Form 4: CRISPR Therapeutics AG: Chief Operating Officer Julianne Bruno Reports Stock Option and Restricted Stock Unit Grants

Julianne Bruno, Chief Operating Officer of CRISPR Therapeutics AG, reports the acquisition of stock options and restricted stock units.

Summary

• On March 14, 2025, Julianne Bruno, the Chief Operating Officer of CRISPR Therapeutics AG, was granted stock options for 36,666 common shares at an exercise price of $42.12.
• These options vest in 48 equal monthly installments starting April 14, 2025, and expire on March 14, 2035.
• Additionally, Bruno received 27,500 restricted stock units (RSUs), each representing one common share.
• These RSUs vest in four equal installments on March 14 of 2026, 2027, 2028, and 2029.
• Following these transactions, Bruno directly owns 36,666 stock options and 27,500 restricted stock units.

Sentiment

Score: 7

Explanation: The sentiment is neutral to positive. The granting of equity-based compensation is a standard practice and generally viewed favorably as it aligns management's interests with shareholders.

Positives

• The grant of stock options and restricted stock units to the COO aligns her interests with those of the shareholders.
• The vesting schedules for both the options and RSUs encourage long-term commitment and performance.

Future Outlook

The document does not contain specific forward-looking statements, but the vesting schedules suggest a continued role for the COO in the company's future.

Industry Context

Stock option and RSU grants are common practices in the biotechnology industry to incentivize and retain key executives, aligning their interests with the long-term success of the company.

Comparison to Industry Standards

• Stock option grants are a standard component of executive compensation packages in the biotech industry, often benchmarked against peer companies like Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Intellia Therapeutics, and Beam Therapeutics.
• The vesting schedules described are typical, with monthly vesting for options and quarterly or annual vesting for RSUs being common practices.
• The size of the grant is likely determined by a compensation committee, considering factors such as the executive's role, performance, and industry standards.

Stakeholder Impact

• Shareholders: The grants align management's interests with shareholder value creation.
• Employees: The grants may have a positive impact on employee morale as they demonstrate the company's commitment to its leadership team.

Key Dates