Form 4: Verizon Executive Sowmyanarayan Sampath Reports Phantom Stock Acquisition

EVP and Group CEO of Verizon Consumer, Sowmyanarayan Sampath, reports acquisition of phantom stock units through a deferred compensation plan.

Summary

• Sowmyanarayan Sampath, EVP and Group CEO-VZ Consumer at Verizon Communications Inc., filed a Form 4.
• The filing reports the acquisition of 157.718 units of phantom stock on July 2, 2025, at a price of $12.44 per unit.
• Following the transaction, Sampath beneficially owns 128,189.506 units of phantom stock through a deferred compensation plan, including phantom stock acquired through dividend reinvestment.
• Each share of phantom stock is the economic equivalent of a portion of one share of common stock and is settled in cash, payable upon events established by the reporting person in accordance with the deferred compensation plan.

Sentiment

Score: 5

Explanation: Neutral sentiment as the document is a regulatory filing detailing a transaction.

Positives

• Acquisition of phantom stock indicates continued alignment of executive compensation with company performance.
• Participation in the deferred compensation plan allows for tax-advantaged savings and investment.

Future Outlook

The phantom stock becomes payable upon events established by the reporting person in accordance with the deferred compensation plan.

Industry Context

Executive compensation packages often include phantom stock or similar instruments to align executive interests with shareholder value and long-term company performance.

Comparison to Industry Standards

• Phantom stock is a common component of executive compensation in publicly traded companies, particularly in large corporations like Verizon.
• Companies like AT&T, Comcast, and T-Mobile also utilize various forms of equity-based compensation for their executives.
• The specific terms and conditions of phantom stock plans can vary widely across companies, depending on factors such as company size, industry, and executive performance goals.

Stakeholder Impact

• Shareholders: The acquisition of phantom stock aligns executive interests with shareholder value.
• Employees: Executive compensation practices can influence overall employee morale and perceptions of fairness.

Key Dates

Keywords

Form 4, Verizon, Phantom Stock, Executive Compensation, Deferred Compensation, Insider Trading