Latest Features from ICSA Chartered Secretary Magazine

Flexible Framework

Bernadette Barber assesses the implications of the new UK Corporate Governance Code for business, and considers whether it is better to follow the spirit rather than the letter of the Code.

Revision summary

The new UK Corporate Governance Code, (previously the Combined Code), was published on 28 May and will apply to financial years commencing on or after 29 June 2010.

The cutting edge

Launching a major fundraising exercise such as an Initial Public Offering (IPO) can be a complicated process. In the volatility of the current market, any such project is even more fraught. Two major concerns are the cost of the exercise and the chance of lower-than-expected takeup. But, can innovations in technology reduce these risks, in particular, the so-called electronic IPO?

All things to all people

Mark Wearden explores the role and responsibilities of trust secretary in the NHS.

The future of equal rights

Sarah Empson looks at the main changes introduced by the new Equality Act and its implications.

Establishing the right relationship

Kat Bingham considers the role and responsibilities of board committees in relation to the overall decision making process of the board.

Top-down tax

Stephen Callahan examines the ins and outs of the new Senior Accounting Officer role, and what company secretaries can do to aid compliance.

Carbon trading

The introduction of the Carbon Reduction Commitment Energy Efficiency Scheme in April sees the beginning of a major plank in the UKs climate change strategy but many firms are still unclear about how to comply. Tony Hoskins clarifies matters.

At arms length

Is there a business case in outsourcing some or all of your secretariat to an external provider? Andrea Thomas investigates.

Support systems

The NHS has experienced a number of high-profile failings in recent years. Professor Malcolm Prowle looks at how striking the right balance between regulation and governance could help prevent future incidents.

Clearing skies

The project to deliver a single IT platform for settling almost all heavily-traded securities in Europe has undergone some significant developments recently. Michael Kempe brings us up-to-date.

Brain drain

With the employment market slowly regaining momentum, Corinne Mills looks at the best way to keep your staff around you, when all else are losing theirs.

Mind games

Everyone knows that personality matters but does measuring it using a formal test help with senior appointments? Dr Rob Yeung examines the facts.

Rescue mission

Debt for equity swaps provide a possible escape route for companies in financial difficulty. Graham Stedman and Nicole Tumiati explain how they work.

Lessons from a crisis

Corporate governance is changing for companies and investors alike. But how does the governance watchdog see best practice progressing? Stephen Haddrill reveals all.