corporate governance practices. As mentioned above, it is the forum for minority shareholders to share their experiences in the context of the Malaysian Code on the Capital MarketsMaster plans and Corporate Governance. Besides, MSWG works well as information gathering center for upho lding minority interest and concerning the management of cooperative matters in Malaysia. In the meanwhile, MSWG acts as check and balance in the sense that to develop and spread the corporate governanceà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s educational aspect. It does not only works as spokesman for regulatory authorities but also acts as an effective deterrent to abusive forces and at same time prohibits activities that could have exploit the interest of the minority shareholders. Lastly, The MSWG provides service at minimum fee which enables investorsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ proxy advisory and also proxy voting services.[17] In short, MSWG normally act to protect the interest of minority shareholder and even provides them remedy if they face any defect or disadvantages in the share transactions in Malaysia. Corporate Governance of MSWG The Minority Shareholder Watchdog Group (MSWG) was established to guard the interests of minority investors through shareholder policy. Ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s o ne avenue of market discipline to encourage sensible governance amongst public listed corporations with the target of raising investor price over time. MSWGs objectives are started in an exceedingly Charter beneath its memo and Articles of Association. The first one is to become the Forum on minority shareholdersà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ experiences within the context of the Malaysian Code on company Governance, the Securities Commissionà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s Disclosure-Based regulations, and also the Capital Markets Masterplans. Besides that, to become the Think-Tank and Resource Centre for minority interest and company governance matters in Malaysia. On top of that MSWG aiming to develop and circulate the educational aspects of company governance as well as in becoming the platform to initiate collective investor policy on questionable practices by management of public listed corporations. In order to achieve the objectives MSWG also need to influence the choice creating method public ly listed corporations because the leader for minority shareholdersà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ legitimate rights and interests. Moreover monitoring for breaches and non-compliance in company governance practices by public listed corporations is also one of the objectives. Lastly, it is to initiate wherever applicable, reports to restrictive authorities and reworking MSWG into a good deterrent of such events or activities that may be against the interest of the minority shareholders. The MSWG was discovered to make awareness among minority shareholders of their 3 basis rights to hunt data, voice opinion and obtain redress.[18] In recognition of its public mandate to spearhead investor policy that is one in all the key tenets of company governance the CMDF has been supporting the MSWG since 2005. To date, the MSWG has been productive in increase their quality by their active participation in AGMs and EGMs, wherever the MSWG highlight issues and problems relevant to retail and minority share holders. The MSWG has conjointly led an industry initiative for the event of Best Practices for Institutional Shareholders. The MSWG conducts yearly surveys Malaysia public listed corporations, like the Directors Remuneration Survey, company Governance Survey and also the Dividend Survey, and is ready to supply proxy services for minority and retail investors. The MSWG is functioning towards turning into a completely independent and self-sustainable organization representing the rights of minority shareholders.[19] With Malaysiaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s push towards responsible investment, MSWG is presently spearheading the formulation and development of the Malaysian Code for Institutional Investors (Code) in line with one amongst the recommendations of the company Governance Blueprint 2011 (CG Blueprint), that made public strategic initiatives geared toward reinforcing self and market discipline. The Code is meant to administer institutional investor steerage on effective exercise of situation responsibilities to confirm delivery of property worth to their final beneficiaries or purchasers. Institutional investors are inspired to be the signatories of the Code that is expected to be launched by the second quarter of 2014. In yet one more development, MSWG has been appointed by the Securities Commission (SC) to be the domestic ranking body in Malaysia to assess Malaysian PLCs victimisation the ASEAN CG scorecard methodology wherever the highest fifty corporations would be mentioned within the ASEAN CG Country Report and hierarchical below the Malaysia-ASEAN CG Index 2013.[20] This appointment was in recognition of MSWGà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s record in closing the assessment of CG practices among PLCs in Malaysia through the mcg Index since 2009. The findings of the Malaysia-ASEAN CG Index 2013 showed that the common base score for the highest one hundred corporations in Malaysia had raised to seventy five.77 points in 2013 from sixty eight.2 points within t he previous year reflective an overall rising in CG awareness among the listed corporations. In line with the Governmentà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s agenda of promoting corporations with good environment, Social and Governance (ESG), the card has enclosed parameters that measure such disclosures that I see as pertinent because it is accustomed gauge and verify the ESG levels and gaps which will be addressed. As for all, MSWG is also promoting the publication of AGM minutes to produce data on the Conduct of AGMs so the amount of transparency and answerability in corporations is stepped-up.[21] MARKET RESPONSE TO MSWG ACTIVISM The Minority Shareholder Watchdog Group policy is to induce the manner of the companies in conduct the power of ownership so that companies expand and apply successful strategies and high standards of governance, thereby maximizing returns for owners. (Hendrikse, 2004). The activism comes as shareholders that rewarded companies for asset growth, now are demanding e arnings growth, better stock performance and richer dividends. Shareholder activism is a broad concept with many forms. There are a wide variety of actions and behaviour that could justifiably fall within the ambit of shareholder activism. However, no matter which form is chosen the end-game is to effect change; whether in management, the capital and asset structure or strategic direction. The MSWG-targeted firms earn significantly higher positive returns as compared to non-targeted firms. Thus, the company will analyze the reactions of share prices. The analysis will begin from day-0 . Our event window begins on day à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Å"30 and ends on day +5 to determine the impact over a short event window, while this window is extended to day +30, +60 and 1 year to gauge impacts over a longer event window. The company will compute raw buy à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Å"and-hold returns [22]as well as market-adjusted returns[23], the latter of which is the value-weighted KLCI Index[24] returns ov er the respective event windows. In the year 2013 was the second year MSWG corporate with the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard[25] to acess 826 Malaysian public listed companies. Earlier on, MSWG had used Malaysian Corporate Governance (MCG) Index Scorecard in 2009 and 2011 but it was later alter to Asean countries agreed to use a standard methodology that could be applied across the whole region. In the nutshell, MSWG targets those firms with high return and high levels of institutional shareholdings. It is targeted firms with high levels of cash holdings and relatively lower amounts of debts on their balance sheets. In addition, with easy cash flow and agency cost theorie by applying equity returns data, in searching for companies [26]with good return and reliable to earn profit in short term and over the long run as compared to non-targeted firms. [1] Companies Act 1965, s33(3) [2] Companies Act 1965, s218 [3] Tommy Thomas, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"Protection of Minority Shareholdersà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ [1984] 1 CLJ 10 [4] Companies Act 1965, s181 [5] Companies Act 1965, s143(4) [6] Companies Act 1965, s148(1) [7] Companies Act 1965, s149(1) [8] Abdul Wahab Jaafar Sidek, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"Protecting Minority Shareholders during Times of Financial Turmoilà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ https://www.asli.com.my/DOCUMENTS/capital market summit/Mr Abdul Wahab Jaafar Sidek.pdf accessed 4th August 2014 [9] Abdul Wahab Jaafar Sidek, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"Equitable Treatment of Minority Shareholdersà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ https://www.oecd.org/daf/ca/corporategovernanceprinciples/41076424.pdf accessed 4th August 2014 [10] Companies Act 1965, s181 [11] Abdul Wahab Jaafar Sidek, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"Protecting Minority Shareholders during Times of Financial Turmoilà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ https://www.asli.com.my/DOCUMENTS/capital market summit/Mr Abdul Wah ab Jaafar Sidek.pdf accessed 4th August 2014 [12] Minority Shareholder Watchdog Group, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"Objective, Vision and Missionà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ https://www.mswg.org.my/page.php?pid=85menu=sub accessed 10th August 2014 [13] Lembaga Tabung Angkatan Tentera, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"Objektifà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ https://www.ltat.org.my/webltat/index.html accessed 4th August 2014 [14] Minority Shareholder Watchdog Group, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"Who Are Weà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ https://www.mswg.org.my/page.php?pid=36menu=sub accessed 4th August 2014 [15] Minority Shareholderà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s Watchdog Group, Dana Pembangunan Pasaran Modal, Capital Market Development Fund. To date, the MSWG has been successful in building up their credibility by their active participation in AGMs and EGMs, where the MSWG highlight concerns and issues relevant to retail and minority shareholders. [16] OECD Investment Policy Reviews OECD Investment Policy Reviews: Malaysia 2013, pg 173, Paragraph 5.3.The MSWG has been pivotal in providing a platform for providing a platform for collective shareholder activism on questionable practices by management of public. [17] The Impact of minority Shareholder watchdog group activism on the performance of targeted firms in Malaysia, Rashid Ameer and Rashidad Abdul Rahman, pg 76. These subscribers are given advice on how to ask questions and raise issues at AGMs or EGMs. The modus operandi of the MSWG is to write letters known as MSWG letters to corporate secretaries in targeted firms to highlight major issues for clarification or to solicit the details from the board in forthcoming AGMs or EGMs [18] Rashid Ameer and Rashidah Abdul Rahman, THE IMPACT OF MINORITY SHAREHOLDER WATCHDOG GROUP ACTIVISM ON THE PERFORMANCE OF TARGETED FIRMS IN MALAYSIA (web.usm.my 2009) https://web.usm.my/journal/aamjaf/Vol 5-1-2009/5-1-3.pdf accessed 6 August 14 [19] Minority Shareholders Watchdog Group (cmdf.org.my ) https://www.cmdf.org.my/364_221_221/Web/WebPag e/Minority-Shareholder-s-Watchdog-Group/Minority-Shareholder-s-Watchdog-Group.html accessed e.g. 6 January 14 [20] Code for institutional investors (cgmalaysia.blogspot.com 2014) https://cgmalaysia.blogspot.com/2014/01/code-for-institutional-investors.html accessed 6 August 14 [21] (mswg.org.my ) https://www.mswg.org.my/page.php?pid=141action=previewmenu=main accessed 6 August 14 [22] is a passive investment technique in which shareholders continue to hold onto their stocks, regardless of market conditions. Its an interesting approach, with some market theory to back it up. [23] A concept that refines an investments return by measuring how much risk is involved in producing that return, which is generally expressed as a number or rating. Risk-adjusted returns are applied to individual securities and investment funds and portfolios. [24] The FBMKLCIwill be part of the FTSE Bursa MalaysiaIndexSeries. It is calculated based on globally acceptedindexmethodology, which is transparent to inspire confidence. Theindexwill be computed based on free float adjusted market capitalization. [25] ACMF and the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard [26] There are 35 firms in which the MSWG have tried to initiate board changes and 15 firms in which MSWG stopped merger and acquisition deals.