1. I have attended several AGMs over the years. I estimate that I have attended around 10 AGMs since buying my first stocks as a student.

2. AGMs are generally well-organized and structured. Shareholders are provided with prior notice of the meeting, including relevant documents such as annual reports and proxy forms. During the AGM, the company’s management presents key financial and operational highlights, along with their strategic plans. Shareholders can raise concerns to the senior management and the board of directors, and vote on resolutions. We may even get to indulge in a buffet at the end of the AGM!

3. I think the primary purpose of AGMs is to have the active participation of shareholders in the company and provide an opportunity for us to express our voice, engage with management, so that we can make informed decisions on our shareholdings. It also serves as an important platform for companies to remain accountable to their shareholders by sharing company’s strategy, achievements, challenges, and plans.

4. Yes, AGMs have had a lasting impact on me. One memorable highlight was the opportunity to directly interact with the management and other shareholders in a casual, less formal setting during a buffet at the end of one AGMs I attended. This has allowed me to gain valuable and detailed insights into the day-to-day cross-border operations of the company and understand the unique challenges that the company faces.

5. AGMs are typically held during office hours which may pose challenges for investors who have full-time jobs. Consideration could be given to schedule AGMs at more convenient times, such as evenings or weekends, to allow for greater shareholder participation.