The Flaw in the Emerging AI Activist Playbook

In their latest Agenda article, co-chairs of Sidley's Shareholder Activism and Corporate Defense practice, Derek Zaba and Kai H.E. Liekefett, examine how artificial intelligence is emerging as a new focus of shareholder activism and explain why AI-related critiques are unlikely to succeed without evidence of a broader governance failure. The authors discuss the governance considerations underlying AI-focused activist campaigns and outline practical steps boards can take to strengthen oversight, communicate AI strategy, and demonstrate effective AI governance to investors.