Form 4: FS Bancorp Executive Kelli Nielsen Reports Stock Purchase

Kelli Nielsen, Chief Retail Banking EVP at FS Bancorp, reports purchasing 19 shares of common stock under the company's Nonqualified 2022 Stock Purchase Plan.

Summary

• On May 6, 2025, Kelli Nielsen, the Chief Retail Banking EVP of FS Bancorp, Inc., purchased 19 shares of common stock at a price of $39.63 per share.
• The purchase was made under the Issuer's Nonqualified 2022 Stock Purchase Plan, which includes a 25% match.
• Following the transaction, Nielsen directly owns 14,884 shares of common stock and indirectly owns 2,681 shares through an ESOP.

Sentiment

Score: 7

Explanation: The sentiment is neutral to slightly positive. The executive's stock purchase suggests confidence in the company, but it's a routine transaction.

Positives

• Executive participation in the company's stock purchase plan signals confidence in the company's future.

Industry Context

Executive stock purchases are common and often viewed positively, indicating alignment between management and shareholder interests. The 25% match provided by the Nonqualified 2022 Stock Purchase Plan is a typical incentive to encourage employee stock ownership.

Comparison to Industry Standards

• Executive stock ownership is a common practice across the financial services industry.
• Comparing Nielsen's holdings and recent transactions to those of executives at similar-sized regional banks like Columbia Banking System or HomeStreet Bank could provide further context.
• Employee stock purchase plans with company matching contributions are also standard, with match rates typically ranging from 15% to 25%.

Stakeholder Impact

• The stock purchase could have a minor positive impact on shareholder sentiment.

Key Dates

Keywords

FS Bancorp, Kelli Nielsen, stock purchase, Form 4, Nonqualified 2022 Stock Purchase Plan, ESOP, executive, ownership