Frequently Asked Questions

Here you'll find answers to some of the common questions that ADR holders ask.

General

Who is Diageo's depositary bank?

Citibank is Diageo's depositary bank. Visit our contacts page for full Citibank contact details.

What is the difference between a registered holder and a beneficial ADR holder?

A registered holder is one whose name appears on the books of the depositary. The registered holder is considered the owner of the record. A beneficial holder is one whose holdings are registered in a name other than his or her own, such as the name of a broker, bank or nominee account.

What is Diageo's trading symbol and ADR ratio?

Diageo is traded in the US on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol DEO. Four ordinary Diageo shares represent one Diageo ADS.

How do I convert my ordinary shares into ADRs?

Converting ordinary shares into ADRs must be done through a broker or investment advisor. Contact Citibank’s ADR desk for more information using the following details.

London: +44 (0) 207 500 2030

New York: +1 212 723 5435

E-mail: [email protected]

What is Diageo's CUSIP number?

25243Q205

What is Diageo’s Stock Exchange Daily Official List (SEDOL) number?

023740

Who will vote the ADRs held at the shareholders' meeting?

Holders of ADRs, as of record date, are entitled to instruct the depositary bank, Citibank, to vote at the company's shareholder meeting with respect to the number of ordinary shares represented by the respective ADRs held.

What is Diageo's fiscal year and corresponding earnings release dates?

Our fiscal year runs from 1 July to 30 June. Key dates are listed on our financial calendar.

I have had a change in personal circumstances. How do I notify you?

Please contact Citibank Shareholder Services, who will be able to provide further information. Visit our contacts page for full Citibank contact details.

Dividends

When will the Diageo ADR dividends be paid and in what currency are they paid?

Diageo expects to announce two dividends a year, which are paid by Diageo and then distributed to you by the ADR depositary, Citibank, in US dollars. The most recent dividend payment dates are listed on financial calendar.

Can I have my dividends directly deposited?

All or a portion of your cash dividend can be deposited directly to your bank account. In order to take advantage of this option your bank or financial institution must be part of Automatic Clearing House. If you are interested in this option, please contact Citibank Shareholder Services. Visit our contacts page for full Citibank contact details.

What happens if I lose my dividend cheque or tax form?

You may request the replacement of lost or missing cheques by contacting Citibank Shareholder Services. Please ensure you have your Social Security Taxpayer Identification number ready when calling. Visit our contacts page for full Citibank contact details.

How would a transaction in ADS shares be taxed?

Neither Diageo nor Citibank can give advice on tax matters. All tax matters should be referred to your financial or tax adviser.

In what currency do Canadian residents receive dividends?

Resident Canadian ADS shareholders will receive their dividends in US dollars.

Does Diageo offer reinvestment for ADR holders?

Citibank operates an International Direct Investment Plan for Diageo's ADR programme. Visit our dividend information page for further details.

Buying and selling ordinary shares

How can I sell my ADRs or purchase more?

ADSs can be purchased via any of the following methods:

  • Through a stock broker or investment adviser
  • Through Citibank's International Direct Investment Plan, which offers existing shareholders and interested first-time investors a direct, affordable alternative for buying and selling Diageo ADSs

Please note: Diageo and Citibank Shareholder Services are not able to offer investment advice. Should you have questions regarding investment in this plan, kindly consult an independent financial adviser.

Can I transfer my ADRs?

Participants in Citibank's International Direct Plan can opt for the transfer of shares in either book entry or certificated form. You may transfer or gift ADSs in your account. Please contact Citibank Shareholder Services for more information.

The International Direct Investment Plan is sponsored and administered solely by Citibank and not by Diageo. If you have any questions or would like to receive a brochure, please contact Citibank Shareholder Services. You can also download an investment brochure featuring highlights of the Plan. Visit our contacts page for full Citibank contact details.