The Great Deception: A Comprehensive Study of Execution Strategies in Corporate Share Buy-Backs

Abstract

We delve into the intricate world of share buy-backs, a strategic corporate capital allocation tool that has gained significant prominence over the past few decades. Despite being the subject of extensive research and debate, the execution phase of these transactions remains an underexplored area. This lack of research into the execution phase is surprising, especially when compared to the extensive literature on other capital allocation decisions, such as acquisition pricing. We aim to shed light on the execution practices of share buy-backs, highlighting challenges and opportunities that arise and presenting a comparative analysis with other aspects of capital allocation. From an outsider's perspective, this paper analyses the seemingly disparate practices and aims to uncover the "dark arts" of execution. The intention is to assist corporations, investors, and regulators in better understanding the intricacies of executing share buy-backs, emphasizing the need for a cost-efficient and regulatory compliant service for corporations trading their own listed securities. We question the seemingly disproportionate fees charged to corporations for similar or even inferior outcomes, compared to retail and institutional investors. We illustrate potential inefficiencies and frictional costs in the current execution phase. The examples highlight the need for greater transparency and fairness in share buy-back executions, advocating for more equitable processes that benefit all stakeholders in the capital markets ecosystem. With the surge in regulatory attention and political pressure fueled by the rising prominence of buy-backs and evolving ESG considerations, it is crucial that we enhance understanding of this key area. This paper seeks to foster dialogue and encourage transparency, thus promoting the efficient use of resources in capital markets, and ultimately, benefiting shareholders.