Regulators or corporate boards could, for example, require executives to hold their options and shares for years.

But in February 2003, it enacted a rule requiring top executives to hold at least 25 percent of options-related shares for two years.

Genuine shareholder democracy, he argues, would require chief executives to worry about the long-term health of the company, not the short-term fluctuations of stock prices.

The S.E.C. said last month that it would require top executives to swear by their financial statements, for example.

However, the company is now requiring senior executives to oversee it more closely to prevent future spending surprises, Ms. Fiorina said.

The compromise bill would require chief executives and chief financial officers to sign financial reports.

Which departments in your firm frequently require executives?

It now requires top executives at Neuer Markt companies to disclose any transactions in their company's stock.

He supported the bill in part because it contained his personal contribution: a measure requiring chief executives to take personal responsibility for corporate tax declarations.