EPICOR SOFTWARE CORPORATION 2007 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN
Exhibit 10.1
EPICOR SOFTWARE CORPORATION
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page | ||||
SECTION 1 BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE |
1 | |||
1.1 |
Background and Effective Date |
1 | ||
1.2 |
Purpose of the Plan |
1 | ||
SECTION 2 DEFINITIONS |
1 | |||
2.1 |
“1934 Act” |
1 | ||
2.2 |
“Administrator” |
1 | ||
2.3 |
“Applicable Laws” |
1 | ||
2.4 |
“Award” |
1 | ||
2.5 |
“Award Agreement” |
1 | ||
2.6 |
“Board” or “Board of Directors” |
1 | ||
2.7 |
“Change of Control” |
1 | ||
2.8 |
“Code” |
2 | ||
2.9 |
“Committee” |
2 | ||
2.10 |
“Common Stock” |
2 | ||
2.11 |
“Company” |
2 | ||
2.12 |
“Consultant” |
2 | ||
2.13 |
“Director” |
2 | ||
2.14 |
“Disability” |
2 | ||
2.15 |
“EBITDA” |
2 | ||
2.16 |
“Employee” |
2 | ||
2.17 |
“Exchange Program” |
2 | ||
2.18 |
“Exercise Price” |
2 | ||
2.19 |
“Fair Market Value” |
2 | ||
2.20 |
“Fiscal Year” |
3 | ||
2.21 |
“Free Cash Flow” |
3 | ||
2.22 |
“Grant Date” |
3 | ||
2.23 |
“Incentive Stock Option” |
3 | ||
2.24 |
“Nonqualified Stock Option” |
3 | ||
2.25 |
“Option” |
3 | ||
2.26 |
“Participant” |
3 | ||
2.27 |
“Performance Goals” |
3 | ||
2.28 |
“Performance Period” |
3 | ||
2.29 |
“Performance Share” |
3 | ||
2.30 |
“Performance Unit” |
3 | ||
2.31 |
“Period of Restriction” |
3 | ||
2.32 |
“Plan” |
3 | ||
2.33 |
“Profit After Tax” |
3 | ||
2.34 |
“Restricted Stock” |
4 | ||
2.35 |
“Return on Equity” |
4 | ||
2.36 |
“Revenue” |
4 | ||
2.37 |
“Rule 16b-3” |
4 | ||
2.38 |
“Section 16 Person” |
4 | ||
2.39 |
“Service Provider”. |
4 | ||
2.40 |
“Shares” |
4 | ||
2.41 |
“Stock Appreciation Right” or “SAR” |
4 | ||
2.42 |
“Subsidiary” |
4 | ||
2.43 |
“Termination of Service” |
4 | ||
2.44 |
“Total Shareholder Return” |
4 |
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
(continued)
Page | ||||
SECTION 3 ADMINISTRATION |
4 | |||
3.1 |
Procedure |
4 | ||
3.2 |
Powers of the Administrator |
5 | ||
3.3 |
Effect of Administrator’s Decision |
5 | ||
SECTION 4 SHARES SUBJECT TO THE PLAN |
5 | |||
4.1 |
Number of Shares |
5 | ||
4.2 |
Lapsed Awards |
6 | ||
4.3 |
Adjustments in Awards and Authorized Shares |
6 | ||
SECTION 5 STOCK OPTIONS |
6 | |||
5.1 |
Grant of Options |
6 | ||
5.2 |
Award Agreement |
7 | ||
5.3 |
Exercise Price |
7 | ||
5.4 |
Expiration of Options |
7 | ||
5.5 |
Exercisability of Options |
7 | ||
5.6 |
Exercise of Option |
7 | ||
5.7 |
Restrictions on Share Transferability |
9 | ||
5.8 |
Certain Additional Provisions for Incentive Stock Options |
9 | ||
SECTION 6 STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHTS |
9 | |||
6.1 |
Grant of SARs |
9 | ||
6.2 |
SAR Agreement |
10 | ||
6.3 |
Expiration of SARs |
10 | ||
6.4 |
Payment of SAR Amount |
10 | ||
SECTION 7 RESTRICTED STOCK |
10 | |||
7.1 |
Grant of Restricted Stock |
10 | ||
7.2 |
Restricted Stock Agreement |
10 | ||
7.3 |
Transferability |
10 | ||
7.4 |
Other Restrictions |
10 | ||
7.5 |
Removal of Restrictions |
11 | ||
7.6 |
Voting Rights |
11 | ||
7.7 |
Dividends and Other Distributions |
11 | ||
7.8 |
Return of Restricted Stock to Company |
11 | ||
SECTION 8 PERFORMANCE UNITS |
11 | |||
8.1 |
Grant of Performance Units |
11 | ||
8.2 |
Value of Performance Units |
11 | ||
8.3 |
Performance Objectives and Other Terms |
11 | ||
8.4 |
Earning of Performance Units |
12 | ||
8.5 |
Form and Timing of Payment of Performance Units |
12 | ||
8.6 |
Cancellation of Performance Units |
12 | ||
SECTION 9 PERFORMANCE SHARES |
12 | |||
9.1 |
Grant of Performance Shares |
12 | ||
9.2 |
Value of Performance Shares |
12 | ||
9.3 |
Performance Share Agreement |
12 |
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
(continued)
Page | ||||
9.4 |
Performance Objectives and Other Terms |
12 | ||
9.5 |
Earning of Performance Shares |
13 | ||
9.6 |
Form and Timing of Payment of Performance Shares |
13 | ||
9.7 |
Cancellation of Performance Shares |
13 | ||
SECTION 10 CHANGE OF CONTROL, DISSOLUTION AND LIQUIDATION |
13 | |||
10.1 |
Change of Control |
13 | ||
10.2 |
Dissolution or Liquidation |
13 | ||
SECTION 11 MISCELLANEOUS |
14 | |||
11.1 |
Deferrals |
14 | ||
11.2 |
No Effect on Employment or Service |
14 | ||
11.3 |
Participation |
14 | ||
11.4 |
Indemnification |
14 | ||
11.5 |
Successors |
14 | ||
11.6 |
Beneficiary Designations |
14 | ||
11.7 |
Limited Transferability of Awards |
14 | ||
11.8 |
No Rights as Stockholder |
14 | ||
SECTION 12 AMENDMENT, TERMINATION, AND DURATION |
15 | |||
12.1 |
Amendment, Suspension, or Termination |
15 | ||
12.2 |
Duration of the Plan |
15 | ||
SECTION 13 TAX WITHHOLDING |
15 | |||
13.1 |
Withholding Requirements |
15 | ||
13.2 |
Withholding Arrangements |
15 | ||
SECTION 14 LEGAL CONSTRUCTION |
15 | |||
14.1 |
Gender and Number |
15 | ||
14.2 |
Severability |
15 | ||
14.3 |
Requirements of Law |
15 | ||
14.4 |
Securities Law Compliance |
15 | ||
14.5 |
Governing Law |
16 | ||
14.6 |
Captions |
16 | ||
EXECUTION |
16 |
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EPICOR SOFTWARE CORPORATION
SECTION 1
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
1.1 Background and Effective Date. The Plan permits the grant of Nonqualified Stock Options, Incentive Stock Options, SARs, Restricted Stock, Performance Units, and Performance Shares. The Plan is effective as of March 30, 2007, upon approval by an affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the Shares that are present in person or by proxy and entitled to vote at the 2007 Annual Meeting of Stockholders of the Company.
1.2 Purpose of the Plan. The Plan is intended to attract, motivate, and retain (a) employees of the Company and its Subsidiaries, (b) consultants who provide significant services to the Company and its Subsidiaries, and (c) directors of the Company who are employees of neither the Company nor any Subsidiary. The Plan also is designed to encourage stock ownership by Participants, thereby aligning their interests with those of the Company’s shareholders and to permit the payment of compensation that qualifies as performance-based compensation under Section 162(m) of the Code.
SECTION 2
DEFINITIONS
The following words and phrases shall have the following meanings unless a different meaning is plainly required by the context:
2.1 “1934 Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Reference to a specific section of the 1934 Act or regulation thereunder shall include such section or regulation, any valid regulation promulgated under such section, and any comparable provision of any future legislation or regulation amending, supplementing or superseding such section or regulation.
2.2 “Administrator” means the Board or any of its Committees as shall be administering the Plan, in accordance with Section 4 of the Plan.
2.3 “Applicable Laws” means the requirements relating to the administration of stock option plans under U.S. state corporate laws, U.S. federal and state securities laws, the Code, any stock exchange or quotation system on which the Common Stock is listed or quoted and the applicable laws of any foreign country or jurisdiction where Awards are, or will be, granted under the Plan
2.4 “Award” means, individually or collectively, a grant under the Plan of Incentive Stock Options, Nonqualified Stock Options, SARs, Restricted Stock, Performance Units, or Performance Shares.
2.5 “Award Agreement” means the written agreement setting forth the terms and conditions applicable to each Award granted under the Plan.
2.6 “Board” or “Board of Directors” means the Board of Directors of the Company.
2.7 “Change of Control” means the occurrence of any of the following:
2.7.1 Any “person,” as such term is used in Section 13(d) and 14(d) of the Exchange Act (other than the Company, a Company subsidiary, or a Company employee benefit plan, including any trustee of such plan acting as trustee) is or becomes the “beneficial owner” (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company (or a successor to the Company) representing fifty percent (50%) or more of the combined voting power of the then outstanding securities of the Company or such successor; or
2.7.2 At least a majority of the directors of the Company constitute persons who were not at the time of their first election to the Board, candidates proposed by a majority of the Board of Directors in office prior to the time of such first election; or
1
2.7.3 A merger or consolidation in which the Company is not the surviving entity, except for a transaction, the principal purpose of which is to change the state in which the Company is incorporated; or
2.7.4 A sale, transfer or other disposition of assets involving fifty percent (50%) or more in value of the assets of the Company; or
2.7.5 The dissolution of the Company, or liquidation of more than fifty percent (50%) in value of the Company; or
2.7.6 Any reverse merger in which the Company is a surviving entity but in which securities possessing more than fifty percent (50%) of the total combined voting power of the Company’s outstanding securities are transferred to a person or persons different from the persons holding those securities immediately prior to such reverse merger.
2.8 “Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Reference to a specific section of the Code or regulation thereunder shall include such section or regulation, any valid regulation promulgated under such section, and any comparable provision of any future legislation or regulation amending, supplementing or superseding such section or regulation.
2.9 “Committee” means a committee of Directors appointed by the Board in accordance with Section 3.1 of the Plan to administer the Plan.
2.10 “Common Stock” means the common stock of the Company
2.11 “Company” means Epicor Software Corporation, a Delaware corporation, or any successor thereto.
2.12 “Consultant” means any consultant, independent contractor, or other person who provides significant services to the Company or its Subsidiaries, but who is neither an Employee nor a Director.
2.13 “Director” means any individual who is a member of the Board of Directors of the Company.
2.14 “Disability” means a permanent disability as defined in Section 22(e)(3) of the Code.
2.15 “EBITDA” means as to any Performance Period, the Company’s earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization.
2.16 “Employee” means any person employed by the Company or any Subsidiary, whether such employee is so employed at the time the Plan is adopted or becomes so employed subsequent to the adoption of the Plan. A person shall not cease to be an Employee in the case of (i) any leave of absence approved by the Company or (ii) transfers between locations of the Company or between the Company, any Subsidiary, or any successor. Neither service as a Director nor payment of a director’s fee by the Company shall be sufficient to constitute “employment” by the Company.
2.17 “Exchange Program” means a program established by the Administrator under which outstanding Awards are amended to provide for a lower Exercise Price or surrendered or cancelled in exchange for (a) Awards with a lower Exercise Price, (b) a different type of Award, (c) cash, or (d) a combination of (a), (b) and/or (c). Notwithstanding the preceding, the term Exchange Program does not include any (i) program under which an outstanding Award is surrendered or cancelled in exchange for a different type of Award and/or cash having a total value equal to or less than the value of the surrendered or cancelled Award, (ii) action described in Section 4.3, nor (iii) transfer or other disposition permitted under Section 11.7.
2.18 “Exercise Price” means the price at which a Share may be purchased by a Participant pursuant to the exercise of an Option.
2.19 “Fair Market Value” means, as of any date, the value of Common Stock determined as follows:
(a) If the Common Stock is listed on any established stock exchange or a national market system, including without limitation the Nasdaq National Market or The Nasdaq SmallCap Market of The
2
Nasdaq Stock Market, its Fair Market Value shall be the closing sales price for such stock (or the closing bid, if no sales were reported) as quoted on such exchange or system for the last market trading day prior to the time of determination, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Administrator deems reliable;
(b) If the Common Stock is regularly quoted by a recognized securities dealer but selling prices are not reported, the Fair Market Value of a Share of Common Stock shall be the mean between the high bid and low asked prices for the Common Stock on the last market trading day prior to the day of determination, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Administrator deems reliable; or
(c) In the absence of an established market for the Common Stock, the Fair Market Value shall be determined in good faith by the Administrator.
2.20 “Fiscal Year” means the fiscal year of the Company.
2.21 “Free Cash Flow” means as to any Performance Period, EBITDA less capital expenditures, net interest and taxes actually paid by the Company.
2.22 “Grant Date” means, with respect to an Award, the date that the Award was granted. The Grant Date of an Award shall not be earlier than the date the Award is approved by the Administrator.
2.23 “Incentive Stock Option” means an Option to purchase Shares that is designated as an Incentive Stock Option and is intended to meet the requirements of Section 422 of the Code.
2.24 “Nonqualified Stock Option” means an option to purchase Shares that is not intended to be an Incentive Stock Option.
2.25 “Option” means an Incentive Stock Option or a Nonqualified Stock Option.
2.26 “Participant” means an Employee, Consultant, or Director who has an outstanding Award.
2.27 “Performance Goals” means the goal(s) (or combined goal(s)) determined by the Administrator (in its discretion) to be applicable to a Participant with respect to an Award. As determined by the Administrator, the Performance Goals applicable to an Award may provide for a targeted level or levels of achievement using one or more of the following measures: (a) EBITDA, (b) Free Cash Flow, (c) Profit After Tax, (d) Return on Equity, (e) Revenue, and (f) Total Shareholder Return. The Performance Goals may differ from Participant to Participant and from Award to Award. Any criteria used may be measured, as applicable, (i) in absolute terms, (ii) in relative terms (including, but not limited to, passage of time and/or against another company or companies), (iii) on a per-share basis, (iv) against the performance of the Company as a whole or a business unit of the Company and/or (v) on a pre-tax or after-tax basis. Prior to the Determination Date, the Administrator shall determine whether any element(s) or item(s) shall be included in or excluded from the calculation of any Performance Goal with respect to any Participants.
2.28 “Performance Period” means any Fiscal Year or such longer period as determined by the Administrator in its sole discretion.
2.29 “Performance Share” means an Award granted to a Participant pursuant to Section 9.
2.30 “Performance Unit” means an Award granted to a Participant pursuant to Section 8.
2.31 “Period of Restriction” means the period during which the transfer of Shares of Restricted Stock are subject to restrictions and therefore, the Shares are subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture. As provided in Section 7, such restrictions may be based on the passage of time, the achievement of target levels of performance, or the occurrence of other events as determined by the Administrator, in its discretion.
2.32 “Plan” means the Epicor Software Corporation 2007 Stock Incentive Plan, as set forth in this instrument and as hereafter amended from time to time.
2.33 “Profit After Tax” means as to any Performance Period, the Company’s income after taxes, determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
3
2.34 “Restricted Stock” means an Award granted to a Participant pursuant to Section 7.
2.35 “Return on Equity” means as to any Performance Period, the percentage equal to the Company’s Profit After Tax divided by average stockholder’s equity, determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
2.36 “Revenue” means as to any Performance Period, the Company’s net revenues generated from third parties, determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
2.37 “Rule 16b-3” means Rule 16b-3 promulgated under the 1934 Act, and any future regulation amending, supplementing or superseding such regulation.
2.38 “Section 16 Person” means a person who, with respect to the Shares, is subject to Section 16 of the 1934 Act.
2.39 “Service Provider” means an Employee, Director or Consultant.
2.40 “Shares” means the shares of Common Stock of the Company.
2.41 “Stock Appreciation Right” or “SAR” means an Award, granted alone or in connection with a related Option, that pursuant to Section 6 is designated as a SAR.
2.42 “Subsidiary” means any corporation in an unbroken chain of corporations beginning with the Company as the corporation at the top of the chain, but only if each of the corporations below the Company (other than the last corporation in the unbroken chain) then owns stock possessing fifty percent (50%) or more of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock in one of the other corporations in such chain.
2.43 “Termination of Service” means (a) in the case of an Employee, a cessation of the employee-employer relationship between the Employee and the Company or any Subsidiary for any reason, including, but not by way of limitation, a termination by resignation, discharge, death, Disability, or the disaffiliation of a Subsidiary, but excluding any such termination where there is a simultaneous reemployment by the Company or any Subsidiary; (b) in the case of a Consultant, a cessation of the service relationship between the Consultant and the Company or any Subsidiary for any reason, including, but not by way of limitation, a termination by resignation, discharge, death, Disability, or the disaffiliation of a Subsidiary, but excluding any such termination where there is a simultaneous re-engagement of the consultant by the Company or a Subsidiary; and (c) in the case of a Director, a cessation of the Director’s service on the Board for any reason, including, but not by way of limitation, a termination by resignation, death, Disability, or non-reelection to the Board.
2.44 “Total Shareholder Return” means as to any Performance Period, the total return (change in share price plus reinvestment of any dividends) of a Share.
SECTION 3
ADMINISTRATION
3.1 Procedure.
3.1.1 Multiple Administrative Bodies. Different Committees with respect to different groups of Service Providers may administer the Plan.
3.1.2 Section 162(m). To the extent that the Administrator determines it to be desirable to qualify Awards granted hereunder as “performance-based compensation” within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Code, the Plan shall be administered by a Committee of two or more “outside directors” within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Code.
3.1.3 Rule 16b-3. To the extent desirable to qualify transactions hereunder as exempt under Rule 16b-3, the transactions contemplated hereunder shall be structured to satisfy the requirements for exemption under Rule 16b-3.
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3.1.4 Other Administration. Other than as provided above, the Plan shall be administered by (a) the Board or (b) a Committee, which Committee shall be constituted to satisfy Applicable Laws.
3.2 Powers of the Administrator. Subject to the provisions of the Plan, and in the case of a Committee, subject to the specific duties delegated by the Board to such Committee, the Administrator shall have the authority, in its discretion:
3.2.1 to determine the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock;
3.2.2 to select the Service Providers to whom Awards may be granted hereunder;
3.2.3 to determine whether and to what extent Awards are granted hereunder;
3.2.4 to determine the number of Shares to be covered by each Award granted hereunder;
3.2.5 to approve forms of Award Agreement for use under the Plan;
3.2.6 to determine the terms and conditions, not inconsistent with the terms of the Plan, of any Award granted hereunder. Such terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, the grant date, the exercise price, the time or times when Awards may be exercised or earned (which may be based on performance criteria), any vesting acceleration or waiver of forfeiture or repurchase restrictions, and any restriction or limitation regarding any Award or the Shares relating thereto, based in each case on such factors as the Administrator will determine;
3.2.7 to institute an Exchange Program; however, the Administrator may not institute an Exchange Program without shareholder approval;
3.2.8 to construe and interpret the terms of the Plan and Awards granted pursuant to the Plan;
3.2.9 to prescribe, amend and rescind rules and regulations relating to the Plan, including rules and regulations relating to sub-plans established for the purpose of qualifying for preferred tax treatment under foreign tax laws;
3.2.10 to modify or amend each Award (subject to Section 16(b) of the Plan), including the discretionary authority to extend the post-termination exercisability period of Options and SARs longer than is otherwise provided for in the Plan;
3.2.11 to authorize any person to execute on behalf of the Company any instrument required to effect the grant of an Award previously granted by the Administrator;
3.2.12 to determine the terms and restrictions applicable to Awards;
3.2.13 to allow a Participant to satisfy withholding tax obligations by electing to have the Company withhold from the Shares to be issued upon exercise or vesting of an Award that number of Shares having a Fair Market Value equal to the minimum amount required to be withheld. The Fair Market Value of the Shares to be withheld shall be determined on the date that the amount of tax to be withheld is to be determined. All elections by a Participant to have Shares withheld for this purpose shall be made in such form and under such conditions as the Administrator may deem necessary or advisable; and
3.2.14 to make all other determinations deemed necessary or advisable for administering the Plan.
3.3 Effect of Administrator’s Decision. The Administrator’s decisions, determinations and interpretations will be final and binding on all Participants and any other holders of Awards.
SECTION 4
SHARES SUBJECT TO THE PLAN
4.1 Number of Shares. Subject to adjustment as provided in Section 4.3, the total number of Shares available for issuance under the Plan shall equal the sum of (a) 6,000,000, (b) the number of Shares (not to exceed 82,606)
5
that remain available for grant under the Amended and Restated 1999 Nonstatutory Stock Option Plan and the number of Shares (not to exceed 545,394) that remain available for grant under the Company’s 2005 Stock Incentive Plan as of March 21, 2007, and (c) any Shares (not to exceed 1,933,000) that otherwise would have been returned to the Amended and Restated 1999 Nonstatutory Stock Option Plan and any Shares (not to exceed 2,000,000) that otherwise would have been returned to the 2005 Stock Incentive Plan after March 21, 2007 on account of the expiration, cancellation or forfeiture of awards granted under the applicable plan. Any Shares subject to Options or SARs shall be counted against the numerical limits of this Section 4.1 as one share for every share subject thereto. Any Shares or units subject to Restricted Stock, Performance Share, or Performance Unit Awards with a per share or unit purchase price lower than 100% of the Fair Market Value on the Date of Grant shall be counted against the numerical limits of this Section 4.1 as two Shares for every one Share subject thereto.
4.2 Lapsed Awards. If an Award expires or becomes unexercisable without having been exercised in full, or is surrendered pursuant to an Exchange Program, or, with respect to Restricted Stock, Performance Shares or Performance Units, is forfeited to or repurchased by the Company, the unpurchased Shares (or for Awards other than Options and SARs, the forfeited or repurchased Shares) which were subject thereto will become available for future grant or sale under the Plan (unless the Plan has terminated). With respect to SARs, Shares actually issued pursuant to a SAR as well as the Shares that represent payment of the exercise price shall each cease to be available under the Plan. Shares that have actually been issued under the Plan under any Award will not be returned to the Plan and will not become available for future distribution under the Plan; provided, however, that if unvested Shares of Restricted Stock, Performance Shares or Performance Units are repurchased by the Company or are forfeited to the Company, such Shares will become available for future grant under the Plan. Shares used to pay the tax and exercise price of an Award will not become available for future grant or sale under the Plan. To the extent an Award under the Plan is paid out in cash rather than Shares, such cash payment will not result in reducing the number of Shares available for issuance under the Plan. Notwithstanding the foregoing and, subject to adjustment provided in Section 4.3, the maximum number of Shares that may be issued upon the exercise of Incentive Stock Options shall equal the aggregate Share number stated in Section 4.1, plus, to the extent allowable under Section 422 of the Code, any Shares that become available for issuance under the Plan under this Section 4.2.
4.3 Adjustments in Awards and Authorized Shares. In the event that any dividend or other distribution (whether in the form of cash, Shares, other securities, or other property), recapitalization, stock split, reverse stock split, reorganization, merger, consolidation, split-up, spin-off, combination, repurchase, or exchange of Shares or other securities of the Company, or other change in the corporate structure of the Company affecting the Shares such that an adjustment is determined by the Administrator (in its sole discretion) to be appropriate in order to prevent dilution or enlargement of the benefits or potential benefits intended to be made available under the Plan, then the Administrator shall, in such manner as it may deem equitable, adjust the number and class of Shares which may be delivered under the Plan, the number and class of Shares which may be added annually to the Shares reserved under the Plan, the number, class, and price of Shares subject to outstanding Awards, and the numerical limits of Sections 5.1, 6.1, 7.1, 8.1, and 9.1. Notwithstanding the preceding, the number of Shares subject to any Award always shall be a whole number.
SECTION 5
STOCK OPTIONS
5.1 Grant of Options. Subject to the terms and provisions of the Plan, Options may be granted to Employees, Directors and Consultants at any time and from time to time as determined by the Administrator in its sole discretion. The Administrator, in its sole discretion, shall determine the number of Shares subject to each Option, provided that during any Fiscal Year, no Participant shall be granted Options (and/or SARs) covering more than a total of 1,500,000 Shares. Notwithstanding the foregoing, during the Fiscal Year in which a Participant first becomes an Employee, he or she may be granted Options (and/or SARs) to purchase up to a total
6
of an additional 1,500,000 Shares. The Administrator may grant Incentive Stock Options, Nonqualified Stock Options, or a combination thereof.
5.2 Award Agreement. Each Option shall be evidenced by an Award Agreement that shall specify the Exercise Price, the expiration date of the Option, the number of Shares covered by the Option, any conditions to exercise the Option, and such other terms and conditions as the Administrator, in its discretion, shall determine. The Award Agreement shall also specify whether the Option is intended to be an Incentive Stock Option or a Nonqualified Stock Option.
5.3 Exercise Price. Subject to the provisions of this Section 5.3, the Exercise Price for each Option shall be determined by the Administrator in its sole discretion.
5.3.1 Nonqualified Stock Options. The Exercise Price of each Nonqualified Stock option shall be determined by the Administrator in its discretion but shall be not less than one hundred percent (100%) of the Fair Market Value of a Share on the Grant Date.
5.3.2 Incentive Stock Options. In the case of an Incentive Stock Option, the Exercise Price shall be not less than one hundred percent (100%) of the Fair Market Value of a Share on the Grant Date; provided, however, that if on the Grant Date, the Employee (together with persons whose stock ownership is attributed to the Employee pursuant to Section 424(d) of the Code) owns stock possessing more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries, the Exercise Price shall be not less than one hundred and ten percent (110%) of the Fair Market Value of a Share on the Grant Date.
5.3.3 Substitute Options. Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 5.3.2, in the event that the Company or a Subsidiary consummates a transaction described in Section 424(a) of the Code (e.g., the acquisition of property or stock from an unrelated corporation), persons who become Employees, Directors or Consultants on account of such transaction may be granted Options in substitution for options granted by their former employer. If such substitute Options are granted, the Administrator, in its sole discretion and consistent with Section 424(a) of the Code, may determine that such substitute Options shall have an exercise price less than one hundred percent (100%) of the Fair Market Value of the Shares on the Grant Date.
5.4 Expiration of Options.
5.4.1 Expiration Dates. Each Option shall terminate no later than the first to occur of the following events:
(a) The date for termination of the Option set forth in the written Award Agreement; or
(b) The expiration of ten (10) years from the Grant Date.
5.4.2 Administrator Discretion. Subject to the ten-year limits of Sections 5.4.1, the Administrator, in its sole discretion, (a) shall provide in each Award Agreement when each Option expires and becomes unexercisable, and (b) may, after an Option is granted, extend the maximum term of the Option (subject to Section 5.8.4 regarding Incentive Stock Options).
5.5 Exercisability of Options. Options granted under the Plan shall be exercisable at such times and be subject to such restrictions and conditions as the Administrator shall determine in its sole discretion. After an Option is granted, the Administrator, in its sole discretion, may accelerate the exercisability of the Option.
5.6 Exercise of Option.
5.6.1 Payment. Options shall be exercised by the Participant giving notice and following such procedures as the Company (or its designee) may specify from time to time. Exercise of an Option also
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requires that the Participant make arrangements satisfactory to the Company for full payment of the Exercise Price for the Shares. All exercise notices shall be given in the form and manner specified by the Company from time to time. The Administrator shall determine the acceptable form of consideration for exercising an Option, including the method of payment. In the case of an Incentive Stock Option, the Administrator shall determine the acceptable form of consideration at the time of grant. Subject to Applicable Laws, such consideration may consist entirely of:
(a) cash;
(b) check;
(c) promissory note;
(d) other Shares (A) in the case of Shares acquired upon exercise of an option, have been owned by the Participant for more than six (6) months on the date of surrender, and (B) have a Fair Market Value on the date of surrender equal to the aggregate exercise price of the Shares as to which said Option shall be exercised;
(e) consideration received by the Company under a cashless exercise program implemented by the Company in connection with the Plan;
(f) a reduction in the amount of any Company liability to the Participant, including any liability attributable to the Participant’s participation in any Company-sponsored deferred compensation program or arrangement;
(g) such other consideration and method of payment for the issuance of Shares to the extent permitted by Applicable Laws; or
(h) any combination of the foregoing methods of payment.
As soon as practicable after receipt of a notification of exercise satisfactory to the Company and full payment for the Shares purchased, the Company shall deliver to the Participant (or the Participant’s designated broker), Share certificates (which may be in book entry form) representing such Shares.
5.6.2 Termination of Relationship as a Service Provider. If a Participant ceases to be a Service Provider, other than upon the Participant’s death or Disability, the Participant may exercise his or her Option, but only within such period of time as is specified in the Award Agreement, and only to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of termination (but in no event later than the expiration of the term of such Option as set forth in the Award Agreement). In the absence of a specified time in the Award Agreement, the Option shall remain exercisable for three (3) months following the Participant’s termination. If, on the date of termination, the Participant is not vested as to his or her entire Option, the Shares covered by the unvested portion of the Option shall revert to the Plan. If, after termination, the Participant does not exercise his or her Option within the time specified by the Administrator, the Option shall terminate, and the Shares covered by such Option shall revert to the Plan.
5.6.3 Disability of Participant. If a Participant ceases to be a Service Provider as a result of the Participant’s Disability, the Participant may exercise his or her Option within such period of time as is specified in the Award Agreement, to the extent the Option is vested on the date of termination (but in no event later than the expiration of the term of such Option as set forth in the Award Agreement). In the absence of a specified time in the Award Agreement, the Option shall remain exercisable for twelve (12) months following the Participant’s termination. If, on the date of termination, the Participant is not vested as to his or her entire Option, the Shares covered by the unvested portion of the Option shall revert to the Plan. If, after termination, the Participant does not exercise his or her Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate, and the Shares covered by such Option shall revert to the Plan.
5.6.4 Death of Participant. If a Participant dies while a Service Provider, the Option may be exercised within such period of time as is specified in the Award Agreement (but in no event later than the expiration of the term of such Option as set forth in the Award Agreement), by the Participant’s estate or by a person
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who acquires the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance, but only to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of death. In the absence of a specified time in the Award Agreement, the Option shall remain exercisable for twelve (12) months following the Participant’s termination. If, at the time of death, the Participant is not vested as to his or her entire Option, the Shares covered by the unvested portion of the Option shall immediately revert to the Plan. The Option may be exercised by the executor or administrator of the Participant’s estate or, if none, by the person(s) entitled to exercise the Option under the Participant’s will or the laws of descent or distribution. If the Option is not so exercised within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate, and the Shares covered by such Option shall revert to the Plan.
5.7 Restrictions on Share Transferability. The Administrator may impose such restrictions on any Shares acquired pursuant to the exercise of an Option as it may deem advisable, including, but not limited to, restrictions related to applicable federal securities laws, the requirements of any national securities exchange or system upon which Shares are then listed or traded, or any blue sky or state securities laws.
5.8 Certain Additional Provisions for Incentive Stock Options.
5.8.1 Exercisability. The aggregate Fair Market Value (determined on the Grant Date(s)) of the Shares with respect to which Incentive Stock Options are exercisable for the first time by any Employee during any calendar year (under all plans of the Company and its Subsidiaries) shall not exceed $100,000.
5.8.2 Termination of Service. No Incentive Stock Option may be exercised more than three (3) months after the Participant’s Termination of Service for any reason other than Disability or death, unless (a) the Participant dies during such three-month period, and/or (b) the Award Agreement or the Administrator permits later exercise (in which case the Option instead may be deemed to be a Nonqualified Stock Option). No Incentive Stock Option may be exercised more than one (1) year after the Participant’s Termination of Service on account of Disability, unless (a) the Participant dies during such one-year period, and/or (b) the Award Agreement or the Administrator permit later exercise (in which case the option instead may be deemed to be a Nonqualified Stock Option).
5.8.3 Employees Only. Incentive Stock Options may be granted only to persons who are Employees on the Grant Date.
5.8.4 Expiration. No Incentive Stock Option may be exercised after the expiration of ten (10) years from the Grant Date; provided, however, that if the Option is granted to an Employee who, together with persons whose stock ownership is attributed to the Employee pursuant to Section 424(d) of the Code, owns stock possessing more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of the stock of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries, the Option may not be exercised after the expiration of five (5) years from the Grant Date.
SECTION 6
STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHTS
6.1 Grant of SARs. Subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan, a SAR may be granted to Employees, Directors and Consultants at any time and from time to time as shall be determined by the Administrator, in its sole discretion.
6.1.1 Number of Shares. The Administrator shall have complete discretion to determine the number of SARs granted to any Participant, provided that during any Fiscal Year, no Participant shall be granted SARs (and/or Options) covering more than a total of 1,500,000 Shares. Notwithstanding the foregoing, during the Fiscal Year in which a Participant first becomes an Employee, he or she may be granted SARs (and/or Options) covering up to a total of an additional 1,500,000 Shares.
6.1.2 Exercise Price and Other Terms. The Administrator, subject to the provisions of the Plan, shall have complete discretion to determine the terms and conditions of SARs granted under the Plan. The
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Exercise Price of each SAR shall be determined by the Administrator in its discretion but shall not be less than one hundred percent (100%) of the Fair Market Value of a Share on the Grant Date.
6.2 SAR Agreement. Each SAR grant shall be evidenced by an Award Agreement that shall specify the exercise price, the term of the SAR, the conditions of exercise, and such other terms and conditions as the Administrator, in its sole discretion, shall determine.
6.3 Expiration of SARs. A SAR granted under the Plan shall expire upon the date determined by the Administrator, in its sole discretion, and set forth in the Award Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the rules of Section 5.4 also shall apply to SARs.
6.4 Payment of SAR Amount. Upon exercise of a SAR, a Participant shall be entitled to receive payment from the Company in an amount determined by multiplying:
6.4.1 The difference between the Fair Market Value of a Share on the date of exercise over the exercise price; times
6.4.2 The number of Shares with respect to which the SAR is exercised. At the discretion of the Administrator, the payment upon SAR exercise may be in cash, in Shares of equivalent value, or in some combination thereof.
SECTION 7
RESTRICTED STOCK
7.1 Grant of Restricted Stock. Subject to the terms and provisions of the Plan, the Administrator, at any time and from time to time, may grant Shares of Restricted Stock to Employees, Directors and Consultants as the Administrator, in its sole discretion, shall determine. The Administrator, in its sole discretion, shall determine the number of Shares to be granted to each Participant, provided that during any Fiscal Year, no Participant shall receive more than a total of 1,000,000 Shares of Restricted Stock (and/or Performance Shares). Notwithstanding the foregoing, during the Fiscal Year in which a Participant first becomes an Employee, he or she may be granted up to a total of an additional 1,000,000 Shares of Restricted Stock (and/or Performance Shares).
7.2 Restricted Stock Agreement. Each Award of Restricted Stock shall be evidenced by an Award Agreement that shall specify the Period of Restriction, the number of Shares granted, and such other terms and conditions as the Administrator, in its sole discretion, shall determine. Unless the Administrator determines otherwise, Shares of Restricted Stock shall be held by the Company as escrow agent until the restrictions on such Shares have lapsed.
7.3 Transferability. Except as provided in this Section 7, Shares of Restricted Stock may not be sold, transferred, pledged, assigned, or otherwise alienated or hypothecated until the end of the applicable Period of Restriction.
7.4 Other Restrictions. The Administrator, in its sole discretion, may impose such other restrictions on Shares of Restricted Stock as it may deem advisable or appropriate, in accordance with this Section 7.4.
7.4.1 General Restrictions. The Administrator may set restrictions based upon continued employment or service with the Company and its affiliates, the achievement of specific performance objectives (Company-wide, departmental, or individual), applicable federal or state securities laws, or any other basis determined by the Administrator in its discretion.
7.4.2 Section 162(m) Performance Restrictions. For purposes of qualifying grants of Restricted Stock as “performance-based compensation” under Section 162(m) of the Code, the Administrator, in its discretion, may set restrictions based upon the achievement of Performance Goals. The Performance Goals shall be set by the Administrator on or before the latest date permissible to enable the Restricted Stock to qualify as “performance-based compensation” under Section 162(m) of the Code. In granting Restricted
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Stock which is intended to qualify under Section 162(m) of the Code, the Administrator shall follow any procedures determined by it from time to time to be necessary or appropriate to ensure qualification of the Restricted Stock under Section 162(m) of the Code (e.g., in determining the Performance Goals).
7.4.3 Legend on Certificates. The Administrator, in its discretion, may legend the certificates representing Restricted Stock to give appropriate notice of such restrictions.
7.5 Removal of Restrictions. Except as otherwise provided in this Section 7, Shares of Restricted Stock covered by each Restricted Stock grant made under the Plan shall be released from escrow as soon as practicable after the last day of the Period of Restriction. The Administrator, in its discretion, may accelerate the time at which any restrictions shall lapse or be removed. After the restrictions have lapsed, the Participant shall be entitled to have any legend or legends under Section 7.4.3 removed from his or her Share certificate, and the Shares shall be freely transferable by the Participant. The Administrator (in its discretion) may establish procedures regarding the release of Shares from escrow and the removal of legends, as necessary or appropriate to minimize administrative burdens on the Company
7.6 Voting Rights. During the Period of Restriction, Participants holding Shares of Restricted Stock granted hereunder may exercise full voting rights with respect to those Shares, unless the Administrator determines otherwise.
7.7 Dividends and Other Distributions. During the Period of Restriction, Participants holding Shares of Restricted Stock shall be entitled to receive all dividends and other distributions paid with respect to such Shares unless otherwise provided in the Award Agreement. Any such dividends or distribution shall be subject to the same restrictions on transferability and forfeitability as the Shares of Restricted Stock with respect to which they were paid, unless otherwise provided in the Award Agreement.
7.8 Return of Restricted Stock to Company. On the date set forth in the Award Agreement, the Restricted Stock for which restrictions have not lapsed shall revert to the Company and again shall become available for grant under the Plan.
SECTION 8
PERFORMANCE UNITS
8.1 Grant of Performance Units. Performance Units may be granted to Employees, Directors and Consultants at any time and from time to time, as shall be determined by the Administrator, in its sole discretion. The Administrator shall have complete discretion in determining the number of Performance Units granted to each Participant provided that during any Fiscal Year, no Participant shall receive Performance Units having an initial value greater than $14,000,000.
8.2 Value of Performance Units. Each Performance Unit shall have an initial value that is established by the Administrator on or before the Grant Date.
8.3 Performance Objectives and Other Terms. The Administrator, in its discretion, shall set performance objectives or other vesting criteria which, depending on the extent to which they are met, will determine the number or value of Performance Units that will be paid out to the Participants. Each Award of Performance Units shall be evidenced by an Award Agreement that shall specify the Performance Period, and such other terms and conditions as the Administrator, in its sole discretion, shall determine.
8.3.1 General Performance Objectives or Vesting Criteria. The Administrator may set performance objectives or vesting criteria based upon the achievement of Company-wide, departmental, or individual goals, applicable federal or state securities laws, or any other basis determined by the Administrator in its discretion (for example, but not by way of limitation, continuous service as an Employee, Director or Consultant).
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8.3.2 Section 162(m) Performance Objectives. For purposes of qualifying grants of Performance Units as “performance-based compensation” under Section 162(m) of the Code, the Administrator, in its discretion, may determine that the performance objectives applicable to Performance Units shall be based on the achievement of Performance Goals. The Performance Goals shall be set by the Administrator on or before the latest date permissible to enable the Performance Units to qualify as “performance-based compensation” under Section 162(m) of the Code. In granting Performance Units that are intended to qualify under Section 162(m) of the Code, the Administrator shall follow any procedures determined by it from time to time to be necessary or appropriate to ensure qualification of the Performance Units under Section 162(m) of the Code (e.g., in determining the Performance Goals).
8.4 Earning of Performance Units. After the applicable Performance Period has ended, the holder of Performance Units shall be entitled to receive a payout of the number of Performance Units earned by the Participant over the Performance Period, to be determined as a function of the extent to which the corresponding performance objectives have been achieved. After the grant of a Performance Unit, the Administrator, in its sole discretion, may reduce or waive any performance objectives for such Performance Unit.
8.5 Form and Timing of Payment of Performance Units. Payment of earned Performance Units shall be made as soon as practicable after the expiration of the applicable Performance Period. The Administrator, in its sole discretion, may pay earned Performance Units in the form of cash, in Shares (which have an aggregate Fair Market Value equal to the value of the earned Performance Units at the close of the applicable Performance Period) or in a combination thereof.
8.6 Cancellation of Performance Units. On the date set forth in the Award Agreement, all unearned or unvested Performance Units shall be forfeited to the Company, and again shall be available for grant under the Plan.
SECTION 9
PERFORMANCE SHARES
9.1 Grant of Performance Shares. Performance Shares may be granted to Employees, Directors and Consultants at any time and from time to time, as shall be determined by the Administrator, in its sole discretion. The Administrator shall have complete discretion in determining the number of Performance Shares granted to each Participant, provided that during any Fiscal Year, no Participant shall be granted more than a total of 1,000,000 Performance Shares (and/or Shares of Restricted Stock). Notwithstanding the foregoing, during the Fiscal Year in which a Participant first becomes an Employee, he or she may be granted up to a total of an additional 1,000,000 Performance Shares (and/or Shares of Restricted Stock).
9.2 Value of Performance Shares. Each Performance Share shall have an initial value equal to the Fair Market Value of a Share on the Grant Date.
9.3 Performance Share Agreement. Each Award of Performance Shares shall be evidenced by an Award Agreement that shall specify any vesting conditions, the number of Performance Shares granted, and such other terms and conditions as the Administrator, in its sole discretion, shall determine.
9.4 Performance Objectives and Other Terms. The Administrator, in its discretion, shall set performance objectives or other vesting criteria which, depending on the extent to which they are met, will determine the number or value of Performance Shares that will be paid out to the Participants. Each Award of Performance Shares shall be evidenced by an Award Agreement that shall specify the Performance Period, and such other terms and conditions as the Administrator, in its sole discretion, shall determine.
9.4.1 General Performance Objectives or Vesting Criteria. The Administrator may set performance objectives or vesting criteria based upon the achievement of Company-wide, departmental, or individual
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goals, applicable federal or state securities laws, or any other basis determined by the Administrator in its discretion (for example, but not by way of limitation, continuous service as an Employee, Director or Consultant).
9.4.2 Section 162(m) Performance Objectives. For purposes of qualifying grants of Performance Shares as “performance-based compensation” under Section 162(m) of the Code, the Administrator, in its discretion, may determine that the performance objectives applicable to Performance Shares shall be based on the achievement of Performance Goals. The Performance Goals shall be set by the Administrator on or before the latest date permissible to enable the Performance Shares to qualify as “performance-based compensation” under Section 162(m) of the Code. In granting Performance Shares that are intended to qualify under Section 162(m) of the Code, the Administrator shall follow any procedures determined by it from time to time to be necessary or appropriate to ensure qualification of the Performance Shares under Section 162(m) of the Code (e.g., in determining the Performance Goals).
9.5 Earning of Performance Shares. After the applicable Performance Period has ended, the holder of Performance Shares shall be entitled to receive a payout of the number of Performance Shares earned by the Participant over the Performance Period, to be determined as a function of the extent to which the corresponding performance objectives have been achieved. After the grant of a Performance Share, the Administrator, in its sole discretion, may reduce or waive any performance objectives for such Performance Share.
9.6 Form and Timing of Payment of Performance Shares. Payment of vested Performance Shares shall be made as soon as practicable after vesting (subject to any deferral permitted under Section 11.1). The Administrator, in its sole discretion, may pay Performance Shares in the form of cash, in Shares or in a combination thereof.
9.7 Cancellation of Performance Shares. On the date set forth in the Award Agreement, all unvested Performance Shares shall be forfeited to the Company, and except as otherwise determined by the Administrator, again shall be available for grant under the Plan.
SECTION 10
CHANGE OF CONTROL, DISSOLUTION AND LIQUIDATION
10.1 Change of Control. Except as otherwise provided in the applicable Award Agreement, in the event that a Change of Control occurs, the Participant, immediately prior thereto, shall fully vest in and have the right to exercise all of his or her outstanding Options and Stock Appreciation Rights, including Shares as to which such Awards would not otherwise be vested or exercisable, all restrictions on Restricted Stock, Performance Units, and Performance Shares will lapse, and, with respect to Awards with performance-based vesting, all performance goals or other vesting criteria will be deemed achieved at one hundred percent (100%) on-target levels and all other terms and conditions met. To the extent possible, the Administrator shall cause written notice of the Change of Control to be given to the persons holding Awards not less than ten (10) days prior to the anticipated effective date of the Change of Control. In the event of a Change of Control, the Administrator may take such other action as is equitable and fair, in its sole discretion.
10.2 Dissolution or Liquidation. In the event of the proposed dissolution or liquidation of the Company, the Administrator will notify each Participant as soon as practicable prior to the effective date of such proposed transaction. To the extent it has not been previously exercised, an Award will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such proposed action.
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SECTION 11
MISCELLANEOUS
11.1 Deferrals. The Administrator, in its sole discretion, may permit a Participant to defer receipt of the payment of cash or the delivery of Shares that would otherwise be due to such Participant under an Award. Any such deferral elections shall be subject to such rules and procedures as shall be determined by the Administrator in its sole discretion.
11.2 No Effect on Employment or Service. Nothing in the Plan shall interfere with or limit in any way the right of the Company to terminate any Participant’s employment or service at any time, with or without cause. For purposes of the Plan, transfer of employment of a Participant between the Company and any one of its Subsidiaries (or between Subsidiaries) shall not be deemed a Termination of Service. Employment with the Company and its Subsidiaries is on an at-will basis only.
11.3 Participation. No Employee, Director or Consultant shall have the right to be selected to receive an Award under this Plan, or, having been so selected, to be selected to receive a future Award.
11.4 Indemnification. Each person who is or shall have been a member of the Administrator, or of the Board, shall be indemnified and held harmless by the Company against and from (a) any loss, cost, liability, or expense that may be imposed upon or reasonably incurred by him or her in connection with or resulting from any claim, action, suit, or proceeding to which he or she may be a party or in which he or she may be involved by reason of any action taken or failure to act under the Plan or any Award Agreement, and (b) from any and all amounts paid by him or her in settlement thereof, with the Company’s approval, or paid by him or her in satisfaction of any judgment in any such claim, action, suit, or proceeding against him or her, provided he or she shall give the Company an opportunity, at its own expense, to handle and defend the same before he or she undertakes to handle and defend it on his or her own behalf. The foregoing right of indemnification shall not be exclusive of any other rights of indemnification to which such persons may be entitled under the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation or Bylaws, by contract, as a matter of law, or otherwise, or under any power that the Company may have to indemnify them or hold them harmless.
11.5 Successors. All obligations of the Company under the Plan, with respect to Awards granted hereunder, shall be binding on any successor to the Company, whether the existence of such successor is the result of a direct or indirect purchase, merger, consolidation, or otherwise, of all or substantially all of the business or assets of the Company.
11.6 Beneficiary Designations. If permitted by the Administrator, a Participant under the Plan may name a beneficiary or beneficiaries to whom any vested but unpaid Award shall be paid in the event of the Participant’s death. Each such designation shall revoke all prior designations by the Participant and shall be effective only if given in a form and manner acceptable to the Administrator. In the absence of any such designation, any vested benefits remaining unpaid at the Participant’s death shall be paid to the Participant’s estate and, subject to the terms of the Plan and of the applicable Award Agreement, any unexercised vested Award may be exercised by the administrator or executor of the Participant’s estate.
11.7 Limited Transferability of Awards. No Award granted under the Plan may be sold, transferred, pledged, assigned, or otherwise alienated or hypothecated, other than by will, by the laws of descent and distribution, or to the limited extent provided in Section 11.6. All rights with respect to an Award granted to a Participant shall be available during his or her lifetime only to the Participant. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a Participant may, if the Administrator (in its discretion) so permits, transfer an Award to an individual or entity other than the Company. Any such transfer shall be made in accordance with such procedures as the Administrator may specify from time to time.
11.8 No Rights as Stockholder. Except to the limited extent provided in Sections 7.6, no Participant (nor any beneficiary) shall have any of the rights or privileges of a stockholder of the Company with respect to any Shares
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issuable pursuant to an Award (or exercise thereof), unless and until certificates representing such Shares shall have been issued, recorded on the records of the Company or its transfer agents or registrars, and delivered to the Participant (or beneficiary).
SECTION 12
AMENDMENT, TERMINATION, AND DURATION
12.1 Amendment, Suspension, or Termination. The Board, in its sole discretion, may amend, suspend or terminate the Plan, or any part thereof, at any time and for any reason. The amendment, suspension, or termination of the Plan shall not, without the consent of the Participant, alter or impair any rights or obligations under any Award theretofore granted to such Participant. No Award may be granted during any period of suspension or after termination of the Plan.
12.2 Duration of the Plan. The Plan shall be effective as of March 30, 2007, and subject to Section 12.1 (regarding the Board’s right to amend or terminate the Plan), shall remain in effect thereafter. However, without further stockholder approval, no Incentive Stock Option may be granted under the Plan after March 30, 2017.
SECTION 13
TAX WITHHOLDING
13.1 Withholding Requirements. Prior to the delivery of any Shares or cash pursuant to an Award (or exercise thereof), the Company shall have the power and the right to deduct or withhold, or require a Participant to remit to the Company, an amount sufficient to satisfy federal, state, and local taxes (including the Participant’s FICA obligation) required to be withheld with respect to such Award (or exercise thereof).
13.2 Withholding Arrangements. The Administrator, in its sole discretion and pursuant to such procedures as it may specify from time to time, may permit a Participant to satisfy such tax withholding obligation, in whole or in part by (a) electing to have the Company withhold otherwise deliverable Shares, or (b) delivering to the Company already-owned Shares having a Fair Market Value equal to the minimum amount required to be withheld.
SECTION 14
LEGAL CONSTRUCTION
14.1 Gender and Number. Except where otherwise indicated by the context, any masculine term used herein also shall include the feminine; the plural shall include the singular and the singular shall include the plural.
14.2 Severability. In the event any provision of the Plan shall be held illegal or invalid for any reason, the illegality or invalidity shall not affect the remaining parts of the Plan, and the Plan shall be construed and enforced as if the illegal or invalid provision had not been included.
14.3 Requirements of Law. The granting of Awards and the issuance of Shares under the Plan shall be subject to all applicable laws, rules, and regulations, and to such approvals by any governmental agencies or national securities exchanges as may be required.
14.4 Securities Law Compliance. With respect to Section 16 Persons, transactions under this Plan are intended to qualify for the exemption provided by Rule 16b-3. To the extent any provision of the Plan, Award Agreement or action by the Administrator fails to so comply, it shall be deemed null and void, to the extent permitted by law and deemed advisable or appropriate by the Administrator.
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14.5 Governing Law. The Plan and all Award Agreements shall be construed in accordance with and governed by the laws of the State of California (with the exception of its conflict of laws provisions).
14.6 Captions. Captions are provided herein for convenience only, and shall not serve as a basis for interpretation or construction of the Plan.
EXECUTION
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Company, by its duly authorized officer, has executed this Plan on the date indicated below.
EPICOR SOFTWARE CORPORATION | ||||
By | /s/ Xxxx X. Xxxxxxx | |||
Title: | Senior Vice President & General Counsel | |||
Dated: March 30, 2007 |
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