16 Dec 2020
Full coverage: ANZ's 2020 AGM
None of us need a reminder of how difficult 2020 has been. I’m sure you, like I, have looked at the media every day and thought “what next?”.
As ANZ navigated through what by any measure was a fraught year we were very conscious of the impact of decisions made on our team, community and of course the owners of the company.
Our board’s choice to defer a decision on the interim dividend was significant. This was the first time in ANZ’s history as a listed company a dividend wasn’t announced with our financial results. The dividend was subsequently announced in August. Ultimately that decision, together with one to reduce the final dividend, was made in the long-term interests of all shareholders. We know this was a difficult outcome for many and these decisions were not made lightly or quickly.
Ultimately all shareholders will benefit if ANZ remains robust, our customers thrive, and our staff value the bank as a positive place to work.
Although we believe Australia and New Zealand, in particular, have come through the year with less economic damage than anticipated, there will be ongoing volatility. However, ANZ is in a very strong position as a business and is committed to supporting customers, staff and of course shareholders.
O’Sullivan: future board focuses
Newly appointed Chairman Paul O’Sullivan outlines the key areas for future focus by ANZ’s board, notably costs, capital and culture. He also addresses the bank’s performance and the dividend.
Elliott: getting on with the job
CEO Shayne Elliott outlines the key elements of ANZ’s strategy and the priorities for 2021 across the divisions and operations of the bank.
Board Minutes: new Chair
Learn more about ANZ’s new Chairman Paul O’Sullivan and the skills he will bring to the bank in this wide-ranging podcast.
Behind the (virtual) scenes of the AGM
Due to COVID-19 related restrictions, ANZ held its first ever virtual annual general meeting in 2020. Take a look at how the meeting adapted in these behind-the-scenes images.
History and heritage
The 50-year anniversary of the launch of the modern ANZ brand was a timely reminder of the enduring value of the bank today.
Aiming for net zero
ANZ will no longer directly finance new coal-fired power plants, thermal coal mines or expansions as the bank announces new initiatives to reach net zero emissions by 2050.
Partnering to push payments into the future
ANZ and Worldline have created a new joint venture to enhance the payments experience for both consumers and merchants.
The flexibility of work today and tomorrow
Finding the balance between enabling ANZ’s people to work flexibly while remaining focused on strategy and culture is of key importance to the bank.
A changing world
Family-owned business Mount Zero Olives had to think of a new strategy quickly when the pandemic shut down their main buyers.
Financial literacy – at a distance
Like other forms of education, financial literacy programs had to quickly switch to remote learning in 2020.
Working from home
Step into the homes and offices of ANZ’s Executive Committee to learn more about the person behind the desk.
Q&A: facing up to leadership, culture and challenges
ANZ Director Graeme Liebelt reflects on the experiences that led him to the bank’s board and what he looks for in leadership.
Jill Campbell is Group General Manager of Investor Relations at ANZ
The views and opinions expressed in this communication are those of the author and may not necessarily state or reflect those of ANZ.