A Houston Texas Stock Option Agreement between Northern Bank of Commerce and Cowling Ban corporation is a legally binding contract that outlines the terms and conditions surrounding stock options granted by Northern Bank to employees of Cowling Ban corporation in Houston, Texas. This agreement is designed to provide Cowling Ban corporation employees with the opportunity to purchase a specified number of shares of Northern Bank's common stock at a predetermined price within a defined timeframe. These stock options are typically granted as part of an employee compensation or incentive program, allowing participants to potentially benefit from the future growth of Northern Bank's stock value. The agreement includes various provisions, such as the grant date of the stock options, the exercise price (also referred to as the strike price) at which employees can purchase the stock, and the vesting schedule which determines when the options become exercisable. It will also outline any restrictions or limitations on the exercise of the stock options, such as requiring employees to be employed by Cowling Ban corporation for a specific period of time before becoming eligible to exercise their options. Additionally, the agreement may include provisions related to the expiration date of the stock options, outlining the timeframe within which employees must exercise their options before they expire and become worthless. This expiration date is typically several years from the grant date. It is important to note that there may be different types of Houston Texas Stock Option Agreements between Northern Bank of Commerce and Cowling Ban corporation, each with unique terms and conditions. Some common variations include: 1. Non-Qualified Stock Options (SOS): These are stock options that do not meet the specific requirements of the Internal Revenue Code to qualify for favorable tax treatment. SOS may be granted to employees at any level within Cowling Ban corporation and provide more flexibility in terms of exercise and taxation. 2. Incentive Stock Options (SOS): These stock options meet the strict criteria set by the Internal Revenue Code and may provide certain tax advantages to employees. SOS are typically granted to key employees and are subject to additional restrictions, such as holding periods and limitations on the number of shares that can be granted. 3. Restricted Stock Units (RSS): While not technically stock options, RSS are another form of equity compensation often used in conjunction with stock option plans. RSS represents a promise to deliver a certain number of shares of stock at a future date, subject to certain vesting conditions. In summary, a Houston Texas Stock Option Agreement between Northern Bank of Commerce and Cowling Ban corporation is an essential contract that formalizes the granting of stock options to Cowling Ban corporation employees. The agreement outlines the terms, conditions, and limitations associated with exercising these options, ensuring clarity and fairness for both parties involved.