The One-Tier and Two-Tier Board Structures and Hybrids in Asia - Convergence and What Really Matters for Corporate Governance

Abstract

This article launches first into its discussion on the features of the main board structures in Asia. Singapore, China and Japan are used as reference jurisdictions for the purposes of illustrating the workings of the one-tier, two-tier and hybrid board structures respectively. The article then proceeds to evaluate the failures of the board structures in the three jurisdictions, owing to structural weaknesses and contextual particularities. Thereafter, it analyses and evaluates the potential for convergence of a singular board structure in Asia. The article concludes by highlighting potential areas for reform and offering final conclusions.

Keywords: comparative law, corporate governance, board structures, Asia, Singapore one tier, China two tier, Japan hybrid

JEL Classification: K22, K33, G34, M12, M14