WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) shares are back in the spotlight this week as shareholders gear up for Friday's annual general meeting (AGM).
And boy, is it sure to be a big one, given the timeline of recent events.
Shares have curled up from their October lows, racing from roughly $99 apiece then to trade at $138.01 at the time of writing.
The market is foaming at the mouth to hear WiseTech's response to the recent controversies and what tone the logistics software giant will set for its future. Here's what to expect.
Why is this AGM critical for WiseTech shares?
Friday's virtual-only AGM has sparked criticism from the Australian Shareholders' Association (ASA), which called the format "arrogant".
The ASA said that holding the meeting online limits shareholders' ability to engage directly with the board. Why the sudden move to go virtual?
One might speculate, but the business is facing scrutiny over governance issues, executive remuneration, and now, succession planning following the resignation of its founder and former CEO Richard White in October. This may or may not have played a role, but it still didn't impress the ASA.
White's name dominated the financial headlines for a few weeks back in October, where a string of personal conducts was brought into the spotlight.
WiseTech shares sold off sharply in response to the flurry, hitting the lows outlined in the introduction of this article.
White – also the company's largest shareholder – then stepped down after a further series of personal controversies came to light.
But the WiseTech founder still remains an adviser with a compensation package comparable to his former CEO role.
In that light, shareholders should expect to hear more about the board's long-term plans for leadership and how it will handle ongoing legal and governance challenges.
What issues will be front and centre?
In my opinion, the top three themes investors will be seeking answers to are the following:
1. Executive remuneration
AGMs are where a number of resolutions are handled for a corporation. One is executive and board remuneration.
The ASA has recommended shareholders vote against the remuneration report and proposed equity incentives for director Maree Isaacs.
It has concerns about the short-term incentives lacking future planning. If this is the case, it could mean the board's remuneration won't be approved. This will need a vote, of course, from those who own WiseTech shares.
2. Succession planning
The company will likely present updates on its leadership, particularly the search for a permanent CEO to replace interim chief Andrew Cartledge.
The AGM will also provide an opportunity for WiseTech to outline its plans for keeping the business growing under this new leadership.
3. Class action
Although not on the formal AGM agenda, law firm Phi Finney Mcdonald brought class action proceedings against WiseTech this month. The class action concerns alleged misleading FY20 guidance.
This is potentially a raincloud the company might want to address. I would watch closely for any comments on how it plans to address the legal challenge.
WiseTech shares takeaway
WiseTech shares have regained ground amid a string of recent controversies, but Friday's AGM will surely be a standout.
The company will likely address the recent dramas surrounding its governance and succession planning, now with White (mostly) out of the picture.
An upgrade to its financial guidance would be a nice cherry on top for shareholders. But we shall see.
The stock is up 108% in the past year.
