General meeting

In Swiss corporations and associations, the general meeting brings together shareholders or members to exercise reserved powers. It commonly approves annual accounts, elects or removes governing and audit bodies, decides on dividends, amendments to articles and major structural changes. Convening, agenda, quorum and voting rules depend on the legal form, statutes and mandatory law. Proper minutes and respect for participation rights are important, because defective resolutions may be challenged. Modern practice may allow written, electronic or multi-location participation where legal requirements are met.