Marketplace Morning Report Shares at Nestlé fall after its CEO is fired
Sep 2, 2025
Nestlé's shares plummet following the firing of its CEO due to undisclosed workplace relationships, raising questions about corporate ethics. Meanwhile, Kim Jong Un makes headlines with a rare visit to China amid geopolitical tensions. Economic shifts unfold with significant gas deals between Russia and China. The podcast also highlights a Swiss town's fight to rebuild after an avalanche, showcasing the resilience of communities facing climate-induced disasters.
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CEO Exit After Relationship Probe
- Nestlé's CEO Laurent Freixe left after less than a year amid allegations of a relationship with a subordinate and a conflict of interest.
- The board's decision followed an outside probe that upheld complaints raised through the whistleblowing channel.
External Probe Reversed Internal Finding
- Nestlé initially cleared Laurent Freixe after an internal investigation but reopened the case as more complaints surfaced.
- An independent external investigation ultimately upheld the allegation and forced his resignation without any exit package.
Governance Questions Sparked By Resignation
- The leadership change is disruptive for Nestlé and raises broader corporate governance questions.
- The case echoes other high-profile resignations and fuels debate about workplace relationships and conflicts of interest.