Shareholder Value

Lifeway Foods (LWAY) received a boost as ISS recommended shareholders “DO NOT VOTE” on the consent solicitation by dissident shareholders Ludmila and Edward Smolyansky. ISS cited Lifeway’s positive financial performance and share price rally, finding the dissidents’ arguments lacking context and a clear plan. CEO Julie Smolyansky welcomed the recommendation, stating the solicitation is “unwarranted, disruptive and not in the best interest of Lifeway shareholders.” Lifeway urges shareholders to follow ISS’s advice and take no action.

Heineken Holding N.V. provided an update on its share buyback program. Between June 30 and July 4, 2025, the company repurchased 42,006 shares at an average price of €65.07, bringing the total acquired to 1,301,287 shares for €88,261,067. Weekly updates are available on their website. The company continues to focus on its stake in Heineken N.V., emphasizing innovation, brand investment, and sustainability.

Golden Goliath Resources Ltd. announced the immediate resignation of Mr. Daniel Nofrietta Fernandez from its Board of Directors. The company expressed gratitude for his contributions and is actively seeking replacements as part of a strategic review to enhance shareholder value and guide future growth.

Endeavour Mining announced a share buyback on June 27, 2025, purchasing 1,000 shares from Stifel Nicolaus Europe Limited on June 26, 2025, at a price of 2,250.00 GBp per share. This action, part of a previously announced buyback program, reflects the company’s commitment to shareholder value and optimizing its capital structure. Following this, the company will have 241,854,962 ordinary shares in issue.

SINOVAC Biotech is urging shareholders to vote against proposals to replace the board, citing its efforts to restore shareholder value, including dividend payments and a strategic realignment. The company launched www.VoteSinovac.com and filed an investor presentation with the SEC, highlighting the board’s commitment to maximize shareholder investment, defend against litigation from a dissenting investor group, and potentially relist on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.

Abbott announced its 406th consecutive quarterly dividend of $0.59 per share, payable August 15, 2025. This marks 53 consecutive years of dividend increases, highlighting Abbott’s financial strength and its inclusion in the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats Index. The consistent payouts, starting in 1924, underscore the company’s commitment to shareholder value.

Carnival Corporation & plc will release its Q2 2025 earnings on June 24, 2025, with a call at 10 AM EDT. The results, affecting brands like Carnival Cruise Line and Princess Cruises, will be accessible via website. Investors will analyze the performance of the world’s largest cruise company within the leisure travel market.

SWZ (formerly The Swiss Helvetia Fund) underwent a strategic shift in February 2025, embracing a total return objective under Bulldog Investors. The $92.4 million portfolio, as of May 2025, now includes Swiss, U.S., and a significant cash component (50.3%). A $3.00 special dividend was distributed in April. The fund’s performance reflecting its new strategy will be closely watched.