New Hampshire Share Appreciation Rights Plan with Amendment: Understanding the Key Features and Variations The New Hampshire Share Appreciation Rights Plan (NH SAR Plan) is a comprehensive employee benefit program that aims to incentivize and reward employees for their efforts and contributions towards the growth and success of a company. By granting employees the opportunity to participate in the plan, companies can align the interests of their workforce with that of the shareholders, fostering a sense of ownership and motivation. With various types of SAR plans available in New Hampshire, it's crucial to understand their distinct features and amendments. 1. Basic Structure: The NH SAR Plan is typically structured as a cash-settled, equity-based incentive program that provides eligible employees with the right to receive cash payments based on the appreciation in the company's stock value over a specific period. This allows employees to benefit from the increase in share price without actually owning the underlying shares. 2. Eligibility and Participation: Eligibility criteria may vary depending on the company. Generally, these plans are offered to key employees, executives, and other designated individuals who play a crucial role in the organization's success. The plan usually outlines specific periods during which employees can elect to participate in the NH SAR Plan. 3. Amendment: The amendment to the NH SAR Plan refers to any modifications made to the existing plan. Amendments could involve changes to key provisions, such as grant terms, vesting schedules, eligibility criteria, or the calculation of appreciation in share value. Companies may choose to amend their plans to accommodate evolving business needs or as a response to regulatory changes. Types of New Hampshire Share Appreciation Rights Plans: a. Performance-Based SAR Plans: Performance-based SAR plans are structured to reward employees based on predefined performance goals or targets. The appreciation in stock value is contingent upon achieving specific milestones, such as revenue growth, market share expansion, or other measurable objectives. These plans provide a powerful tool for driving company performance while incentivizing employees. b. Time-Vested SAR Plans: Time-vested SAR plans grant employees the right to receive cash payments based on the passage of time. As employees remain with the company for a specific duration, their SARS gradually vest, enabling them to realize cash benefits. The vesting schedule may be linear (e.g., 25% per year) or include cliff vesting (e.g., full vesting after a specific number of years). c. Reload SAR Plans: Reload SAR plans are designed to replenish an employee's SARS after exercise. After exercising their SARS, employees are granted additional SARS equal to the number of shares used to settle the previous SAR exercise. This plan provides ongoing opportunities for employees to continue participating in the company's future success. d. Cash-Settled SAR Plans: Cash-settled SAR plans are prevalent in New Hampshire. The appreciation in stock value triggers a cash payment to employees, negating the need for actual stock issuance. This type of plan reduces potential dilution to existing shareholders and administrative complexities associated with stock-based plans. In conclusion, the New Hampshire Share Appreciation Rights Plan, with its various amendments and plan types, represents an attractive employee incentive program for companies in the region. By utilizing these plans effectively, businesses can align their workforce's interests with organizational goals, ultimately driving increased performance and long-term success.