In 2000, the BM&FBOVESPA introduced three special listing segments, known as Level 1 and 2 of Differentiated Corporate Governance Practices and New Market (Novo Mercado), aiming at fostering a secondary market for securities issued by Brazilian companies with securities listed on the BM&FBOVESPA, by prompting such companies to follow good practices of corporate governance. The listing segments were designed for the trading of shares issued by companies voluntarily undertaking to abide by corporate governance practices and disclosure requirements in addition to those already imposed by Brazilian law. These rules generally increase shareholders’ rights and enhance the quality of information provided to shareholders.
To be listed on the Novo Mercado, in addition to the obligations imposed by current Brazilian law, an issuer must meet all of the following requirements:
- Issue only common shares;
- Grant tag-along rights to all shareholders in connection with a transfer of control of the company, the acquirer being required to hold a public offer for acquisition of the shares to the other shareholders, at the same price per share paid for the controlling block;
- Ensure that shares of the issuer representing at least 25% of its total capital are effectively available for trading;
- Adopt offering procedures that favor widespread ownership of shares whenever making a public offering;
- Comply with minimum quarterly disclosure standards;
- Follow stricter disclosure policies with respect to transactions made by controlling shareholders, directors and officers involving securities issued by the issuer;
- Submit any existing shareholders´ agreements and stock option plans to the BM&FBOVESPA;
- Disclose a schedule of corporate events to the shareholders;
- Limiting the mandate of all the members of M. Dias Branco´s Board of Directors to a maximum of 2 years, the Board to consist of at least 5 members, 20% of whom independent;
- Within two years after listing shares on the Novo Mercado, prepare annual financial statements in English, including cash flow statements, in accordance with international accounting standards, such as U.S. GAAP or International Financing Report Accounting Standards (IFRS);
- Adhere exclusively to the arbitration rules of the BM&FBOVESPA, pursuant to which the BM&FBOVESPA, the company, the controlling shareholder, the management and the members of fiscal council, if any, agree to resolve by arbitration any dispute or controversy related to the Novo Mercado listing rules;
- Hold public meetings with financial analysts and any other interested third parties at least once a year to present information regarding its financial and economic position, projects and prospects; and
- If a decision to delist from the Novo Mercado is made, the issuer´s controlling shareholder must launch a tender offer for the acquisition of all outstanding shares at a minimum price to be established based on an independent appraisal.
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