Frequently Asked Questions
Online general assemblies refer to corporate decision-making meetings held via digital and internet platforms, eliminating the need for physical presence. Benefits include increased shareholder access and participation, significant reduction in costs and time, enhanced transparency and activity tracking, high security for authentication and voting, and flexibility in unforeseen circumstances.
In Iran, online general assemblies are governed by commercial law, company bylaws, and particularly the regulations of the Securities and Exchange Organization. Key requirements include precise shareholder authentication (e.g., via the SEJAM system), adherence to legal quorum and voting majorities, preparation and registration of valid electronic minutes, and protection of minority shareholder rights. Choosing a platform compliant with these laws and consulting legal experts is essential.
The process of holding an online general assembly includes three main stages: 1. Planning and preparation (platform selection, agenda formulation, shareholder notification and training). 2. Execution phase (managing login and authentication, presenting reports, Q&A management, electronic voting, and technical support). 3. Post-assembly phase (collecting results, preparing and registering minutes, archiving documents, and gathering feedback).
A suitable platform should have an advanced authentication system, high-quality live streaming and interactive capabilities, a secure and auditable electronic voting system, Q&A functionality, comprehensive document management and reporting tools, robust technical support, and full compatibility with various devices and browsers. These features ensure a positive user experience and regulatory compliance.
The future of online general assemblies is predicted to see wider global adoption, deeper integration with emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) for data analysis and blockchain for enhanced voting security and transparency. Additionally, hybrid models, which offer both physical and online attendance options, will become more prevalent, leading to cultural shifts in corporate governance.
