Published On: October 6, 2023Categories: Investor Relations, Minimum Standards, Strategy0.3 min read
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Introduction: The Power of Third-Party News Publishers

In today’s digital age, the art of telling an investment story extends far beyond the confines of a company’s website or annual report. Standard 14 of the Minimum Voluntary Standards of Online Investor Relations highlights the importance of leveraging third-party news publishers for effective investor relations.

A Strategic Misstep: The Danger of Disconnect

Unfortunately, many companies find themselves completely disconnected from their audiences. This often happens when third-party portals, such as news sites, stockbrokers, or stock exchanges, dominate the narrative about a company. They may capture audience’s attention, inadvertently creating a distance between the company and its stakeholders.

This disconnection can be a strategic misstep in the modern digital landscape. A robust investor relations strategy must focus on fostering a secure two-way connection with investors and wider audiences.

The Power of Connection: Defending Against Fake News

When companies nurture a direct connection with their audiences, the benefits are manifold. I’ve witnessed instances where a connected audience has stepped up to defend a company against the spread of real-time fake news. This defence is born out of familiarity with the company and trust in the information it provides.

Reclaiming Attention: The Role of Third-Party Publishers

Standard 14 champions the notion of companies reclaiming audience attention. By consistently publishing complete, timely, and meaningful corporate information across multiple digital channels, companies can enhance their online presence, making it more impactful than the information provided by third-party websites.

Engaging with third-party news publishers also has another critical advantage. It ensures journalists have access to accurate information from the company when drafting their commentary, thereby reducing the risk of misinformation or bias.

Conclusion: Embracing the Battle for Attention

In essence, Standard 14 is all about the battle for attention in a crowded digital world. Listed companies have a natural advantage in this battle, but they need to leverage it effectively. Engaging with third-party news publishers is a strategic move that allows companies to reposition themselves at the center of the conversation and reinforce their connection with their audiences.

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THE MINIMUM VOLUNTARY STANDARDS OF

Online Investor Relations Practices

Building effective online investor relations in emerging African markets presents unique governance challenges for public companies. Our guidelines aim to help these companies leverage their stock exchange listings and overcome communication hurdles.

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