Virtual meetings are quickly being adopted by entrenched boards who fear any attempt by shareholders, especially retail shareholders, to hold them accountable. Annual meetings are the only place shareholders are likely to meet with the managers and boards of the companies they invest in, as well as with employees of those companies and with other shareowners. Comcast (CMCSA) spins their May 16 meeting as one that "will provide expanded shareholder access and participation, improved communications and, over time, cost savings for our shareholders and company."