The recruitment of black directors and the discussion of diversity in company documents both increased following the death of George Floyd.

Studies appear to show a causal link between diversity and financial performance. But the methods are not robust enough to draw this conclusion.

Study says selection processes are “distorted by the assumption that those who do not resemble existing board members are less ‘impressive’”.

Nominations committees must be more diverse themselves if they are to boost diversity in their organisations, says a report for the Financial Reporting Council.

ISS research shows 148 black directors were appointed to S&P 500 companies in the past 12 months, compared with 52 in the year to May 2020.

Despite progress in diversity at board level, a more critical lens is required to see past “quick wins” for long-term, sustainable change.

Engagement figures from LGIM show investors did not allow Covid-19 to shift their focus from core concerns such as diversity and climate.

While Cyrus Taraporevala is optimistic about progress on reporting, he revealed concerns about a lack of clear diversity policies and goals.

The “one by 2021” campaign to increase ethnic minority representation on UK boards has seen “significant progress”—but laggards remain.

A count by diversity campaign group the 30% Club shows that there is now a woman on the board at every company in the FTSE 100 and FTSE 250.