The Tennessee Stock Option Plan of National Penn Ranchers, Inc. is a comprehensive program designed to offer employees of the company the opportunity to acquire stock options as a form of compensation. This plan aims to align employee interests with the company's overall performance and create a sense of ownership among the workforce. Under this plan, employees are granted the right to purchase a specific number of shares of National Penn Ranchers, Inc. stock at a predetermined price, known as the exercise price. These options typically vest over a period of time, incentivizing employees to stay with the company and contribute to its long-term success. There are several types of Tennessee Stock Option Plans available within National Penn Ranchers, Inc., each serving different purposes. These types may include: 1. Incentive Stock Options (SOS): SOS are typically offered to key employees and provide certain tax advantages. These options must meet specific criteria outlined by the Internal Revenue Code, such as requiring a minimum holding period before the shares can be sold without incurring additional taxes. 2. Non-Qualified Stock Options (Nests): Nests are more flexible than SOS and can be offered to employees at all levels within the company. Unlike SOS, Nests do not have to adhere to the same strict tax rules, allowing for greater versatility in their design and implementation. 3. Restricted Stock Units (RSS): RSS are another type of equity-based compensation offered by National Penn Ranchers, Inc. Under this arrangement, employees are granted units that represent the right to receive shares of company stock at a future date. RSS often have vesting schedules and may be subject to certain performance criteria or time-based conditions. 4. Stock Appreciation Rights (SARS): SARS provide employees with the opportunity to receive cash or stock equal to the appreciation in National Penn Ranchers, Inc. stock price from the date of grant to the exercise date. SARS do not require employees to purchase shares, making them an attractive alternative for those who may prefer cash compensation. Overall, the Tennessee Stock Option Plan of National Penn Ranchers, Inc. aims to motivate and reward employees through various types of stock-based compensation arrangements. These plans provide employees with tangible incentives to contribute to the growth and success of the company while aligning their interests with shareholders.