Computershare Finance Company

Computershare is a global financial services company specializing in corporate trust, stock transfer, employee equity plans, proxy solicitation, and stakeholder communications. Founded in Melbourne, Australia, in 1978, it has grown to become a significant player in the administration of shareholder and employee ownership services worldwide.

At its core, Computershare acts as a registrar and transfer agent for companies listed on stock exchanges. This means they maintain records of share ownership, process stock transfers when shares are bought or sold, and distribute dividends to shareholders. They also manage corporate actions such as stock splits, mergers, and acquisitions, ensuring accurate and timely communication with shareholders throughout these processes.

Employee equity plan management is another crucial aspect of Computershare’s business. They administer share option plans, employee stock purchase plans (ESPPs), and other equity-based compensation programs for companies of all sizes. This involves managing employee accounts, handling exercises and sales of shares, and providing reporting and tax documentation. Their technology platform and expertise help companies streamline the administration of their employee equity plans, improving efficiency and compliance.

Computershare’s proxy solicitation services assist companies in communicating with shareholders regarding important corporate matters requiring a vote. They manage the entire proxy voting process, from distributing proxy materials to collecting and tabulating votes. This ensures that companies can effectively engage with their shareholders and achieve quorum for important meetings.

Beyond these core services, Computershare also provides stakeholder communications solutions. This includes managing shareholder inquiries, printing and mailing shareholder materials, and providing online access to shareholder information. Their aim is to facilitate clear and efficient communication between companies and their shareholders, fostering transparency and engagement.

Computershare operates in numerous countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. This global reach allows them to serve multinational corporations with complex shareholder ownership structures. They are regulated by financial authorities in each jurisdiction where they operate, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

In recent years, Computershare has invested heavily in technology to enhance its services and improve the shareholder experience. Their online platforms provide shareholders with convenient access to their account information, dividend statements, and voting materials. They have also implemented advanced data analytics to improve the efficiency of their operations and provide insights to their corporate clients.

Computershare’s position in the financial services industry is largely dependent on the number of publicly traded companies and the complexity of shareholder ownership regulations. As a key intermediary between corporations and their shareholders, Computershare plays a vital role in facilitating corporate governance and promoting efficient capital markets. They continuously adapt to evolving market trends and regulatory changes to maintain their competitive edge and provide valuable services to their clients.