Risky business and the boards who play that way : Practices owe much to the composition of boards of directors

Purpose This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings Examines data from 260 companies on the UK’s FTSE 350 market to consider the extent to which risk-taking in businesses is related to the composition of boards. Establishes that there are board attributes that are significantly related to firm risk. In particular, these boards might be small in size, have high equity ownership among executive board directors and also have high institutional investor ownership. There is some lesser evidence that a greater number of women on boards might lead to a decrease in risk-taking. Practical implications The paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world’s leading organizations. Originality/value The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.