According to this Sydney Morning Herald article, taxpayer-owned businesses Australia Post and NBN have collectively paid out almost $300 million in personal bonuses to employees at the same time that the COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on businesses and families.

Student A argues that the purpose of executive remuneration is to align the executives' interests with those of shareholders and that these bonus payouts are excessive.

Student B argues that the directors of Australia Post and NBN believe the purpose of executive pay is to hold onto talent in a global market and that bonuses will motivate them to work in a way that also benefits the principals.

Important: To answer the decision case, (1) introduce the topic, (2) provide background context, and (3) draw your conclusion. Use the information in the article provided and apply one or more of the theories taught in this module to help you make your case.