DealLawyers.com Blog

We recently posted the latest “Understanding Activism with John & J.T.” podcast. This time, John and J.T. Ho were joined by Kai Liekefett, who co-chairs Sidley’s Shareholder Activism and Corporate Defense practice. Kai’s practice focuses exclusively on shareholder activism campaigns, proxy fights and hostile takeovers, and over the past five years, he’s defended over 150 proxy contests globally and approximately 25% of all U.S. late-stage proxy fights, more than any other defense attorney in the world.

Topics covered during this 26-minute podcast include:

– Why many activists supported Donald Trump over Kamala Harris
– What changes to the SEC’s approach to proxy advisor regulation, UPC, and Rule 14a-8 might mean for activism
– Implications of potential changes in the antitrust merger review and enforcement environment
– Impact of disruptions resulting from tariffs and other unconventional economic policies
– Potential changes in companies targeted for activism and activist tactics

Note that during the podcast, Kai comments on the implications of a new SEC chair on the agency’s approach to activism. They recorded this podcast on November 22, 2024, prior to President-Elect Trump’s appointment of Paul Atkins to serve in that capacity.

John and JT’s objective with this podcast series is to share perspectives on key issues and developments in shareholder activism from representatives of both public companies and activists. They’re continuing to record new podcasts, and they’re full of practical and engaging insights from true experts – so stay tuned!

Also, check out John’s post on TheCorporateCounsel.net Blog yesterday on FTI’s Q4 “Activism Vulnerability Report” highlighting recent activism trends and notable activist campaigns.

– Meredith Ervine