What is the primary purpose of corporate governance?

The primary purpose of corporate governance is to ensure that companies are directed and controlled effectively. It involves establishing a set of rules, practices, and processes that dictate how a company is managed and how decisions are made, ensuring accountability and transparency to stakeholders. This encompasses the relationship between the company's management, its board, shareholders, and other stakeholders, providing a structure that not only governs the company’s operations but also aims to improve its performance and sustainability over the long term.

While generating profits for shareholders is a significant objective for many companies, it falls under the broader governance framework rather than being the main purpose itself. Similarly, while employee satisfaction and controlling operational costs are important aspects of running a successful business, they are not the primary focus of corporate governance. Instead, they could be considered outcomes or considerations that are addressed within the governance framework, contributing to the overall health and performance of the organization.