Form 4: Microsoft Director Charles Scharf Reports Stock Award and Updates Power of Attorney

Microsoft director Charles Scharf received a stock award and updated his power of attorney for SEC filings.

Summary

• Charles Scharf, a director at Microsoft, reported a stock award of 151 shares of common stock on January 31, 2025.
• The stock award was granted at a price of $0 and is fully vested on the date of grant.
• Scharf also reported that he indirectly owns 525 shares of Microsoft common stock through a trust.
• Additionally, Scharf revoked his previous power of attorney and granted new power of attorney to Julia Stark, Benjamin O. Orndorff, Michael Pressman, Keith R. Dolliver, and Christyne Mayberry, effective September 16, 2024.
• This power of attorney authorizes these individuals to execute and file Form 4 and Form 5 filings on Scharf's behalf for Microsoft securities transactions.

Sentiment

Score: 7

Explanation: The document reflects standard corporate governance and compensation practices, indicating a neutral to slightly positive sentiment due to the alignment of director interests with shareholders.

Positives

• The stock award increases Scharf's direct holdings in Microsoft, aligning his interests with shareholders.
• The updated power of attorney ensures smooth and timely filing of SEC forms.

Future Outlook

The updated power of attorney will facilitate future SEC filings related to Charles Scharf's Microsoft holdings.

Industry Context

This is a routine filing related to director compensation and administrative updates, common among publicly traded companies.

Comparison to Industry Standards

• Stock awards are a common form of compensation for directors in publicly traded companies like Microsoft.
• The use of a power of attorney for SEC filings is a standard practice to ensure compliance and efficiency.
• Companies like Apple, Google, and Amazon also regularly report similar transactions by their directors and officers.

Corporate Governance

Stakeholder Impact

• The stock award aligns the director's interests with those of shareholders.
• The updated power of attorney ensures compliance with SEC regulations.

Key Dates

Keywords

Microsoft, Charles Scharf, stock award, Form 4, power of attorney, SEC filings, beneficial ownership, director