Form 4: Merck & Co. Director Mary Ellen Coe Reports Phantom Stock Acquisition

Director Mary Ellen Coe reports acquisition of phantom stock units convertible to common stock in a recent transaction.

Summary

• On March 28, 2024, Mary Ellen Coe, a director of Merck & Co., Inc., reported the acquisition of phantom stock units.
• These phantom stock units are convertible to common stock on a 1-for-1 basis.
• The transaction involved the acquisition of 227.3588 phantom stock units at a price of $131.95.
• Following the reported transaction, Ms. Coe beneficially owns 21,049.6628 derivative securities.
• The phantom stock units are to be settled 100% in cash upon the reporting person's termination of service, according to a distribution schedule elected pursuant to the terms of the Plan for Deferred Payment of Directors' Compensation.
• Holdings include shares acquired in dividend reinvestment transactions.

Sentiment

Score: 5

Explanation: This is a neutral report on a director's stock transaction, with no inherent positive or negative implications for the company's performance.

Future Outlook

The phantom stock units will be settled 100% in cash upon the reporting person's termination of service, according to a distribution schedule elected pursuant to the terms of the Plan for Deferred Payment of Directors' Compensation.

Industry Context

This filing is a routine disclosure of a director's holdings and transactions in company stock, which is standard practice for publicly traded companies.

Stakeholder Impact

• The transaction has a minimal direct impact on stakeholders, as it primarily reflects changes in the director's compensation and holdings.

Key Dates