At its annual general meeting in Sydney, Seven West Media, led by chairman Kerry Stokes, faced a substantial shareholder revolt. Over 35% of shareholders opposed the company's 2025 remuneration report. This dissent arose even though no executive bonuses were awarded, as the company failed to meet financial targets in the last fiscal year.
Seven West Media is a prominent Australian media company with a broad portfolio spanning television, publishing, and digital media. Kerry Stokes, who may be chairing his final AGM due to a proposed acquisition by Southern Cross Media, directly addressed the shareholders' concerns.
"We have faced considerable challenges due to competition from very large international companies stealing all our revenue."
Stokes recognized the tough market environment and its effects on the company’s financial outcomes.
One shareholder expressed frustration over the drastic depreciation of their investment, which shrank from $1 million to $27,000. They urged the board to bring back dividend payments to restore shareholder value.
Seven West Media is under pressure as shareholders reject its remuneration report amid financial difficulties and competitive challenges, prompting calls for renewed dividends.