HSBC eyes digital AGM amid fears of protests By CALUM MUIRHEAD Updated: 16:51 EDT, 25 April 2025 e-mail View comments HSBC has considered scrapping its in-person annual general meeting to cut costs and prevent disruption from protesters. The banking giant discussed moving its yearly gathering of shareholders to a digital-only format to save money on leasing venues, providing refreshments and hiring security. HSBC is also said to be considering the move to prevent its AGMs being hijacked by protesters, particularly climate activists such as Extinction Rebellion.
There is speculation the bank's gathering next Friday may be its last in-person AGM, the Financial Times reported. Online only: HSBC has considered scrapping its in-person annual general meeting to cut costs and prevent disruption from protesters RELATED ARTICLES Previous 1 Next Don't turn up! Big firms bar investors from AGMs Building society boss is paid £5.7million in just two years,.
.. Share this article Share HOW THIS IS MONEY CAN HELP How to choose the best (and cheapest) stocks and shares Isa and the right DIY investing account HSBC has denied it is considering removing the option for investors to attend the meetings in person.
Climate protesters have targeted the bank on multiple occasions, interrupting chairman Mark Tucker's speech in 2022. Drugs giant AstraZeneca, toothpaste maker Haleon and building society Nationwide have made their AGMs online-only. But critics of the move say the trend violates a key principle and shareholder democracy.
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HSBC eyes digital AGM amid fears of protests

The bank is looking to save money on leasing venues, providing refreshments and hiring security. It is also looking to deter the likes of Extinction Rebellion.