What is the minimum percentage of votes required to pass a special resolution?

A special resolution typically requires a minimum of 75% of the votes in favor for it to be passed. This requirement is commonly found in corporate governance and aligns with many jurisdictional guidelines, including the Companies Act in the UK and similar regulations in other countries.

The rationale behind the higher threshold for special resolutions is to ensure that significant decisions—such as altering the company's articles of association, approving mergers and acquisitions, or other major corporate changes—reflect a strong consensus among shareholders. This level of agreement is viewed as necessary to protect the interests of all stakeholders and maintain stability within the company.

In contrast, normal resolutions usually require a simple majority, which is 50% plus one vote; this is typically deemed sufficient for routine matters. Higher percentages, such as 60% or 90%, are not standard for most special resolutions, thereby reinforcing the idea that a balance between majority support and the severity of the decision being made is crucial in corporate decision-making processes.