Fair Disclosure Prompts Firms to Reevaluate European Information

The Securities and Exchange Commission's recent Fair Disclosure Regulation has prompted U.S. fund managers to demand more accurate reporting from European companies, according to a study of U.S. fund managers by Broadgate Consultants of New York.

Quality of disclosure was a key concern of fund managers, according to the study, which surveyed 36 fund managers from investment firms representing more than $2 trillion in assets. Although 59 percent of the fund managers reported that they intend to increase European equity investments over the next year, many indicated in the survey that they are dissatisfied with the way European corporations communicate with U.S. investors, especially regarding mergers.

Information about the progress and benefits of mergers needs to be provided continuously and more accurately, according to those surveyed. Investors require more detailed post-merger disclosure of the benefits and opportunities of the merger, according to the study.

Seventy-five percent of respondents said that European companies provide less information than U.S. companies and are less likely to provide effective earnings guidance.

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