In France, shareholders eligible for being awarded double voting rights are

In France, shareholders eligible for being awarded double voting rights are
A . founding shareholders during an IPO
B . long-standing shareholders of at least two years.
C . minority shareholders that are employee representatives

Answer: B

Explanation:

In France, shareholders eligible for being awarded double voting rights are long-standing shareholders of at least two years. This policy aims to encourage long-term investment and shareholder loyalty.

Loyalty Incentive: The double voting rights are granted to shareholders who have held their shares for at least two years. This incentivizes long-term holding and aligns shareholders’ interests with the company’s long-term success.

Strengthening Governance: By rewarding long-term shareholders with additional voting power, companies can strengthen their governance structures. Long-term shareholders are more likely to be interested in sustainable growth and responsible governance.

Legal Framework: This practice is embedded in the French legal framework under the Florange Act, which automatically grants double voting rights to shares held for at least two years unless the company’s articles of association specify otherwise.

Reference: MSCI ESG Ratings Methodology (2022) – Highlights the mechanisms in place in different jurisdictions to promote long-term investment through measures such as double voting rights.

ESG-Ratings-Methodology-Exec-Summary (2022) – Discusses the importance of shareholder engagement and long-term investment incentives in corporate governance.