Share owner FAQs
Below are a collection of questions frequently asked by our shareholders.
What does 'WPP' stand for?'WPP' stands for 'Wire and Plastic Products', a UK manufacturer of wire baskets in which Martin Sorrell invested following his search for a public entity through which to build a worldwide marketing services company.
Who owns WPP?WPP is a public company, listed in New York and London, with its main shareholders based in the US and the UK.
To whom should shareholders direct share administration questions?We recommend you discuss share-owning issues with our Registrars in the UK and USA:
When does WPP pay dividends?WPP
dividends are paid mid-July and mid-November to shareowners.
How do I reclaim tax on dividends?Where dividends are paid in the form of foreign income dividends, no income tax is recoverable. Dividends not paid in the form of foreign income dividends are paid with income tax deducted at the lower rate (20%). The amount deducted is shown on the dividend tax voucher. If your total income for the year subject to tax is less than the gross dividend (net dividend plus tax credit) you may be entitled to reclaim part or all of the dividend credit. Those most likely to be entitled to a repayment of tax include married women not in employment, pensioners and children. If you think you may be entitled to claim, ask your local Tax Office for Form R40 (SP). The address can be found in the telephone book under 'Inland Revenue'.
Does WPP have a Dividend Reinvestment Programme?Not formally, but we suggest you contact your UK or US Registrar to see what services they have
In the UK, what are the capital gains implications of holding WPP shares?The market value of an ordinary share at 31 March 1982 was 39p. Since that date rights issues have occurred in September 1986, August 1987 and April 1993. For capital gains tax purposes the acquisition cost of ordinary shares is adjusted to take account of such rights issues. Since any adjustments will depend on individual circumstances, share owners are advised to consult their professional advisers.
What is WPP's financial year, and when does it report its results?WPP's financial year runs from 1 January to 31 December. Its full-year results are announced mid-February. For further details, please see our
Calendar.
When and where is WPP's Annual Share holder/General Meeting? WPP's AGM traditionally takes place in London at the end of June. You will be informed of the precise date closer to the event. If you are abroad, or cannot attend, increasingly you will be able to attend this event virtually via an Internet webcast.
On what stock exchanges is WPP listed?WPP has primary listings on the London Stock Exchange and on NASDAQ
What is the share symbol for WPP?In London, the share symbol is WPP; on NASDAQ WPPGY.
What is WPP's official accounting currency?WPP reports in pounds sterling.