Institute for Corporate Governance & Finance
In any significant corporate governance controversy, the de facto “deciders” are the largest institutional investors. This new balance of power sets the policy and research agenda. The Institute for Corporate Governance & Finance was launched in 2016 to address these issues, taking advantage of the concentration of finance, talent, and activity in New York and at New York University.
Whatever the issue—activist shareholders, short-term versus long-term investment horizons, compensation, control contests, going private, spinoffs, etc.—the central questions should be “what do the big institutions think?” and “what should the big institutions think?” The Institute gathers the key individuals in academia, government, corporations, asset management, and private practice into conversation with the goal of providing the community with practical answers to address real-world issues.
Co-Director Edward Rock Steps Down
The Institute for Corporate Governance & Finance was founded in 2016 by Professor Edward Rock upon his arrival at the Law School, with financial support from Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz. After almost 10 years, Professor Rock is stepping down as a co-director, leaving Professors Robert Jackson and Emiliano Catan at the helm. Professor Rock is expected to remain an “emeritus” co-director and continue to be a resource to the Institute and an active participant in ICGF programs. We are deeply grateful for all he has built and for the leadership, vision, and energy he has brought to the Institute from its inception.
Upcoming Events
Bridge Dinner
September 23, 2026
Invitation Only
Distinguished Jurist Lecture
November 4, 2026
Lipton Hall, D'Agostino Hall
Clerkship Panel
November 11, 2026
Fall Roundtable
December 3, 2026
Invitation Only
Event Spotlight
Life in the Law with H. Rodgin Cohen
On February 3rd, ICGF hosted "Life in the Law" with H. Rodgin Cohen, Senior Chairman of Sullivan & Cromwell. Click here to watch the full event.
Conferences and Panels
Recent conference topics have included "The Implications of Pass-Through Voting for Governance and Shareholder Communications" and "REITs in a Time of Disruption."
Annual Reports
The ICGF compiles a yearly report of all of the events that have taken place at the center.
