In the face of escalating global crises and increasing regulatory complexity, this article argues that early risk detection, resilience building, and proactive transformation constitute core governance responsibilities – so-called cardinal duties—for executive bodies and managers. Drawing on recent German and European case law, the authors demonstrate that failure to uphold these duties can lead not only to organizational failure and insolvency but also to personal liability and the loss of insurance coverage for directors and officers. Through empirical analyses of corporate reports and real-world case studies (e.g., BayWa, Wirecard), the article reveals systemic weaknesses in risk management, governance compliance, and auditor oversight. It underscores the urgent need for continuous, real-time risk monitoring and integrated governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) systems. In particular, the use of
AI and digital tools is no longer optional but a legal necessity for sound decision-making and crisis prevention. The authors advocate for a legally grounded, interdisciplinary governance approach, emphasizing that executive responsibility cannot be fully delegated and must meet methodological, structural, and ethical standards. The article concludes by warning that ignorance or neglect of these governance obligations – codified in laws such as StaRUG, AktG, and GmbHG – may constitute a breach of cardinal duty, triggering serious legal and financial consequences.
[Source: Scherer, J./Seehaus, S. (2025): Duty of Governance with Early Risk Detection, Resilience, and Transformation as a Cardinal Obligation of Executive Bodies and Managers, in: ZInsO (Journal for All Aspects of Insolvency and Restructuring Law), 28th volume, issue 31/2025, July 31, 2025, pp. 1515–1538.]