Since COVID-19 began adversely impacting the global equity markets, we have been in close communication with clients, investors and bank analysts. Based on these conversations, we present below communication priorities and high-level recommendations for investor relations teams while COVID-19 remains a threat to a company\u2019s business performance.<\/p>\n
Companies can expect to receive questions on many of the subject areas we address from a number of stakeholders. Senior management and IROs should be prepared to answer their questions as thoroughly as possible, based on information that is currently available to them.<\/p>\n
In many cases, answers to most questions would include a discussion of material non-public information. Hence, consider widely and simultaneously disclosing the relevant information in the form of a press release, regulatory filing, a posting to your company\u2019s\u00a0 investor relations website, or a publicly-accessible conference call. With regard to the IR website, consider a status update on the landing page, being careful to notify the Market whenever you update its content. As one example, we are, in some cases, encouraging clients to supplement a traditional press release with a letter from the CEO that puts a COVID-19 business update in a controlled context where you can also reinforce your people-centric approach to business or ESG-related messaging as applicable. Such a letter could be posted to your company\u2019s website, leveraged across social media platforms, distributed to media contacts and shared with employees.<\/p>\n
Generally, we advise proactively communicating any current material impact or expected impact from COVID-19 as well as subsequent events, such as the sharp decline in oil prices. If you do not \u201cspeak\u201d, others will \u201cspeak\u201d for you, whether it is the sellside or financial media. Accordingly, proactively communicate, frame your company\u2019s strengths as well as explain measures being implemented to mitigate potential risks associated with the pandemic. Of note, a number of our clients in the travel sector have taken these steps.<\/p>\n
We stand ready to provide advice and support, as needed.<\/p>\n
Communication priorities and recommendations<\/strong><\/p>\n\n
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