"This guide is designed for reporters and editors who already have some experience covering business and finance. The goal is to help journalists develop stories that examine how a company is governed, and spot events that may have serious consequences for the company’s survival, shareholders and stakeholders. Topics include the media’s role as a watchdog, how the board of directors functions, what constitutes good practice, what financial reports reveal, what role shareholders play and how to track down and use information shedding light on a company’s inner workings. Journalists will learn how to recognize “red flags,” or warning signs, that indicate whether a company may be violating laws and rules. Tips on reporting and writing guide reporters in developing clear, balanced, fair and convincing stories." (Page 5)
1 What’s good governance, and why should journalists care? 9
2 The all-important board of directors, 17
3 All about shareholders, 25
4 Inside family-owned and state-owned enterprises, 33
5 Toeing the line: regulations and disclosure, 41
6 Finding the story behind the numbers, 49
7 Writing and reporting tips, 55