A coalition of UK pension schemes, managing more than £150bn in assets and representing over 11 million members, has launched the Governance for Growth Investor Campaign (GGIC), aiming to advocate for stronger corporate governance across UK capital markets.
The initiative, chaired by Railpen, GGIC supports reforms that include stronger shareholder rights, increased transparency, and a focus on long-term value creation. The campaign coincides with the UK government’s Financial Services Growth and Competitiveness Strategy and the formation of a Listings Taskforce to promote capital markets development.
“Today’s launch comes at a vital moment for the UK’s capital markets and economy,” said Caroline Escott, head of investment stewardship at Railpen. “Our campaign group of leading UK pension funds will put the evidence-based, ‘governance for growth’ case to policymakers and highlight how good governance goes hand in hand with a growing economy and thriving capital markets.”
The campaign outlines four areas of focus: securing pension schemes’ participation in policymaking, bridging public and private market trajectories, promoting UK governance standards internationally, and supporting company growth through investment stewardship. Its immediate priority is input on the Draft Audit Reform and Corporate Governance Bill.
“Strong governance shouldn’t be viewed as a barrier to growth but a catalyst for it,” said Wyn Francis, chief investment officer at Brightwell. “Well-run companies that are transparent and accountable are more likely to succeed over the long-term. That’s how we deliver sustainable returns for members and support a thriving UK economy.”
“We want to work with ministers to help change the mood music on the UK and tell an optimistic story that gets people excited about investing in Britain because of its governance standards,” Escott added.
Participating schemes intend to engage with government, regulators, and stakeholders to advance the campaign’s objectives through collaborative dialogue and evidence-based recommendations.
For more information, visit the GCIC website.