Stock Option Agreement between Northern Bank of Commerce and Cowlitz Bancorporation dated September 14, 1999. 26 pages.
Connecticut Stock Option Agreement between Northern Bank of Commerce and Cowling Ban corporation: A Detailed Description Introduction: The Connecticut Stock Option Agreement is a legally binding contract between Northern Bank of Commerce (NBC) and Cowling Ban corporation (Cowling) that outlines the terms and conditions for stock options. This agreement allows employees, directors, or other eligible individuals within Cowling to purchase a specific number of shares of NBC's stock at a predetermined price for a defined period of time. Key Clauses and Provisions: 1. Stock Option Grant: The agreement specifies the number of stock options granted to the participant, indicating the total quantity of shares available for purchase. This figure may vary depending on the individual's position, tenure, or performance within Cowling. 2. Exercise Price: The contract defines the exercise price, representing the predetermined cost at which the stock options can be purchased by the participant. This price is usually determined based on the stock's market value at the time of the agreement. 3. Vesting Schedule: To incentivize long-term commitment and loyalty, the Stock Option Agreement often includes a vesting schedule. This schedule outlines the period over which the stock options become exercisable, preventing immediate access to all shares and encouraging continued service with Cowling. 4. Expiration Date: The agreement sets an expiration date, the deadline by which the stock options must be exercised. If the options are not exercised within this timeframe, they typically become null and void. 5. Terms of Exercise: The agreement specifies the method and timeframe in which the participant can exercise their stock options. It may include provisions to exercise the options fully or in increments, allowing the individual to convert the options into actual shares of NBC's stock. Types of Connecticut Stock Option Agreements: 1. Incentive Stock Option (ISO): This type of agreement offers tax advantages to the participant when specific requirements are met. SOS typically have stricter eligibility criteria, holding periods, and restrictions on the number of shares granted. 2. Non-Qualified Stock Option (NO): Nests are stock options that don't meet the requirements for SOS. These options provide more flexibility in terms of eligibility, vesting, and taxation. However, they often incur higher tax obligations for the participant upon exercise. 3. Restricted Stock Units (RSS): While not strictly classified as stock options, RSS can be a part of the overall equity compensation plan. RSS grant the right to receive shares of stock at a future date, usually upon vesting and completion of certain performance goals. Conclusion: The Connecticut Stock Option Agreement between Northern Bank of Commerce and Cowling Ban corporation is a contractual arrangement that grants eligible individuals within Cowling the opportunity to purchase NBC's stock at a predetermined price within a defined timeframe. The agreement encompasses various provisions such as the granting of stock options, exercise price determination, vesting schedule, expiration date, and terms of exercise. Different types of Stock Option Agreements, including Incentive Stock Options, Non-Qualified Stock Options, and Restricted Stock Units, may be offered based on the participants' qualifications and the overall compensation structure.
Connecticut Stock Option Agreement between Northern Bank of Commerce and Cowling Ban corporation: A Detailed Description Introduction: The Connecticut Stock Option Agreement is a legally binding contract between Northern Bank of Commerce (NBC) and Cowling Ban corporation (Cowling) that outlines the terms and conditions for stock options. This agreement allows employees, directors, or other eligible individuals within Cowling to purchase a specific number of shares of NBC's stock at a predetermined price for a defined period of time. Key Clauses and Provisions: 1. Stock Option Grant: The agreement specifies the number of stock options granted to the participant, indicating the total quantity of shares available for purchase. This figure may vary depending on the individual's position, tenure, or performance within Cowling. 2. Exercise Price: The contract defines the exercise price, representing the predetermined cost at which the stock options can be purchased by the participant. This price is usually determined based on the stock's market value at the time of the agreement. 3. Vesting Schedule: To incentivize long-term commitment and loyalty, the Stock Option Agreement often includes a vesting schedule. This schedule outlines the period over which the stock options become exercisable, preventing immediate access to all shares and encouraging continued service with Cowling. 4. Expiration Date: The agreement sets an expiration date, the deadline by which the stock options must be exercised. If the options are not exercised within this timeframe, they typically become null and void. 5. Terms of Exercise: The agreement specifies the method and timeframe in which the participant can exercise their stock options. It may include provisions to exercise the options fully or in increments, allowing the individual to convert the options into actual shares of NBC's stock. Types of Connecticut Stock Option Agreements: 1. Incentive Stock Option (ISO): This type of agreement offers tax advantages to the participant when specific requirements are met. SOS typically have stricter eligibility criteria, holding periods, and restrictions on the number of shares granted. 2. Non-Qualified Stock Option (NO): Nests are stock options that don't meet the requirements for SOS. These options provide more flexibility in terms of eligibility, vesting, and taxation. However, they often incur higher tax obligations for the participant upon exercise. 3. Restricted Stock Units (RSS): While not strictly classified as stock options, RSS can be a part of the overall equity compensation plan. RSS grant the right to receive shares of stock at a future date, usually upon vesting and completion of certain performance goals. Conclusion: The Connecticut Stock Option Agreement between Northern Bank of Commerce and Cowling Ban corporation is a contractual arrangement that grants eligible individuals within Cowling the opportunity to purchase NBC's stock at a predetermined price within a defined timeframe. The agreement encompasses various provisions such as the granting of stock options, exercise price determination, vesting schedule, expiration date, and terms of exercise. Different types of Stock Option Agreements, including Incentive Stock Options, Non-Qualified Stock Options, and Restricted Stock Units, may be offered based on the participants' qualifications and the overall compensation structure.