Form 4: Scotts Miracle-Gro CEO Boosts Stake, Receives Options

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

Summary

• James Hagedorn, Chairman & CEO and a 10% owner of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company (SMG), reported transactions on January 30, 2026.
• Hagedorn acquired 38.513 common shares at a price of $51.93 per share.
• Following this acquisition, his direct beneficial ownership of common shares is 104,112.9728.
• He also holds 31,533.64 common shares indirectly through a 401(K) Plan.
• Additionally, Hagedorn holds 997,910 common shares indirectly through Hagedorn Partnership, L.P. (HPLP), where he is a general partner.
• Hagedorn was granted 142,315 stock options (right to buy) with an exercise price of $64.22 per share.
• These stock options become exercisable on January 30, 2029, and expire on January 30, 2036.
• The derivative securities (stock options) were acquired at a price of $0, indicating a grant.
• Following the transaction, Hagedorn directly beneficially owns 142,315 derivative securities.

Sentiment

Score: 8

Explanation: StockSavvy.ai views this as a positive signal, as the CEO's acquisition of shares and grant of options indicates strong confidence in the company's future and aligns executive interests with shareholder value creation.

Positives

• The Chairman & CEO's acquisition of additional common shares at market price demonstrates confidence in the company's future performance.
• The grant of 142,315 stock options aligns management's incentives with shareholder interests, encouraging long-term value creation.

Future Outlook

N/A

Industry Context

StockSavvy.ai notes that insider transactions, particularly by top executives like the Chairman & CEO, are often closely watched by investors as they can signal management's perception of the company's intrinsic value and future prospects. This transaction is specific to Scotts Miracle-Gro and does not directly reflect broader industry trends.

Stakeholder Impact

• Shareholders may view the CEO's increased stake and option grant as a positive indicator of management's commitment and belief in the company's long-term success, potentially boosting investor confidence.

Key Dates

Recommendation

The acquisition of common shares by the Chairman & CEO, coupled with a significant stock option grant, signals strong insider confidence in the company's future performance and aligns management's interests with long-term shareholder value. This insider buying activity often precedes positive company developments, making it a compelling 'buy' signal for seasoned investors.

Keywords

Scotts Miracle-Gro, SMG, James Hagedorn, Insider Transaction, Form 4, Stock Options, Beneficial Ownership, Equity Acquisition, CEO