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PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
\"We are also expanding our presence in the United States with significant investments in research, development and manufacturing,\" said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca\u2019s Chief Executive Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
The company re-engages with the trade organization as pharmaceutical firms get ready to tackle possible tariffs and drug import fees during President Donald Trump's administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We are also expanding our presence in the United States with significant investments in research, development and manufacturing,\" said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca\u2019s Chief Executive Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
AstraZeneca has reentered the primary U.S. pharmaceutical lobby group nearly two years after its exit, according to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). This move comes after the British drugmaker declared a $3.5 billion acquisition in the United States last year, intended to enhance its research and development (R&D) and product development abilities by the end of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The company re-engages with the trade organization as pharmaceutical firms get ready to tackle possible tariffs and drug import fees during President Donald Trump's administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We are also expanding our presence in the United States with significant investments in research, development and manufacturing,\" said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca\u2019s Chief Executive Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
The recommendations aim to address a regulatory process at the SEC described in the report as \u201cinconsistent, opaque, and unpredictable.\u201d Additionally, it focuses on unaccountable proxy advisory companies that<\/a> significantly influence vote outcomes and corporate governance. BRT emphasized the need for broader structural reforms to shield investors and to ensure that US capital markets remain a catalyst for economic growth and opportunity.\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"US lobby group calls for reform of outdated proxy voting systems","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-lobby-group-calls-for-reform-of-outdated-proxy-voting-systems","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7623","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7624,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_content":"\n AstraZeneca has reentered the primary U.S. pharmaceutical lobby group nearly two years after its exit, according to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). This move comes after the British drugmaker declared a $3.5 billion acquisition in the United States last year, intended to enhance its research and development (R&D) and product development abilities by the end of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The company re-engages with the trade organization as pharmaceutical firms get ready to tackle possible tariffs and drug import fees during President Donald Trump's administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We are also expanding our presence in the United States with significant investments in research, development and manufacturing,\" said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca\u2019s Chief Executive Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
The recommendations aim to address a regulatory process at the SEC described in the report as \u201cinconsistent, opaque, and unpredictable.\u201d Additionally, it focuses on unaccountable proxy advisory companies that<\/a> significantly influence vote outcomes and corporate governance. BRT emphasized the need for broader structural reforms to shield investors and to ensure that US capital markets remain a catalyst for economic growth and opportunity.\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"US lobby group calls for reform of outdated proxy voting systems","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-lobby-group-calls-for-reform-of-outdated-proxy-voting-systems","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7623","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7624,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_content":"\n AstraZeneca has reentered the primary U.S. pharmaceutical lobby group nearly two years after its exit, according to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). This move comes after the British drugmaker declared a $3.5 billion acquisition in the United States last year, intended to enhance its research and development (R&D) and product development abilities by the end of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The company re-engages with the trade organization as pharmaceutical firms get ready to tackle possible tariffs and drug import fees during President Donald Trump's administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We are also expanding our presence in the United States with significant investments in research, development and manufacturing,\" said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca\u2019s Chief Executive Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
The recommendations aim to address a regulatory process at the SEC described in the report as \u201cinconsistent, opaque, and unpredictable.\u201d Additionally, it focuses on unaccountable proxy advisory companies that<\/a> significantly influence vote outcomes and corporate governance. BRT emphasized the need for broader structural reforms to shield investors and to ensure that US capital markets remain a catalyst for economic growth and opportunity.\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"US lobby group calls for reform of outdated proxy voting systems","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-lobby-group-calls-for-reform-of-outdated-proxy-voting-systems","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7623","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7624,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_content":"\n AstraZeneca has reentered the primary U.S. pharmaceutical lobby group nearly two years after its exit, according to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). This move comes after the British drugmaker declared a $3.5 billion acquisition in the United States last year, intended to enhance its research and development (R&D) and product development abilities by the end of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The company re-engages with the trade organization as pharmaceutical firms get ready to tackle possible tariffs and drug import fees during President Donald Trump's administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We are also expanding our presence in the United States with significant investments in research, development and manufacturing,\" said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca\u2019s Chief Executive Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
The recommendations aim to address a regulatory process at the SEC described in the report as \u201cinconsistent, opaque, and unpredictable.\u201d Additionally, it focuses on unaccountable proxy advisory companies that<\/a> significantly influence vote outcomes and corporate governance. BRT emphasized the need for broader structural reforms to shield investors and to ensure that US capital markets remain a catalyst for economic growth and opportunity.\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"US lobby group calls for reform of outdated proxy voting systems","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-lobby-group-calls-for-reform-of-outdated-proxy-voting-systems","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7623","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7624,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_content":"\n AstraZeneca has reentered the primary U.S. pharmaceutical lobby group nearly two years after its exit, according to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). This move comes after the British drugmaker declared a $3.5 billion acquisition in the United States last year, intended to enhance its research and development (R&D) and product development abilities by the end of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The company re-engages with the trade organization as pharmaceutical firms get ready to tackle possible tariffs and drug import fees during President Donald Trump's administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We are also expanding our presence in the United States with significant investments in research, development and manufacturing,\" said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca\u2019s Chief Executive Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
The recommendations aim to address a regulatory process at the SEC described in the report as \u201cinconsistent, opaque, and unpredictable.\u201d Additionally, it focuses on unaccountable proxy advisory companies that<\/a> significantly influence vote outcomes and corporate governance. BRT emphasized the need for broader structural reforms to shield investors and to ensure that US capital markets remain a catalyst for economic growth and opportunity.\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"US lobby group calls for reform of outdated proxy voting systems","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-lobby-group-calls-for-reform-of-outdated-proxy-voting-systems","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7623","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7624,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_content":"\n AstraZeneca has reentered the primary U.S. pharmaceutical lobby group nearly two years after its exit, according to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). This move comes after the British drugmaker declared a $3.5 billion acquisition in the United States last year, intended to enhance its research and development (R&D) and product development abilities by the end of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The company re-engages with the trade organization as pharmaceutical firms get ready to tackle possible tariffs and drug import fees during President Donald Trump's administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We are also expanding our presence in the United States with significant investments in research, development and manufacturing,\" said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca\u2019s Chief Executive Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
The recommendations aim to address a regulatory process at the SEC described in the report as \u201cinconsistent, opaque, and unpredictable.\u201d Additionally, it focuses on unaccountable proxy advisory companies that<\/a> significantly influence vote outcomes and corporate governance. BRT emphasized the need for broader structural reforms to shield investors and to ensure that US capital markets remain a catalyst for economic growth and opportunity.\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"US lobby group calls for reform of outdated proxy voting systems","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-lobby-group-calls-for-reform-of-outdated-proxy-voting-systems","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7623","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7624,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_content":"\n AstraZeneca has reentered the primary U.S. pharmaceutical lobby group nearly two years after its exit, according to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). This move comes after the British drugmaker declared a $3.5 billion acquisition in the United States last year, intended to enhance its research and development (R&D) and product development abilities by the end of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The company re-engages with the trade organization as pharmaceutical firms get ready to tackle possible tariffs and drug import fees during President Donald Trump's administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We are also expanding our presence in the United States with significant investments in research, development and manufacturing,\" said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca\u2019s Chief Executive Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
The recommendations aim to address a regulatory process at the SEC described in the report as \u201cinconsistent, opaque, and unpredictable.\u201d Additionally, it focuses on unaccountable proxy advisory companies that<\/a> significantly influence vote outcomes and corporate governance. BRT emphasized the need for broader structural reforms to shield investors and to ensure that US capital markets remain a catalyst for economic growth and opportunity.\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"US lobby group calls for reform of outdated proxy voting systems","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-lobby-group-calls-for-reform-of-outdated-proxy-voting-systems","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7623","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7624,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_content":"\n AstraZeneca has reentered the primary U.S. pharmaceutical lobby group nearly two years after its exit, according to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). This move comes after the British drugmaker declared a $3.5 billion acquisition in the United States last year, intended to enhance its research and development (R&D) and product development abilities by the end of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The company re-engages with the trade organization as pharmaceutical firms get ready to tackle possible tariffs and drug import fees during President Donald Trump's administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We are also expanding our presence in the United States with significant investments in research, development and manufacturing,\" said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca\u2019s Chief Executive Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
The BRT's report specifies the following targeted policy recommendations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The recommendations aim to address a regulatory process at the SEC described in the report as \u201cinconsistent, opaque, and unpredictable.\u201d Additionally, it focuses on unaccountable proxy advisory companies that<\/a> significantly influence vote outcomes and corporate governance. BRT emphasized the need for broader structural reforms to shield investors and to ensure that US capital markets remain a catalyst for economic growth and opportunity.\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"US lobby group calls for reform of outdated proxy voting systems","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-lobby-group-calls-for-reform-of-outdated-proxy-voting-systems","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7623","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7624,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_content":"\n AstraZeneca has reentered the primary U.S. pharmaceutical lobby group nearly two years after its exit, according to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). This move comes after the British drugmaker declared a $3.5 billion acquisition in the United States last year, intended to enhance its research and development (R&D) and product development abilities by the end of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The company re-engages with the trade organization as pharmaceutical firms get ready to tackle possible tariffs and drug import fees during President Donald Trump's administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We are also expanding our presence in the United States with significant investments in research, development and manufacturing,\" said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca\u2019s Chief Executive Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
The shift has caused proxy statements to turn into \u201cbattlegrounds for contentious social debates,\u201d detracting from discussions about strategic preferences and the planned purposes of stakeholder arrangement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT's report specifies the following targeted policy recommendations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The recommendations aim to address a regulatory process at the SEC described in the report as \u201cinconsistent, opaque, and unpredictable.\u201d Additionally, it focuses on unaccountable proxy advisory companies that<\/a> significantly influence vote outcomes and corporate governance. BRT emphasized the need for broader structural reforms to shield investors and to ensure that US capital markets remain a catalyst for economic growth and opportunity.\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"US lobby group calls for reform of outdated proxy voting systems","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-lobby-group-calls-for-reform-of-outdated-proxy-voting-systems","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7623","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7624,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_content":"\n AstraZeneca has reentered the primary U.S. pharmaceutical lobby group nearly two years after its exit, according to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). This move comes after the British drugmaker declared a $3.5 billion acquisition in the United States last year, intended to enhance its research and development (R&D) and product development abilities by the end of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The company re-engages with the trade organization as pharmaceutical firms get ready to tackle possible tariffs and drug import fees during President Donald Trump's administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We are also expanding our presence in the United States with significant investments in research, development and manufacturing,\" said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca\u2019s Chief Executive Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
The BRT\u2019s whitepaper, The Need for Bold Proxy Process Reforms, clearly advocates for stronger oversight of proxy advisory companies to curb their power and suggests reforming the proxy process to align with what it identifies as the long-term interests of shareholders. The report highlights recent cases where savvy investors, often with only the tiniest financial investments, have leveraged the proxy process to advance their own public approach goals unrelated to company performance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The shift has caused proxy statements to turn into \u201cbattlegrounds for contentious social debates,\u201d detracting from discussions about strategic preferences and the planned purposes of stakeholder arrangement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT's report specifies the following targeted policy recommendations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The recommendations aim to address a regulatory process at the SEC described in the report as \u201cinconsistent, opaque, and unpredictable.\u201d Additionally, it focuses on unaccountable proxy advisory companies that<\/a> significantly influence vote outcomes and corporate governance. BRT emphasized the need for broader structural reforms to shield investors and to ensure that US capital markets remain a catalyst for economic growth and opportunity.\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"US lobby group calls for reform of outdated proxy voting systems","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-lobby-group-calls-for-reform-of-outdated-proxy-voting-systems","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7623","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7624,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_content":"\n AstraZeneca has reentered the primary U.S. pharmaceutical lobby group nearly two years after its exit, according to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). This move comes after the British drugmaker declared a $3.5 billion acquisition in the United States last year, intended to enhance its research and development (R&D) and product development abilities by the end of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The company re-engages with the trade organization as pharmaceutical firms get ready to tackle possible tariffs and drug import fees during President Donald Trump's administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We are also expanding our presence in the United States with significant investments in research, development and manufacturing,\" said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca\u2019s Chief Executive Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
The non-profit organization is located in Washington<\/a>, DC and consists solely of chief executives from major US companies. BRT has called on the SEC to revamp the shareholder proposal process for public institutions, aiming to make it harder for activist suggestions to appear on business proxy ballots.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT\u2019s whitepaper, The Need for Bold Proxy Process Reforms, clearly advocates for stronger oversight of proxy advisory companies to curb their power and suggests reforming the proxy process to align with what it identifies as the long-term interests of shareholders. The report highlights recent cases where savvy investors, often with only the tiniest financial investments, have leveraged the proxy process to advance their own public approach goals unrelated to company performance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The shift has caused proxy statements to turn into \u201cbattlegrounds for contentious social debates,\u201d detracting from discussions about strategic preferences and the planned purposes of stakeholder arrangement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT's report specifies the following targeted policy recommendations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The recommendations aim to address a regulatory process at the SEC described in the report as \u201cinconsistent, opaque, and unpredictable.\u201d Additionally, it focuses on unaccountable proxy advisory companies that<\/a> significantly influence vote outcomes and corporate governance. BRT emphasized the need for broader structural reforms to shield investors and to ensure that US capital markets remain a catalyst for economic growth and opportunity.\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"US lobby group calls for reform of outdated proxy voting systems","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-lobby-group-calls-for-reform-of-outdated-proxy-voting-systems","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7623","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7624,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_content":"\n AstraZeneca has reentered the primary U.S. pharmaceutical lobby group nearly two years after its exit, according to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). This move comes after the British drugmaker declared a $3.5 billion acquisition in the United States last year, intended to enhance its research and development (R&D) and product development abilities by the end of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The company re-engages with the trade organization as pharmaceutical firms get ready to tackle possible tariffs and drug import fees during President Donald Trump's administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We are also expanding our presence in the United States with significant investments in research, development and manufacturing,\" said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca\u2019s Chief Executive Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
Immediate steps are essential from the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Congress to update obsolete proxy-voting processes, according to a report issued by the lobbyist association Business Roundtable (BRT). <\/p>\n\n\n\n The non-profit organization is located in Washington<\/a>, DC and consists solely of chief executives from major US companies. BRT has called on the SEC to revamp the shareholder proposal process for public institutions, aiming to make it harder for activist suggestions to appear on business proxy ballots.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT\u2019s whitepaper, The Need for Bold Proxy Process Reforms, clearly advocates for stronger oversight of proxy advisory companies to curb their power and suggests reforming the proxy process to align with what it identifies as the long-term interests of shareholders. The report highlights recent cases where savvy investors, often with only the tiniest financial investments, have leveraged the proxy process to advance their own public approach goals unrelated to company performance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The shift has caused proxy statements to turn into \u201cbattlegrounds for contentious social debates,\u201d detracting from discussions about strategic preferences and the planned purposes of stakeholder arrangement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT's report specifies the following targeted policy recommendations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The recommendations aim to address a regulatory process at the SEC described in the report as \u201cinconsistent, opaque, and unpredictable.\u201d Additionally, it focuses on unaccountable proxy advisory companies that<\/a> significantly influence vote outcomes and corporate governance. BRT emphasized the need for broader structural reforms to shield investors and to ensure that US capital markets remain a catalyst for economic growth and opportunity.\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"US lobby group calls for reform of outdated proxy voting systems","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-lobby-group-calls-for-reform-of-outdated-proxy-voting-systems","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7623","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7624,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_content":"\n AstraZeneca has reentered the primary U.S. pharmaceutical lobby group nearly two years after its exit, according to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). This move comes after the British drugmaker declared a $3.5 billion acquisition in the United States last year, intended to enhance its research and development (R&D) and product development abilities by the end of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The company re-engages with the trade organization as pharmaceutical firms get ready to tackle possible tariffs and drug import fees during President Donald Trump's administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We are also expanding our presence in the United States with significant investments in research, development and manufacturing,\" said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca\u2019s Chief Executive Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
With vital minerals at the heart of the intensifying struggle, the company's expanding Washington presence coincides with resurgent U.S.-China trade tensions under President Trump. In Washington's attempts to secure supply lines for these resources, Korea is viewed as a crucial ally. The U.S.-led Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), an effort to challenge China's hegemony in the world's vital minerals market, was chaired for a year by South Korea in July 2024.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Korea Zinc intensifies lobbying in US through firm tied to Trump","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"korea-zinc-intensifies-lobbying-in-us-through-firm-tied-to-trump","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-28 19:23:18","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-28 19:23:18","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7638","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7623,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:58:16","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:16","post_content":"\n Immediate steps are essential from the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Congress to update obsolete proxy-voting processes, according to a report issued by the lobbyist association Business Roundtable (BRT). <\/p>\n\n\n\n The non-profit organization is located in Washington<\/a>, DC and consists solely of chief executives from major US companies. BRT has called on the SEC to revamp the shareholder proposal process for public institutions, aiming to make it harder for activist suggestions to appear on business proxy ballots.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT\u2019s whitepaper, The Need for Bold Proxy Process Reforms, clearly advocates for stronger oversight of proxy advisory companies to curb their power and suggests reforming the proxy process to align with what it identifies as the long-term interests of shareholders. The report highlights recent cases where savvy investors, often with only the tiniest financial investments, have leveraged the proxy process to advance their own public approach goals unrelated to company performance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The shift has caused proxy statements to turn into \u201cbattlegrounds for contentious social debates,\u201d detracting from discussions about strategic preferences and the planned purposes of stakeholder arrangement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT's report specifies the following targeted policy recommendations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The recommendations aim to address a regulatory process at the SEC described in the report as \u201cinconsistent, opaque, and unpredictable.\u201d Additionally, it focuses on unaccountable proxy advisory companies that<\/a> significantly influence vote outcomes and corporate governance. BRT emphasized the need for broader structural reforms to shield investors and to ensure that US capital markets remain a catalyst for economic growth and opportunity.\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"US lobby group calls for reform of outdated proxy voting systems","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-lobby-group-calls-for-reform-of-outdated-proxy-voting-systems","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7623","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7624,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_content":"\n AstraZeneca has reentered the primary U.S. pharmaceutical lobby group nearly two years after its exit, according to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). This move comes after the British drugmaker declared a $3.5 billion acquisition in the United States last year, intended to enhance its research and development (R&D) and product development abilities by the end of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The company re-engages with the trade organization as pharmaceutical firms get ready to tackle possible tariffs and drug import fees during President Donald Trump's administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We are also expanding our presence in the United States with significant investments in research, development and manufacturing,\" said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca\u2019s Chief Executive Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
In March, Impression Strategy, a new lobbying firm, was hired by Korea Zinc's U.S. affiliate, Pedalpoint Holdings, under a $40,000 contract. Brad Stewart, a seasoned Capitol Hill<\/a> assistant who was once Rep. Zach Nunn's chief of staff and is well-known for his connections to Trump's political network, is one of its lobbyists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With vital minerals at the heart of the intensifying struggle, the company's expanding Washington presence coincides with resurgent U.S.-China trade tensions under President Trump. In Washington's attempts to secure supply lines for these resources, Korea is viewed as a crucial ally. The U.S.-led Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), an effort to challenge China's hegemony in the world's vital minerals market, was chaired for a year by South Korea in July 2024.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Korea Zinc intensifies lobbying in US through firm tied to Trump","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"korea-zinc-intensifies-lobbying-in-us-through-firm-tied-to-trump","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-28 19:23:18","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-28 19:23:18","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7638","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7623,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:58:16","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:16","post_content":"\n Immediate steps are essential from the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Congress to update obsolete proxy-voting processes, according to a report issued by the lobbyist association Business Roundtable (BRT). <\/p>\n\n\n\n The non-profit organization is located in Washington<\/a>, DC and consists solely of chief executives from major US companies. BRT has called on the SEC to revamp the shareholder proposal process for public institutions, aiming to make it harder for activist suggestions to appear on business proxy ballots.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT\u2019s whitepaper, The Need for Bold Proxy Process Reforms, clearly advocates for stronger oversight of proxy advisory companies to curb their power and suggests reforming the proxy process to align with what it identifies as the long-term interests of shareholders. The report highlights recent cases where savvy investors, often with only the tiniest financial investments, have leveraged the proxy process to advance their own public approach goals unrelated to company performance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The shift has caused proxy statements to turn into \u201cbattlegrounds for contentious social debates,\u201d detracting from discussions about strategic preferences and the planned purposes of stakeholder arrangement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT's report specifies the following targeted policy recommendations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The recommendations aim to address a regulatory process at the SEC described in the report as \u201cinconsistent, opaque, and unpredictable.\u201d Additionally, it focuses on unaccountable proxy advisory companies that<\/a> significantly influence vote outcomes and corporate governance. BRT emphasized the need for broader structural reforms to shield investors and to ensure that US capital markets remain a catalyst for economic growth and opportunity.\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"US lobby group calls for reform of outdated proxy voting systems","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-lobby-group-calls-for-reform-of-outdated-proxy-voting-systems","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7623","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7624,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_content":"\n AstraZeneca has reentered the primary U.S. pharmaceutical lobby group nearly two years after its exit, according to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). This move comes after the British drugmaker declared a $3.5 billion acquisition in the United States last year, intended to enhance its research and development (R&D) and product development abilities by the end of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The company re-engages with the trade organization as pharmaceutical firms get ready to tackle possible tariffs and drug import fees during President Donald Trump's administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We are also expanding our presence in the United States with significant investments in research, development and manufacturing,\" said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca\u2019s Chief Executive Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
According to congressional records, just eight<\/a> other corporations inked larger lobbying deals during the quarter, including chipmaker Qualcomm ($680,000) and Nippon Steel, which is attempting to purchase U.S. Steel ($1.7 million).<\/p>\n\n\n\n In March, Impression Strategy, a new lobbying firm, was hired by Korea Zinc's U.S. affiliate, Pedalpoint Holdings, under a $40,000 contract. Brad Stewart, a seasoned Capitol Hill<\/a> assistant who was once Rep. Zach Nunn's chief of staff and is well-known for his connections to Trump's political network, is one of its lobbyists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With vital minerals at the heart of the intensifying struggle, the company's expanding Washington presence coincides with resurgent U.S.-China trade tensions under President Trump. In Washington's attempts to secure supply lines for these resources, Korea is viewed as a crucial ally. The U.S.-led Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), an effort to challenge China's hegemony in the world's vital minerals market, was chaired for a year by South Korea in July 2024.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Korea Zinc intensifies lobbying in US through firm tied to Trump","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"korea-zinc-intensifies-lobbying-in-us-through-firm-tied-to-trump","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-28 19:23:18","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-28 19:23:18","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7638","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7623,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:58:16","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:16","post_content":"\n Immediate steps are essential from the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Congress to update obsolete proxy-voting processes, according to a report issued by the lobbyist association Business Roundtable (BRT). <\/p>\n\n\n\n The non-profit organization is located in Washington<\/a>, DC and consists solely of chief executives from major US companies. BRT has called on the SEC to revamp the shareholder proposal process for public institutions, aiming to make it harder for activist suggestions to appear on business proxy ballots.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT\u2019s whitepaper, The Need for Bold Proxy Process Reforms, clearly advocates for stronger oversight of proxy advisory companies to curb their power and suggests reforming the proxy process to align with what it identifies as the long-term interests of shareholders. The report highlights recent cases where savvy investors, often with only the tiniest financial investments, have leveraged the proxy process to advance their own public approach goals unrelated to company performance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The shift has caused proxy statements to turn into \u201cbattlegrounds for contentious social debates,\u201d detracting from discussions about strategic preferences and the planned purposes of stakeholder arrangement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT's report specifies the following targeted policy recommendations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The recommendations aim to address a regulatory process at the SEC described in the report as \u201cinconsistent, opaque, and unpredictable.\u201d Additionally, it focuses on unaccountable proxy advisory companies that<\/a> significantly influence vote outcomes and corporate governance. BRT emphasized the need for broader structural reforms to shield investors and to ensure that US capital markets remain a catalyst for economic growth and opportunity.\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"US lobby group calls for reform of outdated proxy voting systems","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-lobby-group-calls-for-reform-of-outdated-proxy-voting-systems","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7623","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7624,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_content":"\n AstraZeneca has reentered the primary U.S. pharmaceutical lobby group nearly two years after its exit, according to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). This move comes after the British drugmaker declared a $3.5 billion acquisition in the United States last year, intended to enhance its research and development (R&D) and product development abilities by the end of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The company re-engages with the trade organization as pharmaceutical firms get ready to tackle possible tariffs and drug import fees during President Donald Trump's administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We are also expanding our presence in the United States with significant investments in research, development and manufacturing,\" said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca\u2019s Chief Executive Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
After first retaining MPA in February 2024, Korea Zinc has extended the contract five times, most recently tripling the $250,000 quarterly payment. According to MPA's papers, Korea Zinc is receiving advice from the company on matters pertaining to \"critical minerals, recycling, and clean energy subsidies.\" David Vitter, a former Republican senator and congressman, and Cheri Bustos, a former Democratic congresswoman, are important lobbyists on the account.<\/p>\n\n\n\n According to congressional records, just eight<\/a> other corporations inked larger lobbying deals during the quarter, including chipmaker Qualcomm ($680,000) and Nippon Steel, which is attempting to purchase U.S. Steel ($1.7 million).<\/p>\n\n\n\n In March, Impression Strategy, a new lobbying firm, was hired by Korea Zinc's U.S. affiliate, Pedalpoint Holdings, under a $40,000 contract. Brad Stewart, a seasoned Capitol Hill<\/a> assistant who was once Rep. Zach Nunn's chief of staff and is well-known for his connections to Trump's political network, is one of its lobbyists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With vital minerals at the heart of the intensifying struggle, the company's expanding Washington presence coincides with resurgent U.S.-China trade tensions under President Trump. In Washington's attempts to secure supply lines for these resources, Korea is viewed as a crucial ally. The U.S.-led Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), an effort to challenge China's hegemony in the world's vital minerals market, was chaired for a year by South Korea in July 2024.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Korea Zinc intensifies lobbying in US through firm tied to Trump","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"korea-zinc-intensifies-lobbying-in-us-through-firm-tied-to-trump","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-28 19:23:18","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-28 19:23:18","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7638","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7623,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:58:16","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:16","post_content":"\n Immediate steps are essential from the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Congress to update obsolete proxy-voting processes, according to a report issued by the lobbyist association Business Roundtable (BRT). <\/p>\n\n\n\n The non-profit organization is located in Washington<\/a>, DC and consists solely of chief executives from major US companies. BRT has called on the SEC to revamp the shareholder proposal process for public institutions, aiming to make it harder for activist suggestions to appear on business proxy ballots.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT\u2019s whitepaper, The Need for Bold Proxy Process Reforms, clearly advocates for stronger oversight of proxy advisory companies to curb their power and suggests reforming the proxy process to align with what it identifies as the long-term interests of shareholders. The report highlights recent cases where savvy investors, often with only the tiniest financial investments, have leveraged the proxy process to advance their own public approach goals unrelated to company performance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The shift has caused proxy statements to turn into \u201cbattlegrounds for contentious social debates,\u201d detracting from discussions about strategic preferences and the planned purposes of stakeholder arrangement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT's report specifies the following targeted policy recommendations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The recommendations aim to address a regulatory process at the SEC described in the report as \u201cinconsistent, opaque, and unpredictable.\u201d Additionally, it focuses on unaccountable proxy advisory companies that<\/a> significantly influence vote outcomes and corporate governance. BRT emphasized the need for broader structural reforms to shield investors and to ensure that US capital markets remain a catalyst for economic growth and opportunity.\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"US lobby group calls for reform of outdated proxy voting systems","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-lobby-group-calls-for-reform-of-outdated-proxy-voting-systems","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7623","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7624,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_content":"\n AstraZeneca has reentered the primary U.S. pharmaceutical lobby group nearly two years after its exit, according to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). This move comes after the British drugmaker declared a $3.5 billion acquisition in the United States last year, intended to enhance its research and development (R&D) and product development abilities by the end of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The company re-engages with the trade organization as pharmaceutical firms get ready to tackle possible tariffs and drug import fees during President Donald Trump's administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We are also expanding our presence in the United States with significant investments in research, development and manufacturing,\" said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca\u2019s Chief Executive Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
Since Trump's return to power, MPA, a politically connected business with connections to important Trump administration personnel, including White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, has rapidly expanded. In only the first quarter, the company signed contracts for $5.2 million.<\/p>\n\n\n\n After first retaining MPA in February 2024, Korea Zinc has extended the contract five times, most recently tripling the $250,000 quarterly payment. According to MPA's papers, Korea Zinc is receiving advice from the company on matters pertaining to \"critical minerals, recycling, and clean energy subsidies.\" David Vitter, a former Republican senator and congressman, and Cheri Bustos, a former Democratic congresswoman, are important lobbyists on the account.<\/p>\n\n\n\n According to congressional records, just eight<\/a> other corporations inked larger lobbying deals during the quarter, including chipmaker Qualcomm ($680,000) and Nippon Steel, which is attempting to purchase U.S. Steel ($1.7 million).<\/p>\n\n\n\n In March, Impression Strategy, a new lobbying firm, was hired by Korea Zinc's U.S. affiliate, Pedalpoint Holdings, under a $40,000 contract. Brad Stewart, a seasoned Capitol Hill<\/a> assistant who was once Rep. Zach Nunn's chief of staff and is well-known for his connections to Trump's political network, is one of its lobbyists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With vital minerals at the heart of the intensifying struggle, the company's expanding Washington presence coincides with resurgent U.S.-China trade tensions under President Trump. In Washington's attempts to secure supply lines for these resources, Korea is viewed as a crucial ally. The U.S.-led Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), an effort to challenge China's hegemony in the world's vital minerals market, was chaired for a year by South Korea in July 2024.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Korea Zinc intensifies lobbying in US through firm tied to Trump","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"korea-zinc-intensifies-lobbying-in-us-through-firm-tied-to-trump","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-28 19:23:18","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-28 19:23:18","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7638","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7623,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:58:16","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:16","post_content":"\n Immediate steps are essential from the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Congress to update obsolete proxy-voting processes, according to a report issued by the lobbyist association Business Roundtable (BRT). <\/p>\n\n\n\n The non-profit organization is located in Washington<\/a>, DC and consists solely of chief executives from major US companies. BRT has called on the SEC to revamp the shareholder proposal process for public institutions, aiming to make it harder for activist suggestions to appear on business proxy ballots.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT\u2019s whitepaper, The Need for Bold Proxy Process Reforms, clearly advocates for stronger oversight of proxy advisory companies to curb their power and suggests reforming the proxy process to align with what it identifies as the long-term interests of shareholders. The report highlights recent cases where savvy investors, often with only the tiniest financial investments, have leveraged the proxy process to advance their own public approach goals unrelated to company performance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The shift has caused proxy statements to turn into \u201cbattlegrounds for contentious social debates,\u201d detracting from discussions about strategic preferences and the planned purposes of stakeholder arrangement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT's report specifies the following targeted policy recommendations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The recommendations aim to address a regulatory process at the SEC described in the report as \u201cinconsistent, opaque, and unpredictable.\u201d Additionally, it focuses on unaccountable proxy advisory companies that<\/a> significantly influence vote outcomes and corporate governance. BRT emphasized the need for broader structural reforms to shield investors and to ensure that US capital markets remain a catalyst for economic growth and opportunity.\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"US lobby group calls for reform of outdated proxy voting systems","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-lobby-group-calls-for-reform-of-outdated-proxy-voting-systems","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7623","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7624,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_content":"\n AstraZeneca has reentered the primary U.S. pharmaceutical lobby group nearly two years after its exit, according to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). This move comes after the British drugmaker declared a $3.5 billion acquisition in the United States last year, intended to enhance its research and development (R&D) and product development abilities by the end of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The company re-engages with the trade organization as pharmaceutical firms get ready to tackle possible tariffs and drug import fees during President Donald Trump's administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We are also expanding our presence in the United States with significant investments in research, development and manufacturing,\" said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca\u2019s Chief Executive Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
According to the U.S. Lobbying Disclosure Act, the company's $500,000 contract with Mercury Public Affairs (MPA) in the first quarter of 2025 was the ninth-largest single lobbying agreement during that time frame.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Since Trump's return to power, MPA, a politically connected business with connections to important Trump administration personnel, including White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, has rapidly expanded. In only the first quarter, the company signed contracts for $5.2 million.<\/p>\n\n\n\n After first retaining MPA in February 2024, Korea Zinc has extended the contract five times, most recently tripling the $250,000 quarterly payment. According to MPA's papers, Korea Zinc is receiving advice from the company on matters pertaining to \"critical minerals, recycling, and clean energy subsidies.\" David Vitter, a former Republican senator and congressman, and Cheri Bustos, a former Democratic congresswoman, are important lobbyists on the account.<\/p>\n\n\n\n According to congressional records, just eight<\/a> other corporations inked larger lobbying deals during the quarter, including chipmaker Qualcomm ($680,000) and Nippon Steel, which is attempting to purchase U.S. Steel ($1.7 million).<\/p>\n\n\n\n In March, Impression Strategy, a new lobbying firm, was hired by Korea Zinc's U.S. affiliate, Pedalpoint Holdings, under a $40,000 contract. Brad Stewart, a seasoned Capitol Hill<\/a> assistant who was once Rep. Zach Nunn's chief of staff and is well-known for his connections to Trump's political network, is one of its lobbyists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With vital minerals at the heart of the intensifying struggle, the company's expanding Washington presence coincides with resurgent U.S.-China trade tensions under President Trump. In Washington's attempts to secure supply lines for these resources, Korea is viewed as a crucial ally. The U.S.-led Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), an effort to challenge China's hegemony in the world's vital minerals market, was chaired for a year by South Korea in July 2024.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Korea Zinc intensifies lobbying in US through firm tied to Trump","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"korea-zinc-intensifies-lobbying-in-us-through-firm-tied-to-trump","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-28 19:23:18","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-28 19:23:18","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7638","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7623,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:58:16","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:16","post_content":"\n Immediate steps are essential from the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Congress to update obsolete proxy-voting processes, according to a report issued by the lobbyist association Business Roundtable (BRT). <\/p>\n\n\n\n The non-profit organization is located in Washington<\/a>, DC and consists solely of chief executives from major US companies. BRT has called on the SEC to revamp the shareholder proposal process for public institutions, aiming to make it harder for activist suggestions to appear on business proxy ballots.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT\u2019s whitepaper, The Need for Bold Proxy Process Reforms, clearly advocates for stronger oversight of proxy advisory companies to curb their power and suggests reforming the proxy process to align with what it identifies as the long-term interests of shareholders. The report highlights recent cases where savvy investors, often with only the tiniest financial investments, have leveraged the proxy process to advance their own public approach goals unrelated to company performance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The shift has caused proxy statements to turn into \u201cbattlegrounds for contentious social debates,\u201d detracting from discussions about strategic preferences and the planned purposes of stakeholder arrangement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT's report specifies the following targeted policy recommendations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The recommendations aim to address a regulatory process at the SEC described in the report as \u201cinconsistent, opaque, and unpredictable.\u201d Additionally, it focuses on unaccountable proxy advisory companies that<\/a> significantly influence vote outcomes and corporate governance. BRT emphasized the need for broader structural reforms to shield investors and to ensure that US capital markets remain a catalyst for economic growth and opportunity.\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"US lobby group calls for reform of outdated proxy voting systems","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-lobby-group-calls-for-reform-of-outdated-proxy-voting-systems","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7623","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7624,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_content":"\n AstraZeneca has reentered the primary U.S. pharmaceutical lobby group nearly two years after its exit, according to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). This move comes after the British drugmaker declared a $3.5 billion acquisition in the United States last year, intended to enhance its research and development (R&D) and product development abilities by the end of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The company re-engages with the trade organization as pharmaceutical firms get ready to tackle possible tariffs and drug import fees during President Donald Trump's administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We are also expanding our presence in the United States with significant investments in research, development and manufacturing,\" said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca\u2019s Chief Executive Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
South Korean firms have notably intensified their lobbying activities in the United States against the backdrop of changing U.S. trade policies, threats of tariffs, and changing regulatory environments under both the Trump and Biden administrations. This increased lobbying is necessitated by the imperative of defending their investments, obtaining preferential terms for further expansion, and managing uncertainty related to tariffs, export controls, and industrial policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n According to the U.S. Lobbying Disclosure Act, the company's $500,000 contract with Mercury Public Affairs (MPA) in the first quarter of 2025 was the ninth-largest single lobbying agreement during that time frame.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Since Trump's return to power, MPA, a politically connected business with connections to important Trump administration personnel, including White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, has rapidly expanded. In only the first quarter, the company signed contracts for $5.2 million.<\/p>\n\n\n\n After first retaining MPA in February 2024, Korea Zinc has extended the contract five times, most recently tripling the $250,000 quarterly payment. According to MPA's papers, Korea Zinc is receiving advice from the company on matters pertaining to \"critical minerals, recycling, and clean energy subsidies.\" David Vitter, a former Republican senator and congressman, and Cheri Bustos, a former Democratic congresswoman, are important lobbyists on the account.<\/p>\n\n\n\n According to congressional records, just eight<\/a> other corporations inked larger lobbying deals during the quarter, including chipmaker Qualcomm ($680,000) and Nippon Steel, which is attempting to purchase U.S. Steel ($1.7 million).<\/p>\n\n\n\n In March, Impression Strategy, a new lobbying firm, was hired by Korea Zinc's U.S. affiliate, Pedalpoint Holdings, under a $40,000 contract. Brad Stewart, a seasoned Capitol Hill<\/a> assistant who was once Rep. Zach Nunn's chief of staff and is well-known for his connections to Trump's political network, is one of its lobbyists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With vital minerals at the heart of the intensifying struggle, the company's expanding Washington presence coincides with resurgent U.S.-China trade tensions under President Trump. In Washington's attempts to secure supply lines for these resources, Korea is viewed as a crucial ally. The U.S.-led Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), an effort to challenge China's hegemony in the world's vital minerals market, was chaired for a year by South Korea in July 2024.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Korea Zinc intensifies lobbying in US through firm tied to Trump","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"korea-zinc-intensifies-lobbying-in-us-through-firm-tied-to-trump","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-28 19:23:18","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-28 19:23:18","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7638","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7623,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:58:16","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:16","post_content":"\n Immediate steps are essential from the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Congress to update obsolete proxy-voting processes, according to a report issued by the lobbyist association Business Roundtable (BRT). <\/p>\n\n\n\n The non-profit organization is located in Washington<\/a>, DC and consists solely of chief executives from major US companies. BRT has called on the SEC to revamp the shareholder proposal process for public institutions, aiming to make it harder for activist suggestions to appear on business proxy ballots.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT\u2019s whitepaper, The Need for Bold Proxy Process Reforms, clearly advocates for stronger oversight of proxy advisory companies to curb their power and suggests reforming the proxy process to align with what it identifies as the long-term interests of shareholders. The report highlights recent cases where savvy investors, often with only the tiniest financial investments, have leveraged the proxy process to advance their own public approach goals unrelated to company performance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The shift has caused proxy statements to turn into \u201cbattlegrounds for contentious social debates,\u201d detracting from discussions about strategic preferences and the planned purposes of stakeholder arrangement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT's report specifies the following targeted policy recommendations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The recommendations aim to address a regulatory process at the SEC described in the report as \u201cinconsistent, opaque, and unpredictable.\u201d Additionally, it focuses on unaccountable proxy advisory companies that<\/a> significantly influence vote outcomes and corporate governance. BRT emphasized the need for broader structural reforms to shield investors and to ensure that US capital markets remain a catalyst for economic growth and opportunity.\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"US lobby group calls for reform of outdated proxy voting systems","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-lobby-group-calls-for-reform-of-outdated-proxy-voting-systems","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7623","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7624,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_content":"\n AstraZeneca has reentered the primary U.S. pharmaceutical lobby group nearly two years after its exit, according to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). This move comes after the British drugmaker declared a $3.5 billion acquisition in the United States last year, intended to enhance its research and development (R&D) and product development abilities by the end of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The company re-engages with the trade organization as pharmaceutical firms get ready to tackle possible tariffs and drug import fees during President Donald Trump's administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We are also expanding our presence in the United States with significant investments in research, development and manufacturing,\" said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca\u2019s Chief Executive Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
As Korea Zinc deepens its efforts to address a management dispute with MBK Partners and rising geopolitical risks, the South Korean mining company has emerged as a prominent player in Washington's lobbying arena.<\/p>\n\n\n\n South Korean firms have notably intensified their lobbying activities in the United States against the backdrop of changing U.S. trade policies, threats of tariffs, and changing regulatory environments under both the Trump and Biden administrations. This increased lobbying is necessitated by the imperative of defending their investments, obtaining preferential terms for further expansion, and managing uncertainty related to tariffs, export controls, and industrial policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n According to the U.S. Lobbying Disclosure Act, the company's $500,000 contract with Mercury Public Affairs (MPA) in the first quarter of 2025 was the ninth-largest single lobbying agreement during that time frame.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Since Trump's return to power, MPA, a politically connected business with connections to important Trump administration personnel, including White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, has rapidly expanded. In only the first quarter, the company signed contracts for $5.2 million.<\/p>\n\n\n\n After first retaining MPA in February 2024, Korea Zinc has extended the contract five times, most recently tripling the $250,000 quarterly payment. According to MPA's papers, Korea Zinc is receiving advice from the company on matters pertaining to \"critical minerals, recycling, and clean energy subsidies.\" David Vitter, a former Republican senator and congressman, and Cheri Bustos, a former Democratic congresswoman, are important lobbyists on the account.<\/p>\n\n\n\n According to congressional records, just eight<\/a> other corporations inked larger lobbying deals during the quarter, including chipmaker Qualcomm ($680,000) and Nippon Steel, which is attempting to purchase U.S. Steel ($1.7 million).<\/p>\n\n\n\n In March, Impression Strategy, a new lobbying firm, was hired by Korea Zinc's U.S. affiliate, Pedalpoint Holdings, under a $40,000 contract. Brad Stewart, a seasoned Capitol Hill<\/a> assistant who was once Rep. Zach Nunn's chief of staff and is well-known for his connections to Trump's political network, is one of its lobbyists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With vital minerals at the heart of the intensifying struggle, the company's expanding Washington presence coincides with resurgent U.S.-China trade tensions under President Trump. In Washington's attempts to secure supply lines for these resources, Korea is viewed as a crucial ally. The U.S.-led Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), an effort to challenge China's hegemony in the world's vital minerals market, was chaired for a year by South Korea in July 2024.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Korea Zinc intensifies lobbying in US through firm tied to Trump","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"korea-zinc-intensifies-lobbying-in-us-through-firm-tied-to-trump","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-28 19:23:18","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-28 19:23:18","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7638","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7623,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:58:16","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:16","post_content":"\n Immediate steps are essential from the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Congress to update obsolete proxy-voting processes, according to a report issued by the lobbyist association Business Roundtable (BRT). <\/p>\n\n\n\n The non-profit organization is located in Washington<\/a>, DC and consists solely of chief executives from major US companies. BRT has called on the SEC to revamp the shareholder proposal process for public institutions, aiming to make it harder for activist suggestions to appear on business proxy ballots.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT\u2019s whitepaper, The Need for Bold Proxy Process Reforms, clearly advocates for stronger oversight of proxy advisory companies to curb their power and suggests reforming the proxy process to align with what it identifies as the long-term interests of shareholders. The report highlights recent cases where savvy investors, often with only the tiniest financial investments, have leveraged the proxy process to advance their own public approach goals unrelated to company performance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The shift has caused proxy statements to turn into \u201cbattlegrounds for contentious social debates,\u201d detracting from discussions about strategic preferences and the planned purposes of stakeholder arrangement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT's report specifies the following targeted policy recommendations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The recommendations aim to address a regulatory process at the SEC described in the report as \u201cinconsistent, opaque, and unpredictable.\u201d Additionally, it focuses on unaccountable proxy advisory companies that<\/a> significantly influence vote outcomes and corporate governance. BRT emphasized the need for broader structural reforms to shield investors and to ensure that US capital markets remain a catalyst for economic growth and opportunity.\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"US lobby group calls for reform of outdated proxy voting systems","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-lobby-group-calls-for-reform-of-outdated-proxy-voting-systems","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7623","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7624,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_content":"\n AstraZeneca has reentered the primary U.S. pharmaceutical lobby group nearly two years after its exit, according to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). This move comes after the British drugmaker declared a $3.5 billion acquisition in the United States last year, intended to enhance its research and development (R&D) and product development abilities by the end of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The company re-engages with the trade organization as pharmaceutical firms get ready to tackle possible tariffs and drug import fees during President Donald Trump's administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We are also expanding our presence in the United States with significant investments in research, development and manufacturing,\" said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca\u2019s Chief Executive Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
The reforms created an independent institutional framework for the investigation, prosecution, and judicial treatment of organized crime and corruption cases. SPAK is formed by a Special Prosecution Office (separate from other prosecution offices) and a subordinated National Bureau of Investigation. SPAK Courts, which began activities on December 19, 2019, are replacing the previous Serious Crime Courts and exercise nationwide jurisdiction in related cases.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Albania\u2019s Democratic party under investigation over $6 million US lobbying deal","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"albanias-democratic-party-under-investigation-over-6-million-us-lobbying-deal","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-28 19:22:46","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-28 19:22:46","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7639","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7638,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-27 19:13:05","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-27 19:13:05","post_content":"\n As Korea Zinc deepens its efforts to address a management dispute with MBK Partners and rising geopolitical risks, the South Korean mining company has emerged as a prominent player in Washington's lobbying arena.<\/p>\n\n\n\n South Korean firms have notably intensified their lobbying activities in the United States against the backdrop of changing U.S. trade policies, threats of tariffs, and changing regulatory environments under both the Trump and Biden administrations. This increased lobbying is necessitated by the imperative of defending their investments, obtaining preferential terms for further expansion, and managing uncertainty related to tariffs, export controls, and industrial policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n According to the U.S. Lobbying Disclosure Act, the company's $500,000 contract with Mercury Public Affairs (MPA) in the first quarter of 2025 was the ninth-largest single lobbying agreement during that time frame.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Since Trump's return to power, MPA, a politically connected business with connections to important Trump administration personnel, including White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, has rapidly expanded. In only the first quarter, the company signed contracts for $5.2 million.<\/p>\n\n\n\n After first retaining MPA in February 2024, Korea Zinc has extended the contract five times, most recently tripling the $250,000 quarterly payment. According to MPA's papers, Korea Zinc is receiving advice from the company on matters pertaining to \"critical minerals, recycling, and clean energy subsidies.\" David Vitter, a former Republican senator and congressman, and Cheri Bustos, a former Democratic congresswoman, are important lobbyists on the account.<\/p>\n\n\n\n According to congressional records, just eight<\/a> other corporations inked larger lobbying deals during the quarter, including chipmaker Qualcomm ($680,000) and Nippon Steel, which is attempting to purchase U.S. Steel ($1.7 million).<\/p>\n\n\n\n In March, Impression Strategy, a new lobbying firm, was hired by Korea Zinc's U.S. affiliate, Pedalpoint Holdings, under a $40,000 contract. Brad Stewart, a seasoned Capitol Hill<\/a> assistant who was once Rep. Zach Nunn's chief of staff and is well-known for his connections to Trump's political network, is one of its lobbyists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With vital minerals at the heart of the intensifying struggle, the company's expanding Washington presence coincides with resurgent U.S.-China trade tensions under President Trump. In Washington's attempts to secure supply lines for these resources, Korea is viewed as a crucial ally. The U.S.-led Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), an effort to challenge China's hegemony in the world's vital minerals market, was chaired for a year by South Korea in July 2024.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Korea Zinc intensifies lobbying in US through firm tied to Trump","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"korea-zinc-intensifies-lobbying-in-us-through-firm-tied-to-trump","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-28 19:23:18","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-28 19:23:18","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7638","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7623,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:58:16","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:16","post_content":"\n Immediate steps are essential from the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Congress to update obsolete proxy-voting processes, according to a report issued by the lobbyist association Business Roundtable (BRT). <\/p>\n\n\n\n The non-profit organization is located in Washington<\/a>, DC and consists solely of chief executives from major US companies. BRT has called on the SEC to revamp the shareholder proposal process for public institutions, aiming to make it harder for activist suggestions to appear on business proxy ballots.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT\u2019s whitepaper, The Need for Bold Proxy Process Reforms, clearly advocates for stronger oversight of proxy advisory companies to curb their power and suggests reforming the proxy process to align with what it identifies as the long-term interests of shareholders. The report highlights recent cases where savvy investors, often with only the tiniest financial investments, have leveraged the proxy process to advance their own public approach goals unrelated to company performance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The shift has caused proxy statements to turn into \u201cbattlegrounds for contentious social debates,\u201d detracting from discussions about strategic preferences and the planned purposes of stakeholder arrangement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT's report specifies the following targeted policy recommendations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The recommendations aim to address a regulatory process at the SEC described in the report as \u201cinconsistent, opaque, and unpredictable.\u201d Additionally, it focuses on unaccountable proxy advisory companies that<\/a> significantly influence vote outcomes and corporate governance. BRT emphasized the need for broader structural reforms to shield investors and to ensure that US capital markets remain a catalyst for economic growth and opportunity.\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"US lobby group calls for reform of outdated proxy voting systems","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-lobby-group-calls-for-reform-of-outdated-proxy-voting-systems","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7623","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7624,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_content":"\n AstraZeneca has reentered the primary U.S. pharmaceutical lobby group nearly two years after its exit, according to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). This move comes after the British drugmaker declared a $3.5 billion acquisition in the United States last year, intended to enhance its research and development (R&D) and product development abilities by the end of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The company re-engages with the trade organization as pharmaceutical firms get ready to tackle possible tariffs and drug import fees during President Donald Trump's administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We are also expanding our presence in the United States with significant investments in research, development and manufacturing,\" said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca\u2019s Chief Executive Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
SPAK is the Special Anti-Corruption and Organised Crime Structure in Albania, set up as part of a comprehensive system of judicial reform aimed at the fight against high-level corruption and organized crime and bringing the country up to the standards of the European Union. SPAK was set up after Albania's 2013 constitutional reform, which was meant to deal with entrenched corruption in the judiciary and the public sector. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The reforms created an independent institutional framework for the investigation, prosecution, and judicial treatment of organized crime and corruption cases. SPAK is formed by a Special Prosecution Office (separate from other prosecution offices) and a subordinated National Bureau of Investigation. SPAK Courts, which began activities on December 19, 2019, are replacing the previous Serious Crime Courts and exercise nationwide jurisdiction in related cases.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Albania\u2019s Democratic party under investigation over $6 million US lobbying deal","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"albanias-democratic-party-under-investigation-over-6-million-us-lobbying-deal","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-28 19:22:46","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-28 19:22:46","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7639","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7638,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-27 19:13:05","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-27 19:13:05","post_content":"\n As Korea Zinc deepens its efforts to address a management dispute with MBK Partners and rising geopolitical risks, the South Korean mining company has emerged as a prominent player in Washington's lobbying arena.<\/p>\n\n\n\n South Korean firms have notably intensified their lobbying activities in the United States against the backdrop of changing U.S. trade policies, threats of tariffs, and changing regulatory environments under both the Trump and Biden administrations. This increased lobbying is necessitated by the imperative of defending their investments, obtaining preferential terms for further expansion, and managing uncertainty related to tariffs, export controls, and industrial policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n According to the U.S. Lobbying Disclosure Act, the company's $500,000 contract with Mercury Public Affairs (MPA) in the first quarter of 2025 was the ninth-largest single lobbying agreement during that time frame.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Since Trump's return to power, MPA, a politically connected business with connections to important Trump administration personnel, including White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, has rapidly expanded. In only the first quarter, the company signed contracts for $5.2 million.<\/p>\n\n\n\n After first retaining MPA in February 2024, Korea Zinc has extended the contract five times, most recently tripling the $250,000 quarterly payment. According to MPA's papers, Korea Zinc is receiving advice from the company on matters pertaining to \"critical minerals, recycling, and clean energy subsidies.\" David Vitter, a former Republican senator and congressman, and Cheri Bustos, a former Democratic congresswoman, are important lobbyists on the account.<\/p>\n\n\n\n According to congressional records, just eight<\/a> other corporations inked larger lobbying deals during the quarter, including chipmaker Qualcomm ($680,000) and Nippon Steel, which is attempting to purchase U.S. Steel ($1.7 million).<\/p>\n\n\n\n In March, Impression Strategy, a new lobbying firm, was hired by Korea Zinc's U.S. affiliate, Pedalpoint Holdings, under a $40,000 contract. Brad Stewart, a seasoned Capitol Hill<\/a> assistant who was once Rep. Zach Nunn's chief of staff and is well-known for his connections to Trump's political network, is one of its lobbyists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With vital minerals at the heart of the intensifying struggle, the company's expanding Washington presence coincides with resurgent U.S.-China trade tensions under President Trump. In Washington's attempts to secure supply lines for these resources, Korea is viewed as a crucial ally. The U.S.-led Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), an effort to challenge China's hegemony in the world's vital minerals market, was chaired for a year by South Korea in July 2024.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Korea Zinc intensifies lobbying in US through firm tied to Trump","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"korea-zinc-intensifies-lobbying-in-us-through-firm-tied-to-trump","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-28 19:23:18","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-28 19:23:18","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7638","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7623,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:58:16","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:16","post_content":"\n Immediate steps are essential from the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Congress to update obsolete proxy-voting processes, according to a report issued by the lobbyist association Business Roundtable (BRT). <\/p>\n\n\n\n The non-profit organization is located in Washington<\/a>, DC and consists solely of chief executives from major US companies. BRT has called on the SEC to revamp the shareholder proposal process for public institutions, aiming to make it harder for activist suggestions to appear on business proxy ballots.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT\u2019s whitepaper, The Need for Bold Proxy Process Reforms, clearly advocates for stronger oversight of proxy advisory companies to curb their power and suggests reforming the proxy process to align with what it identifies as the long-term interests of shareholders. The report highlights recent cases where savvy investors, often with only the tiniest financial investments, have leveraged the proxy process to advance their own public approach goals unrelated to company performance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The shift has caused proxy statements to turn into \u201cbattlegrounds for contentious social debates,\u201d detracting from discussions about strategic preferences and the planned purposes of stakeholder arrangement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT's report specifies the following targeted policy recommendations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The recommendations aim to address a regulatory process at the SEC described in the report as \u201cinconsistent, opaque, and unpredictable.\u201d Additionally, it focuses on unaccountable proxy advisory companies that<\/a> significantly influence vote outcomes and corporate governance. BRT emphasized the need for broader structural reforms to shield investors and to ensure that US capital markets remain a catalyst for economic growth and opportunity.\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"US lobby group calls for reform of outdated proxy voting systems","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-lobby-group-calls-for-reform-of-outdated-proxy-voting-systems","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7623","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7624,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_content":"\n AstraZeneca has reentered the primary U.S. pharmaceutical lobby group nearly two years after its exit, according to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). This move comes after the British drugmaker declared a $3.5 billion acquisition in the United States last year, intended to enhance its research and development (R&D) and product development abilities by the end of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The company re-engages with the trade organization as pharmaceutical firms get ready to tackle possible tariffs and drug import fees during President Donald Trump's administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We are also expanding our presence in the United States with significant investments in research, development and manufacturing,\" said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca\u2019s Chief Executive Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Soriot stated that AstraZeneca is \"committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to maintain the U.S. as a global authority in biomedical innovation while ensuring that medicines are affordable for all who need them.\" In May 2023, the London-based company chose to exit the group and pursue different advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is the country's largest trade association of major drug manufacturers, based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1958, PhRMA has been one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the nation, working on behalf of the pharmaceutical sector across a broad spectrum of policy matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has persistently lobbied against federal and state initiatives to set drug price caps, enhance price transparency, or permit Medicare to negotiate prices. PhRMA contends that price controls would suppress innovation and lower the incentive for research and development, although critics point out that drug companies spend more on marketing than on research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA also justifies robust patent protections and has resisted global attempts to waive intellectual property rights, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, on the grounds that waivers would destroy innovation and global health responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PhRMA has recently conducted high-profile ad campaigns and lobbying efforts to drive reforms against PBMs, who they characterize as \"middlemen\" that cause drug prices to be too high. The efforts are designed to get more savings<\/a> to patients and provide more transparency in the supply chain of drugs. PhRMA spent about $31.7 million in federal lobbying during 2024, ranking among the highest spending of all industries. The group hires several lobbying firms on a regular basis and employs large resources to shape legislation and regulation.<\/p>\n","post_title":"AstraZeneca rejoins major US pharmaceutical lobby after two years away","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"astrazeneca-rejoins-major-us-pharmaceutical-lobby-after-two-years-away","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 20:06:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7624","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
This is the second deal the Democratic Party has inked with people close to US President Donald Trump in the last three months. Previously, one of Trump's two primary strategists from the previous presidential campaign, Chris LaCivita, controlled the business that handled the PR for the May 11 campaign.<\/p>\n\n\n\n SPAK is the Special Anti-Corruption and Organised Crime Structure in Albania, set up as part of a comprehensive system of judicial reform aimed at the fight against high-level corruption and organized crime and bringing the country up to the standards of the European Union. SPAK was set up after Albania's 2013 constitutional reform, which was meant to deal with entrenched corruption in the judiciary and the public sector. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The reforms created an independent institutional framework for the investigation, prosecution, and judicial treatment of organized crime and corruption cases. SPAK is formed by a Special Prosecution Office (separate from other prosecution offices) and a subordinated National Bureau of Investigation. SPAK Courts, which began activities on December 19, 2019, are replacing the previous Serious Crime Courts and exercise nationwide jurisdiction in related cases.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Albania\u2019s Democratic party under investigation over $6 million US lobbying deal","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"albanias-democratic-party-under-investigation-over-6-million-us-lobbying-deal","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-28 19:22:46","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-28 19:22:46","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7639","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7638,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-27 19:13:05","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-27 19:13:05","post_content":"\n As Korea Zinc deepens its efforts to address a management dispute with MBK Partners and rising geopolitical risks, the South Korean mining company has emerged as a prominent player in Washington's lobbying arena.<\/p>\n\n\n\n South Korean firms have notably intensified their lobbying activities in the United States against the backdrop of changing U.S. trade policies, threats of tariffs, and changing regulatory environments under both the Trump and Biden administrations. This increased lobbying is necessitated by the imperative of defending their investments, obtaining preferential terms for further expansion, and managing uncertainty related to tariffs, export controls, and industrial policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n According to the U.S. Lobbying Disclosure Act, the company's $500,000 contract with Mercury Public Affairs (MPA) in the first quarter of 2025 was the ninth-largest single lobbying agreement during that time frame.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Since Trump's return to power, MPA, a politically connected business with connections to important Trump administration personnel, including White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, has rapidly expanded. In only the first quarter, the company signed contracts for $5.2 million.<\/p>\n\n\n\n After first retaining MPA in February 2024, Korea Zinc has extended the contract five times, most recently tripling the $250,000 quarterly payment. According to MPA's papers, Korea Zinc is receiving advice from the company on matters pertaining to \"critical minerals, recycling, and clean energy subsidies.\" David Vitter, a former Republican senator and congressman, and Cheri Bustos, a former Democratic congresswoman, are important lobbyists on the account.<\/p>\n\n\n\n According to congressional records, just eight<\/a> other corporations inked larger lobbying deals during the quarter, including chipmaker Qualcomm ($680,000) and Nippon Steel, which is attempting to purchase U.S. Steel ($1.7 million).<\/p>\n\n\n\n In March, Impression Strategy, a new lobbying firm, was hired by Korea Zinc's U.S. affiliate, Pedalpoint Holdings, under a $40,000 contract. Brad Stewart, a seasoned Capitol Hill<\/a> assistant who was once Rep. Zach Nunn's chief of staff and is well-known for his connections to Trump's political network, is one of its lobbyists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With vital minerals at the heart of the intensifying struggle, the company's expanding Washington presence coincides with resurgent U.S.-China trade tensions under President Trump. In Washington's attempts to secure supply lines for these resources, Korea is viewed as a crucial ally. The U.S.-led Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), an effort to challenge China's hegemony in the world's vital minerals market, was chaired for a year by South Korea in July 2024.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Korea Zinc intensifies lobbying in US through firm tied to Trump","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"korea-zinc-intensifies-lobbying-in-us-through-firm-tied-to-trump","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-28 19:23:18","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-28 19:23:18","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7638","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7623,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:58:16","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:16","post_content":"\n Immediate steps are essential from the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Congress to update obsolete proxy-voting processes, according to a report issued by the lobbyist association Business Roundtable (BRT). <\/p>\n\n\n\n The non-profit organization is located in Washington<\/a>, DC and consists solely of chief executives from major US companies. BRT has called on the SEC to revamp the shareholder proposal process for public institutions, aiming to make it harder for activist suggestions to appear on business proxy ballots.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT\u2019s whitepaper, The Need for Bold Proxy Process Reforms, clearly advocates for stronger oversight of proxy advisory companies to curb their power and suggests reforming the proxy process to align with what it identifies as the long-term interests of shareholders. The report highlights recent cases where savvy investors, often with only the tiniest financial investments, have leveraged the proxy process to advance their own public approach goals unrelated to company performance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The shift has caused proxy statements to turn into \u201cbattlegrounds for contentious social debates,\u201d detracting from discussions about strategic preferences and the planned purposes of stakeholder arrangement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The BRT's report specifies the following targeted policy recommendations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The recommendations aim to address a regulatory process at the SEC described in the report as \u201cinconsistent, opaque, and unpredictable.\u201d Additionally, it focuses on unaccountable proxy advisory companies that<\/a> significantly influence vote outcomes and corporate governance. BRT emphasized the need for broader structural reforms to shield investors and to ensure that US capital markets remain a catalyst for economic growth and opportunity.\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"US lobby group calls for reform of outdated proxy voting systems","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-lobby-group-calls-for-reform-of-outdated-proxy-voting-systems","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:58:17","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7623","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7624,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-26 19:55:57","post_content":"\n AstraZeneca has reentered the primary U.S. pharmaceutical lobby group nearly two years after its exit, according to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). This move comes after the British drugmaker declared a $3.5 billion acquisition in the United States last year, intended to enhance its research and development (R&D) and product development abilities by the end of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The company re-engages with the trade organization as pharmaceutical firms get ready to tackle possible tariffs and drug import fees during
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