AGM Season 2026: Many Companies Face Delisting Risk as Public Company Status Remains under Scrutiny

Against a backdrop of persistent macro headwinds, investors who can effectively leverage the AGM season may gain an edge in identifying opportunities. At the same time, opportunities can quickly turn into risks when market expectations diverge from official disclosures.

The AGM season, traditionally in April, is when investors look for catalysts as companies publish business plans, strategies, and development directions.

A “gold mine” of information for investors

In a macro environment full of challenges, the AGM season is described as a key trigger for April. Companies typically announce business plans, growth targets, and—particularly—dividend policies for 2026.

VDSC forecasts that first-quarter 2026 profits may rise by about 38% year-over-year, led by the banking and retail sectors and industries benefiting from global commodity prices. The report also highlights that information on cash dividends at high payout levels (35–60%) from leading companies may attract capital back into equities.

Experts say investors should shift from crowd trading to deeper, company-by-company analysis. The focus should be on stocks with solid fundamentals, favorable 2026 plans, and the potential to benefit from international capital flows, in a market phase described as “flat with dispersion.”

Hoang Viet Phuong, Head of Analysis and Investment Advisory at VNDIRECT Securities, said investors should focus on core information in business plans and financial direction to quickly identify stocks likely to attract funds.

Nguyen Thanh Trung, CEO of KimGroup Investment JSC, added that dividend information, capital increases, or expansion strategies can act as catalysts for stock price movements. He noted that high and stable cash dividends can reinforce long-term investor confidence and provide price support. Capital increases are viewed positively when they align with core growth, but may create pressure if they lead to dilution without a clear direction. He also said growth or M&A strategies can attract speculative money by creating new profit expectations.

Strategy for effective “hunt” for opportunities

Market reactions during AGM season are not driven only by actual information, but also by expectations. Some stocks may rally ahead of AGMs on rumors or positive expectations, but can fall sharply after official information is released in a “buy the rumor, sell the news” pattern. As a result, investors need a clear strategy and should avoid crowd psychology.

Experts emphasized that AGM season is not a period to “go hunting for news,” but a time to verify the quality of the company and its management. They also cautioned that not all AGM information carries the same value, and investors should focus on key signals in an information-rich environment that may include noise.

CEO FinSuccess Nguyen Thanh Trung said investors should rely on strategy rather than instinct to make good use of the AGM season.

1) Select the right company

Not every stock offers upside during this period. A common approach is to “front-run the expectations,” where investors buy before official disclosures if they believe the company will announce positive business plans or information that supports pre-AGM expectations. This can be profitable if expectations are met, but carries high risk if the information disappoints.

Another approach is to wait until after the AGM. With official information available and the market having reacted initially, investors can assess prospects more precisely. While returns may be lower than front-running, the safety level is described as higher.

2) “Stock-picking by story”

Investors can also focus on each company’s “story,” such as expansion into new markets, major project investments, restructuring, or business model shifts. Compelling stories with feasible execution are often linked to stronger stock-price moves.

3) Manage risk and avoid chasing prices

Risk management is highlighted as essential because AGM season can bring volatility driven by aggressive momentum trading. Investors are advised to set clear stop-loss and take-profit levels and avoid chasing prices when stocks surge. They should also avoid FOMO (fear of missing out), which can lead investors to buy at high prices and incur losses.

4) Consider macro factors and liquidity

Even with positive AGM information, broader market conditions and liquidity can limit gains. If the overall market is in a downtrend or liquidity is weak, stock price increases may be constrained. Conversely, in favorable market conditions, good company information may be amplified, leading to more notable gains.

5) Use technology, but verify information

Technology can help investors monitor AGM events online and access near real-time information through digital platforms, social media, and data-analytics tools, reducing information gaps and increasing competitiveness. However, rapid information spread also increases the risk of rumors and misinformation. Investors are advised to rely on official sources, verify information before making decisions, and avoid low-credibility forums.