Form 4: Scotts Miracle-Gro CEO Boosts Stake in Company

Scotts Miracle-Gro Chairman & CEO James Hagedorn acquired additional common shares and phantom stock, increasing his beneficial ownership.

Summary

• James Hagedorn, Chairman & CEO, Director, and 10% Owner of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company (SMG), reported recent transactions.
• On September 5, 2025, Hagedorn acquired 103.6034 common shares at a price of $62.5085 per share.
• On September 26, 2025, Hagedorn acquired 1,611.159 shares of phantom stock at a price of $56.07 per share.
• Following these transactions, Hagedorn's direct beneficial ownership of common shares is 79,870.5183.
• Indirect beneficial ownership includes 29,413.378 common shares through a 401(K) Plan and 997,910 common shares through Hagedorn Partnership, L.P. (HPLP).
• Direct beneficial ownership of phantom stock stands at 225,885.122 shares.
• Each phantom stock share represents the right to receive one common share or its cash value, payable upon termination of employment, and is transferable into an alternative investment.

Sentiment

Score: 8

Explanation: The acquisition of additional common shares and phantom stock by the Chairman & CEO indicates strong insider confidence in the company's valuation and future prospects, which is generally viewed positively by the market.

Positives

• The Chairman & CEO's acquisition of additional common shares and phantom stock signals strong confidence in the company's future prospects.
• Increased insider ownership aligns management's interests more closely with those of shareholders.

Future Outlook

Phantom stock shares are payable in cash or common shares following the reporting person's termination of employment and can be transferred into an alternative investment at any time.

Industry Context

This insider transaction report does not provide specific industry context, but increased insider buying can be a positive signal within any industry, suggesting management's belief in the company's future performance relative to its peers.

Related Party Transactions

• James Hagedorn is deemed a beneficial owner of 997,910 common shares held by Hagedorn Partnership, L.P. (HPLP), a Delaware limited partnership in which he is a general partner. This includes his proportionate interest and that of family members in whose holdings he may be deemed to have a pecuniary interest.

Stakeholder Impact

• Shareholders may view the increased insider ownership as a positive indicator of management's belief in the company's long-term value and performance.
• Employees may perceive this as a sign of stability and confidence from top leadership.

Key Dates

Recommendation

The Chairman & CEO's decision to acquire additional common shares and phantom stock is a strong signal of confidence in The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company's future. Insider buying, particularly from top executives, often suggests that management believes the stock is undervalued or expects significant positive developments. This action aligns management's interests with shareholders and can be a catalyst for positive investor sentiment, warranting a 'buy' recommendation for investors looking for companies with strong insider conviction.

Keywords

Scotts Miracle-Gro, SMG, James Hagedorn, Insider Trading, Form 4, Stock Acquisition, Phantom Stock, Beneficial Ownership