Form 4: Associated Banc-Corp Executive Vice President Matthew R. Braeger Reports Stock Transactions

Executive Vice President of Associated Banc-Corp, Matthew R. Braeger, reports the acquisition of restricted stock units and a disposition of shares through a 401(k) plan.

Summary

• Matthew R. Braeger, an Executive Vice President at Associated Banc-Corp, reported transactions involving the company's stock.
• On January 29, 2025, Mr. Braeger acquired 1,588 shares of common stock as Time-Based Restricted Stock Units (TRSUs).
• These TRSUs will vest in four equal annual installments starting on February 8, 2026.
• Mr. Braeger also disposed of 752.55 shares of common stock held indirectly through a 401(k) plan.
• Following these transactions, Mr. Braeger directly owns 14,527.0966 shares and indirectly owns shares through the 401(k) plan.

Sentiment

Score: 7

Explanation: The document reflects standard executive compensation practices and routine stock transactions, which are generally viewed neutrally to positively by investors. The grant of restricted stock units is a positive sign of alignment with long-term company performance.

Positives

• The grant of restricted stock units to Mr. Braeger aligns his interests with the long-term performance of the company.
• The vesting schedule of the restricted stock units encourages continued service and contribution to the company.

Negatives

• The disposition of shares through the 401(k) plan could be seen as a slight reduction in Mr. Braeger's overall stake in the company, although this is a common transaction.

Risks

• The value of the restricted stock units is subject to the market price of Associated Banc-Corp's stock, which can fluctuate.
• The vesting of the restricted stock units is contingent on Mr. Braeger's continued employment with the company.

Future Outlook

The restricted stock units will vest over the next four years, aligning the executive's interests with the company's long-term performance.

Management Comments

• The document is a regulatory filing and does not contain direct quotes from management.

Industry Context

This filing is a routine disclosure of stock transactions by a company executive, which is common in the financial services industry. It provides transparency into the ownership structure and executive compensation practices of Associated Banc-Corp.

Comparison to Industry Standards

• The granting of restricted stock units is a common practice for executive compensation in the financial industry, aligning executive interests with shareholder value.
• The vesting schedule of four years is also typical for such grants, encouraging long-term commitment from the executive.
• The disclosure of transactions through a Form 4 is a standard regulatory requirement for publicly traded companies in the United States, ensuring transparency and preventing insider trading.

Stakeholder Impact

• The stock transactions may have a minor impact on shareholders, as they reflect changes in executive ownership.
• The vesting of restricted stock units incentivizes the executive to contribute to the company's long-term success, which benefits all stakeholders.

Next Steps

• The restricted stock units will vest in four equal annual installments beginning on February 8, 2026.

Key Dates

Keywords

insider trading, Form 4, restricted stock units, stock transaction, executive compensation, beneficial ownership, Associated Banc-Corp, ASB