Form 4: Nicolet Bankshares Director Acquires Shares as Part of Board Retainer

Susan L. Merkatoris, a director of Nicolet Bankshares, acquired 626 shares of common stock as part of her annual board retainer.

Summary

• On May 28, 2024, Susan L. Merkatoris, a director of Nicolet Bankshares Inc., acquired 626 shares of common stock.
• The acquisition was part of the Board's annual retainer, granted as a restricted stock award with immediate full vesting.
• The price per share was $79.83.
• Following the transaction, Ms. Merkatoris directly owns 92,224 shares of Nicolet Bankshares Inc.

Sentiment

Score: 7

Explanation: Routine director stock acquisition, indicating confidence. No negative implications.

Positives

• The acquisition of shares by a director demonstrates confidence in the company.

Industry Context

Director stock ownership is common in the banking industry to align management and shareholder interests.

Comparison to Industry Standards

• Director compensation packages often include stock awards to incentivize performance and align interests with shareholders, similar to practices at other regional banks like Associated Banc-Corp and Green Bay-based Baylake Corp (now part of Nicolet).

Related Party Transactions

• The stock grant to Ms. Merkatoris is a related party transaction as she is a director of the company.

Stakeholder Impact

• The transaction has a minor positive impact on shareholders as it aligns the director's interests with theirs.

Key Dates