Maryland Stock Option Agreement is a legal document that outlines the terms and conditions related to stock options issued by Northern Bank of Commerce to Cowling Ban corporation, based in Maryland. This agreement provides guidelines for the purchase and sale of specific stocks at predetermined prices and within specified timeframes. The Maryland Stock Option Agreement between Northern Bank of Commerce and Cowling Ban corporation is designed to provide Cowling Ban corporation with the opportunity to purchase a specific number of shares of Northern Bank of Commerce's stock at a predetermined price, known as the exercise price. This agreement enables Cowling Ban corporation to invest in Northern Bank of Commerce's stock and potentially benefit from any increase in its value. The key elements of a Maryland Stock Option Agreement typically include the grant date, the exercise price, the expiration date, the vesting period, and the total number of stock options granted. The grant date refers to the date on which the stock options are awarded to Cowling Ban corporation. The exercise price, also known as the strike price, is the price at which the shares can be purchased by Cowling Ban corporation in the future. The expiration date signifies the final date on which the stock options can be exercised, beyond which they become invalid. The vesting period indicates the duration during which the stock options become available for exercise. This period may vary based on the terms negotiated between the parties involved. There can be various types of Maryland Stock Option Agreements between Northern Bank of Commerce and Cowling Ban corporation, including: 1. Non-Qualified Stock Option (NO) Agreement: This type of agreement provides Cowling Ban corporation with the flexibility to purchase the company's stock at a predetermined price. SOS are not subject to specific tax advantages and are often used for compensation purposes. 2. Incentive Stock Option (ISO) Agreement: This agreement grants Cowling Ban corporation the right to purchase Northern Bank of Commerce's stock under specific tax advantages. SOS typically offer tax benefits if certain requirements, such as a holding period and employment status, are met. 3. Restricted Stock Unit (RSU) Agreement: In this type of agreement, stock options are awarded to Cowling Ban corporation as a form of compensation. However, the shares are subject to certain restrictions or vesting periods, which require Cowling Ban corporation to fulfill specific criteria or remain with the company for a predetermined period to fully benefit from the stock options. These are some key aspects and types of Maryland Stock Option Agreements that can exist between Northern Bank of Commerce and Cowling Ban corporation. It is essential for both parties to understand and comply with the terms and conditions outlined in the agreement to ensure a smooth and mutually beneficial stock option transaction.