The new Stewardship Code takes effect from 1 January 2026 and has been reworked to reduce the volume and frequency of reporting, cutting costs and time for company reporters, following extensive consultation.

From January, signatories will be able to report their policies less frequently while the new structure enables organisations to focus their annual reporting on demonstrating stewardship activities and outcomes ‘in a clear and engaging way’, the FRC stressed.

‘The 2026 Code is an evolution, not a revolution from the previous version, and our revisions ensure the Code remains relevant and proportionate, while reducing reporting burdens for signatories,’ said Mark Babington, executive director of regulatory standards at the FRC.