Sonova Holding AG (SWX: SOON), a global leader in hearing care solutions, held its 41st Annual General Meeting (AGM) on June 16, 2026, where shareholders approved all motions proposed by the Board of Directors. The meeting, attended by 354 shareholders in person, represented 67.84% of the company's share capital. The approval of the annual report, consolidated financial statements, and the proposed appropriation of retained earnings underscores the company's robust financial health and strategic execution.
A key highlight was the approval of a gross dividend of CHF 4.70 per registered share, the highest in Sonova's history, corresponding to a payout ratio of approximately 45%. This dividend reflects the company's strong cash generation and commitment to shareholder returns. Payment is expected to take place from June 23, 2026. The shareholders also formally discharged the Board of Directors and Group Executives for the 2025/26 financial year, signaling confidence in their leadership.
In advisory and binding votes, the Compensation Report for 2025/26 was accepted, and shareholders approved the maximum aggregate compensation for the Board of Directors (from AGM 2026 to AGM 2027) and for Group Executives (for the 2027/28 financial year). These approvals demonstrate alignment between management and shareholder interests regarding executive remuneration.
The AGM saw the re-election of all standing Board members and the election of three new independent directors: Ingrid Cotoros, Malina Man Lin Ngai, and Hooi Ling Tan. Roland Diggelmann (Chair), Gregory Behar, and Julie Tay were re-elected to the Nomination & Compensation Committee, with Malina Man Lin Ngai joining as a new member. These appointments bring fresh perspectives to the board, supporting Sonova's innovation and growth strategies.
Ernst & Young AG, Zurich, was re-elected as auditor for one year, and Anwaltskanzlei Keller AG, Zurich, was re-elected as independent proxy. The next AGM is scheduled for June 15, 2027. Detailed voting results and minutes (in German) will be available on the Sonova website: https://www.sonova.com/en/AGM.
Sonova's strong performance in the 2025/26 financial year, with sales of CHF 3.6 billion and net profit of CHF 546 million, underscores its market leadership. The company's commitment to innovation was recognized by Fortune magazine, ranking it no. 12 among Europe's most innovative companies in 2025. With over 18,000 employees, Sonova continues to advance hearing care solutions through brands like Phonak, Unitron, AudioNova, and Advanced Bionics. More information is available at www.sonova.com.
The approval of all motions and the record dividend signal strong shareholder support for Sonova's strategy and governance. The company's focus on innovation and vertical integration positions it well to address the growing global demand for hearing care solutions.
