Seven West Media Faces Shareholder Revolt Over 2025 Remuneration Report
At its annual general meeting in Sydney, Seven West Media, led by Kerry Stokes, confronted a substantial shareholder backlash. Over 35% of shareholders opposed the company’s 2025 remuneration report.
The protest emerged even though executives received no bonuses, as financial targets were not met during the past year.
Company Background and Leadership
Seven West Media is a leading Australian media company with holdings in television, publishing, and digital media. Kerry Stokes, potentially chairing his final AGM ahead of a proposed acquisition by Southern Cross Media, addressed shareholder concerns directly.
“We have faced considerable challenges due to competition from very large international companies stealing all our revenue,” Stokes remarked.
He acknowledged the tough market conditions and the negative impact on the company’s financial results.
Shareholder Concerns
One shareholder expressed deep dissatisfaction with their investment’s dramatic fall in value, from $1 million down to $27,000, and called on the board to resume dividend payments.
Key Points
- More than 35% of shareholders voted against the 2025 remuneration report.
- No executive bonuses were paid due to missed financial targets.
- The company faces strong competition from large international firms.
- Shareholders demand dividend reinstatement amid significant investment losses.
Author’s summary: Despite no executive bonuses, shareholder dissatisfaction over financial performance led to a strong revolt against Seven West Media's 2025 remuneration report and calls for dividend restoration.