Simon English: Ashley's bonus benefit isn't kidding anyone
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Outlook Minus points for Sports Direct, which yesterday unveiled a "Super-Stretch Executive Bonus Share Scheme" for the company's founder and majority owner Mike Ashley.
The Newcastle United owner was not a participant in the present executive bonus scheme, "which is a situation the board wishes to remedy", owing to his "substantial contribution to the company".
There's nothing particularly wrong with Mr Ashley taking more money out of this business if it is doing well (the targets are fairly challenging).
But since he owns 70 per cent of it and no one says boo without his nod, pretending that directors independently decided it is important to give him a bonus is laughable.
It's not like Mr Ashley needs incentivising. It's his company. So he's in effect paying himself. For the same reason, his not taking a salary is not an act of corporate beneficence. It's a way to pay less tax.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments