The UK’s move away from paper share certificates is entering the implementation phase, with in-scope companies (UK-incorporated whose shares are admitted to trading on a UK regulated market or a UK SME Growth Market) preparing for the transition to digital share registers. While some of the detailed mechanics are still being developed, dematerialisation is increasingly becoming an issue for issuers to consider now, particularly when it comes to communicating with and supporting shareholders through the change.
In this webinar, we’ll look at dematerialisation through an Investor Relations lens, providing an update on where the programme has reached and exploring what the changes could mean for issuers, IROs and their shareholders. We’ll consider areas such as shareholder communications and engagement, digital adoption, the quality and accessibility of shareholder information, and how companies can begin preparing their shareholder base for a more digital future. We’ll also touch on the longer-term direction of travel and why early awareness across IR and wider issuer teams will be important as the framework continues to develop.
Head of Partnerships and Intermediaries, Corporate Markets EMEA - MUFG Corporate Markets
Josh joined MUFG Corporate Markets in 2024 as Head of Partnerships and Intermediaries. With over a decade of Capital Markets experience, across Share Registration, Investor Relations, and Corporate Governance Josh is responsible for fostering relationships and driving strategic initiatives and partnerships in the Capital Markets ecosystem.
Industry and Strategy Lead - MUFG Corporate Markets, a division of MUFG Pension and Market Services
Lee holds a key position within MUFG Corporate Markets, shaping the strategic direction of digital transformation across the UK’s corporate and shareholder services sector. With over two decades in financial services, Lee is recognised for his expertise in market infrastructure and regulatory change, leading targeted initiatives, and advancing the digitisation of shareholder frameworks.
He has championed industry efforts to modernise the UK’s shareholding landscape, collaborating with HM Treasury’s Dematerialisation Market Action Taskforce (DEMAT), and contributed to consultations on the shift from paper-based to digital share ownership. Lee’s thought leadership includes a series of articles exploring the impact of digitisation on issuers, practitioners, and investors.
Senior Manager, Future Proposition Strategy & Industry - MUFG Corporate Markets, a division of MUFG Pension and Market Services
Laura joined the Industry and Strategy team at MUFG Corporate Markets in 2024. With over a decade of experience in financial services, including previous roles at UK Registrars and Euroclear UK & International, Laura brings expertise in operational strategy and regulatory change.
Her work centres on industry developments and issuer strategy, with a particular emphasis on digitisation and asset reunification. Laura collaborates with industry stakeholders to develop practical solutions that enhance shareholder engagement and support issuers in preparing for the transition to digital share ownership.
