Form 4: Nicolet Bankshares Director Donald J. Long Jr. Acquires Shares as Part of Board Retainer

Director Donald J. Long Jr. acquired 626 shares of Nicolet Bankshares Inc. as part of his annual board retainer.

Summary

• On May 28, 2024, Donald J. Long Jr., 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, Long directly owns 80,280 shares and indirectly owns 4,920 shares through the Nicolet National Bank Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-employee Directors.

Sentiment

Score: 7

Explanation: The sentiment is neutral to positive. It reflects a routine transaction indicating alignment of director interests with shareholders through equity ownership.

Positives

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

Industry Context

This type of stock grant as part of board compensation is a common practice in the banking industry to align the interests of directors with those of shareholders.

Comparison to Industry Standards

• Director compensation packages vary across the banking industry, but equity-based compensation is a common component.
• Comparing Nicolet Bankshares' director compensation structure to peers like Associated Banc-Corp or Green Bay-based Baylake Corp (if it still existed independently) would provide a better understanding of its relative competitiveness.

Stakeholder Impact

• The transaction has a minor positive impact on shareholders by aligning the director's interests with theirs.

Key Dates