Sonova Holding AG (SWX: SOON), a global leader in innovative hearing care solutions, held its 41st Annual General Meeting (AGM) on June 16, 2026, in Stafa, Switzerland. Shareholders approved all motions submitted by the Board of Directors, underscoring strong support for the company's strategic direction and financial performance.
The AGM saw 354 shareholders attend in person, representing 67.84% of the share capital. Key approvals included the Annual Report, consolidated financial statements, and the report on non-financial matters for the 2025/26 financial year. Shareholders also endorsed the appropriation of retained earnings and a gross dividend of CHF 4.70 per registered share—the highest in the company's history—corresponding to a payout ratio of around 45%. The dividend is expected to be paid from June 23, 2026.
The Compensation Report for the 2025/26 financial year was accepted in a non-binding advisory vote. In binding votes, shareholders approved maximum aggregate compensation for the Board of Directors from the 2026 AGM to the 2027 AGM, and for Group Executives for the 2027/28 financial year.
All Board members standing for re-election were confirmed individually. New independent members elected were 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 newly joining the committee.
Ernst & Young AG, Zurich, was re-elected as auditor for one year, and Anwaltskanzlei Keller AG, Zurich, as independent proxy. The next AGM is scheduled for June 15, 2027. Detailed voting results will be available on the Sonova website at https://www.sonova.com/en/AGM.
The approval of a record dividend signals strong financial health and commitment to shareholder returns. Sonova, which generated sales of CHF 3.6 billion and net profit of CHF 546 million in the 2025/26 financial year, employs over 18,000 people and operates through brands such as Phonak, Unitron, AudioNova, and Advanced Bionics. The company was ranked no. 12 among the most innovative companies in Europe by Fortune in 2025. This shareholder endorsement reinforces confidence in Sonova's strategy to lead in hearing care innovation and expand its global footprint.
