Abbott Laboratories (ABT) Proxy Filing summary

Executive summary

• Annual meeting scheduled for April 24, 2026, with virtual participation and voting options for shareholders of record as of February 25, 2026.

• Proxy covers election of 12 directors, ratification of auditors, advisory vote on executive compensation, and approval of two equity plans.

• Company delivered strong shareholder returns: 1-year TSR of 13%, 3-year TSR of 21%, and 5-year TSR of 25%, all above peer medians.

• $5 billion returned to shareholders in 2025; 6.8% dividend increase for 2026, marking 54 consecutive years of dividend growth.

• Robust innovation pipeline and investments in manufacturing and product approvals position the company for long-term growth.

Voting matters and shareholder proposals

• Board recommends voting FOR all proposals: election of 12 directors, ratification of Ernst & Young LLP as auditors, say-on-pay, approval of the 2026 Incentive Stock Program, and approval of the 2026 Employee Stock Purchase Plan for Non-U.S. Employees.

• Shareholders may submit proposals for the 2027 meeting by November 13, 2026, and can nominate directors via proxy access if eligibility criteria are met.

Board of directors and corporate governance

• Board consists of 12 nominees with diverse backgrounds in healthcare, finance, technology, and global operations; 58% overall diversity, 50% women, 33% racial/ethnic diversity.

• Eleven of twelve nominees are independent; all committees are fully independent.

• Lead Independent Director oversees board evaluations, succession planning, and shareholder engagement.

• Annual board, committee, and director evaluations; five new independent directors added in the last five years.

• Board oversight includes strategy, risk, succession planning, and sustainability.