The Tennessee Nonqualified Stock Option Plan is a crucial component of Banker's Note, Inc.'s compensation package designed to reward and retain talented employees. This plan offers various types of stock options that provide employees with an opportunity to purchase company stock at a predetermined price, even if the stock's value appreciates over time. One type of Tennessee Nonqualified Stock Option offered by Banker's Note, Inc. is the "Standard Nonqualified Stock Option." This option allows employees to purchase company stock at a set price, known as the grant price, within a defined exercise period. The grant price is usually set at the fair market value of the stock on the date the option is granted. Another variant is the "Incentive Nonqualified Stock Option," which is primarily granted to key employees and serves as a motivational tool. This option offers tax advantages to employees, as they may qualify for more favorable tax treatment upon exercise and sale of the underlying stock. The Tennessee Nonqualified Stock Option Plan also encompasses the "Non-statutory Nonqualified Stock Option," which is similar to the Standard Nonqualified Stock Option. However, it doesn't qualify for special tax treatment under the Internal Revenue Code. Employees who choose this option may exercise it at the grant price within the specified exercise period. Banker's Note, Inc.'s Tennessee Nonqualified Stock Option Plan further supports the company's goals of equity and employee retention by attaching certain conditions called "vesting periods" to the stock options. Vesting periods define the length of time an employee must remain with the company before being eligible to exercise the stock option. By rewarding loyalty and long-term commitment, this plan incentivizes employees to contribute to the company's success. In summary, the Tennessee Nonqualified Stock Option Plan of Banker's Note, Inc. offers employees the opportunity to purchase company stock at a predetermined price, regardless of its future value. With various types of stock options available, such as the Standard Nonqualified Stock Option and the Incentive Nonqualified Stock Option, employees can choose the option that best aligns with their financial and career goals. By utilizing vesting periods, this plan fosters employee retention and incentivizes long-term commitment to Banker's Note, Inc.