The Shareholder Activism Annual Review 2025

The Shareholder Activism Annual Review, produced in association with Olshan Frome Wolosky and Sidley Austin presents definitive qualitative and quantitative shareholder activism analysis.

With over 1,000 companies globally facing off against activists in 2024, the U.S. market saw a surge in activity with almost 600 public campaigns recorded, up 7% from 2023 and a 16% increase when compared to 2022. The report also tells how activists targeting U.S. boards secured fewer board seats in 2024.

Among the other headline talking points:

• CEOs are facing unprecedented pressure to deliver or leave
• Activists are challenging low valuations in Europe, using new levers to push for reforms in Japan
• Upticks in M&A expected to drive a new wave of activism

The report also ranks both the most prolific activist and activist short sellers over the past 12 months, and features industry insights from experts at our headline sponsors.