Proxy Voting for the Kingdom with Brandon Pizzurro

Many folks with 401ks and IRAs probably don’t think much about proxy voting…but it can be a powerful tool for the Kingdom.

As investors, we have an opportunity to make our Christian values known to the companies in our portfolio. We just need to take advantage of it. Brandon Pizzurro joins us today to tell us how.

What Is Proxy Voting?

When you purchase stock in a company, you become an owner, and as an owner, you have a say in how the company operates. This voice is exercised through shareholder meetings, typically held annually. At these meetings, shareholders can vote on corporate policies and other important matters. However, many shareholders are unable to attend these meetings in person. In such cases, they delegate their voting rights to another person or firm, known as a proxy, who votes on their behalf.

If you invest in a mutual fund, you technically own shares of that mutual fund, not directly in the underlying companies. The mutual fund company, being the legal owner of those corporate shares, holds the right to vote. With hundreds of stocks in some funds, attending every meeting would be impractical. As a result, mutual funds often use proxy firms to cast votes for them.

GuideStone's Faith-Based Approach to Proxy Voting

GuideStone Funds has a unique history with proxy voting, guided by Christian principles. Their investment strategies align with Christian values, even though no corporation is perfect. Recognizing this, GuideStone aims to engage with companies they invest in, encouraging them to adopt more God-honoring business practices. Proxy voting allows them to be a voice for faith in the marketplace, striving to use their influence to advance God’s Kingdom.