Form 4: Kroger Director Anne Gates Reports Acquisition of Phantom Stock

Kroger director Anne Gates acquired 110.281 phantom shares through dividend reinvestment in a deferred compensation plan.

Summary

• Anne Gates, a director at Kroger Co., reported a transaction involving phantom stock.
• The transaction occurred on December 2, 2024.
• Ms. Gates acquired 110.281 phantom shares through dividend reinvestment.
• These phantom shares are part of a deferred compensation plan.
• Each phantom share represents the right to receive one common share upon distribution.
• The price of the phantom stock was $60.15 per share.
• Ms. Gates now holds 20,839.655 phantom shares directly.
• The phantom shares will be distributed after Ms. Gates terminates her service as an Independent Director.

Sentiment

Score: 7

Explanation: The document reflects a routine transaction related to director compensation, which is generally neutral to positive. The acquisition of phantom stock through dividend reinvestment suggests a continued investment in the company by a director.

Positives

• The acquisition of phantom stock through dividend reinvestment indicates a continued investment in the company by a director.
• The deferred compensation plan aligns the director's interests with the long-term performance of the company.

Future Outlook

The phantom shares will be distributed to Ms. Gates following the termination of her service as an Independent Director of The Kroger Co.

Industry Context

This is a routine filing related to insider transactions and is common for directors of publicly traded companies. It reflects standard compensation practices.

Comparison to Industry Standards

• The use of phantom stock as part of a deferred compensation plan is a common practice among large publicly traded companies, including those in the retail sector.
• Many companies use similar plans to align the interests of directors with the long-term performance of the company.
• The specific terms of the plan, such as the vesting schedule and distribution terms, are typical for these types of arrangements.

Stakeholder Impact

• The transaction has a minor positive impact on shareholders as it indicates continued investment in the company by a director.
• The deferred compensation plan aligns the director's interests with the long-term performance of the company, which is beneficial for shareholders.

Key Dates

Keywords

phantom stock, Kroger, director, deferred compensation, dividend reinvestment, insider trading, Form 4