Form 4: ASB Executive Sells Shares for Tax Obligations

Associated Banc-Corp Executive Vice President Nicole M. Kitowski sold 1,827 shares of common stock to cover tax withholding from vested restricted stock.

Summary

• Nicole M. Kitowski, Executive Vice President of Associated Banc-Corp (ASB), disposed of 1,827 shares of common stock.
• The transaction occurred on February 8, 2026, at a price of $29.37 per share.
• The shares were surrendered to satisfy tax withholding obligations arising from the vesting of time-based restricted stock granted in 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025.
• Following the transaction, Ms. Kitowski directly beneficially owns 46,745.1011 shares and indirectly owns 3,216.87 shares through a 401(k) Plan.

Sentiment

Score: 5

Explanation: StockSavvy.ai views this as a neutral event, representing a routine, non-discretionary transaction to satisfy tax obligations upon the vesting of previously granted restricted stock, rather than a discretionary sale indicating a change in executive sentiment towards the company.

Positives

• The transaction indicates the vesting of previously granted restricted stock, which is a form of equity compensation for the executive.

Negatives

• A reduction in direct beneficial ownership of 1,827 shares, although for a non-discretionary tax purpose.

Risks

• No specific risks are mentioned in this Form 4 filing.

Future Outlook

No forward-looking statements or guidance are provided in this Form 4 filing.

Industry Context

StockSavvy.ai notes that tax-related sales of vested restricted stock are a common and routine occurrence for executives receiving equity compensation across various industries, reflecting standard compensation practices rather than a specific industry trend.

Comparison to Industry Standards

• Tax withholding upon the vesting of restricted stock is a standard practice for equity compensation plans across publicly traded companies, including financial institutions like Associated Banc-Corp. This transaction aligns with typical executive compensation structures and tax compliance requirements, similar to practices observed at peers such as Zions Bancorporation (ZION) or Comerica Incorporated (CMA).

Stakeholder Impact

• Shareholders: Minimal impact as this is a routine, non-discretionary transaction for tax purposes and does not reflect a change in the executive's long-term investment thesis.
• Employees: No direct impact on general employees.

Next Steps

• No specific future actions, events, or milestones are mentioned in this Form 4 filing.

Key Dates

Keywords

Associated Banc-Corp, ASB, Nicole M. Kitowski, Form 4, insider transaction, stock sale, tax withholding, restricted stock, executive compensation, beneficial ownership