Form 4: Scotts Miracle-Gro CEO Acquires Phantom Stock

Scotts Miracle-Gro's Chairman and CEO, James Hagedorn, reported the acquisition of 1,194.235 phantom stock units.

Summary

• James Hagedorn, Chairman and CEO of Scotts Miracle-Gro Co. (SMG), acquired 1,194.235 phantom stock units.
• The transaction occurred on February 26, 2026, with a derivative security price of $69.78 per unit.
• Each phantom stock unit represents the right to receive one common share of the Issuer or its equivalent cash value.
• Phantom stock is payable in cash upon termination of the reporting person's employment.
• Hagedorn's total beneficial ownership of derivative securities following this transaction is 234,996.506 phantom stock units.
• The reporting person also holds positions as a Director and 10% Owner of the company.

Sentiment

Score: 6

Explanation: StockSavvy.ai views this as a neutral to slightly positive event. While it's an acquisition by a key insider, the nature of phantom stock and the relatively small amount suggest it's likely part of a routine compensation package rather than a significant market-moving investment decision.

Positives

• The acquisition of phantom stock by the Chairman and CEO can signal continued confidence in the company's future performance, even if part of a compensation plan.

Future Outlook

The filing does not contain any forward-looking statements or guidance.

Industry Context

StockSavvy.ai notes that insider transactions, such as the acquisition of phantom stock by a CEO, are routinely disclosed and can provide a glimpse into management's alignment with shareholder interests. While this specific transaction is relatively small in the context of total holdings, it reflects ongoing participation in the company's equity incentive structure.

Related Party Transactions

• James Hagedorn, as Chairman & CEO, Director, and 10% Owner, acquired 1,194.235 phantom stock units from Scotts Miracle-Gro Co., which constitutes a related party transaction.

Stakeholder Impact

• Shareholders may view the CEO's acquisition of phantom stock as a positive signal of management's continued commitment and alignment with the company's long-term success.

Key Dates

Keywords

Scotts Miracle-Gro, SMG, James Hagedorn, Phantom Stock, Insider Transaction, SEC Form 4, Beneficial Ownership, CEO, Director, 10% Owner