Form 4: ASB Executive Acquires Restricted Stock Grant

Associated Banc-Corp Executive Vice President John A. Utz acquired 4,494 shares of time-based restricted stock at $27.26 per share, vesting annually starting February 2027.

Summary

• John A. Utz, Executive Vice President of Associated Banc-Corp (ASB), acquired 4,494 shares of common stock.
• The acquisition occurred on February 1, 2026, at a price of $27.26 per share.
• These shares represent Time-Based Restricted Stock Units (TRSUs) granted in 2026.
• The TRSUs will vest in four equal annual installments, with the first vesting date on February 8, 2027.
• Following this transaction, John A. Utz beneficially owns 114,898.6135 shares directly and 15,624.53 shares indirectly through a 401(k) Plan.

Sentiment

Score: 7

Explanation: StockSavvy.ai views this as a moderately positive development, reflecting management's continued commitment to the company through long-term incentive compensation, which aligns executive and shareholder interests.

Positives

• The acquisition of restricted stock by an executive aligns management's interests with long-term shareholder value.
• The vesting schedule incentivizes the executive's continued service and performance over several years.

Negatives

• The shares are restricted and not immediately liquid, as they vest over a multi-year period.

Risks

• The value of the restricted stock is subject to the future market price of Associated Banc-Corp's common stock.
• Vesting is contingent upon continued employment, posing a risk of forfeiture if employment ceases before vesting.

Future Outlook

The restricted stock grant is structured to vest in four equal annual installments beginning in February 2027, indicating a long-term incentive for the executive's continued contribution to the company.

Industry Context

StockSavvy.ai notes that restricted stock grants are a common executive compensation tool in the banking sector, aligning executive interests with long-term shareholder value and promoting retention within a competitive financial services landscape.

Comparison to Industry Standards

• StockSavvy.ai observes that time-based restricted stock units are a standard component of executive compensation packages across the financial services industry.
• This practice is comparable to those at regional banks like Zions Bancorporation or Comerica Inc., aiming to incentivize long-term performance and executive retention.

Stakeholder Impact

• Shareholders: Positive impact due to increased alignment of executive interests with long-term company performance and shareholder value.
• Employees: No direct impact mentioned, but executive compensation practices can influence overall company culture and morale.

Next Steps

• The restricted stock units will begin vesting in four equal annual installments starting on February 8, 2027.

Key Dates

Recommendation

This Form 4 filing details a routine executive compensation event (restricted stock grant) and does not present new information that would fundamentally alter the company's financial outlook or strategic direction. While positive for management alignment, it is not a catalyst for a significant change in investment recommendation.

Keywords

Associated Banc-Corp, ASB, John A. Utz, Restricted Stock, TRSU, Executive Compensation, Insider Trading, Form 4, Stock Grant, Beneficial Ownership