Form 4: Danaher Corp Executive Bouda Reports Acquisition of Notional Shares in Deferred Compensation Program

Christopher Bouda, VP and Chief Accounting Officer of Danaher Corp, reports the acquisition of 171 notional shares of Danaher common stock through the company's deferred compensation program.

Summary

• Christopher Bouda, a VP and Chief Accounting Officer at Danaher Corp, filed a Form 4.
• The filing reports a transaction on February 1, 2025, where Bouda acquired 171 notional shares of Danaher common stock through the company's deferred compensation program.
• These shares are unfunded and notional, representing the company's annual contribution to Bouda's account.
• The price per share used to determine the number of notional shares was $222.74, the closing price of Danaher common stock on the NYSE on the transaction date.
• Following the reported transaction, Bouda beneficially owns 2,630.099 notional shares in the Danaher Stock Fund.
• The notional shares convert on a one-for-one basis to common stock.
• The vesting terms and distribution of amounts are based on the provisions of Danaher's deferred compensation plans, as detailed in the company's proxy statement.

Sentiment

Score: 7

Explanation: The document reflects a routine executive compensation transaction, indicating stability and adherence to established compensation plans. It's a neutral event with a slightly positive undertone due to the continued investment in executive talent.

Positives

• The acquisition of notional shares reflects Danaher's ongoing commitment to its deferred compensation program for executives.
• The deferred compensation program allows executives to accumulate company stock, aligning their interests with those of shareholders.

Future Outlook

The vesting terms and manner of distribution are based upon the provisions of the respective plan, which provisions are summarized in the latest Danaher Corporation annual meeting proxy statement on Schedule 14A as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Industry Context

Executive compensation, including deferred compensation programs, is a common practice among publicly traded companies to incentivize and retain key personnel. These programs often involve granting stock or stock-based awards to align executive interests with shareholder value.

Comparison to Industry Standards

• Deferred compensation programs are a standard component of executive compensation packages in large, publicly traded companies like Danaher.
• Companies such as Siemens, Roche, and Abbott Laboratories, which are comparable to Danaher in terms of size and industry, also offer deferred compensation plans to their executives.
• The specific terms of these plans, such as vesting schedules and contribution amounts, can vary widely based on company performance and individual executive agreements.

Stakeholder Impact

• The transaction has a minimal direct impact on shareholders, as it involves notional shares within a deferred compensation program.
• Employees may view the deferred compensation program as a positive benefit, potentially improving morale and retention.

Key Dates