NOTICE OF STOCK OPTION GRANT
EXHIBIT 10.4
NEXSAN CORPORATION
2011 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN
NOTICE OF STOCK OPTION GRANT
Unless otherwise defined herein, the terms defined in the 2011 Nexsan Corporation (the “Company”) Equity Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) shall have the same meanings in this Notice of Stock Option Grant (the “Notice”).
Name:
Address:
You (the “Participant”) have been granted an option to purchase shares of Common Stock of the Company under the Plan subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan, this Notice and the Stock Option Award Agreement (the “Option Agreement”).
Grant Number:
Date of Grant:
Vesting Commencement Date:
Exercise Price per Share:
Total Number of Shares:
Type of Option: Non-Qualified Stock Option ( shares)
Incentive Stock Option ( shares)
Expiration Date:
| Post-Termination Exercise Period: | Termination for Cause = None |
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| Termination without Cause = 3 Months |
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| Disability = 12 Months |
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| Death = 12 Months |
Vesting Schedule: Subject to the limitations set forth in this Notice, the Plan and the Option Agreement, the Option will vest and may be exercised, in whole or in part, in accordance with the following schedule: [INSERT VESTING SCHEDULE]
You understand that your employment or consulting relationship or service with the Company is for an unspecified duration, can be terminated at any time (i.e., is “at-will”), and that nothing in this Notice, the Option Agreement or the Plan changes the at-will nature of that relationship. You acknowledge that the vesting of the Options pursuant to this Notice is earned only by continuing service as an Employee, Director or Consultant of the Company. Participant also understands that this Notice is subject to the terms and conditions of both the Option Agreement and the Plan, both of which are incorporated herein by reference. Participant has read both the Option Agreement and the Plan.
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NEXSAN CORPORATION
2011 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN
STOCK OPTION AWARD AGREEMENT
Unless otherwise defined in this Stock Option Award Agreement (the “Agreement”), any capitalized terms used herein shall have the meaning ascribed to them in the Nexsan Corporation (the “Company”) 2011 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Plan”).
Participant has been granted an option to purchase Shares (the “Option”), subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan, the Notice of Stock Option Grant (the “Notice”) and this Agreement.
1. Vesting Rights. Subject to the applicable provisions of the Plan and this Agreement, this Option may be exercised, in whole or in part, in accordance with the schedule set forth in the Notice.
2. Termination Period.
(a) General Rule. Except as provided below, and subject to the Plan, this Option may be exercised for 3 months after termination of Participant’s employment with the Company. In no event shall this Option be exercised later than the Expiration Date set forth in the Notice.
(b) Death; Disability. Unless provided otherwise in the Notice, upon the termination of Participant’s service to the Company by reason of his or her Disability or death, or if a Participant dies within three months of the Termination Date, this Option may be exercised for twelve months, provided that in no event shall this Option be exercised later than the Expiration Date set forth in the Notice.
(c) Cause. Upon the termination of Participant’s employment by the Company for Cause, the Option shall expire on such date of Participant’s Termination Date.
3. Grant of Option. The Participant named in the Notice has been granted an Option for the number of Shares set forth in the Notice at the exercise price per Share set forth in the Notice (the “Exercise Price”). In the event of a conflict between the terms and conditions of the Plan and the terms and conditions of this Agreement, the terms and conditions of the Plan shall prevail. If designated in the Notice as an Incentive Stock Option (“ISO”), this Option is intended to qualify as an Incentive Stock Option under Section 422 of the Code. However, if this Option is intended to be an ISO, to the extent that it exceeds the $100,000 rule of Code Section 422(d) it shall be treated as a Nonqualified Stock Option (“NSO”).
4. Exercise of Option.
(a) Right to Exercise. This Option is exercisable during its term in accordance with the Vesting Schedule set forth in the Notice and the applicable provisions of the Plan and this Agreement. In the event of Participant’s death, Disability, Termination for Cause or other Termination, the exercisability of the Option is governed by the applicable provisions of the Plan, the Notice and this Agreement.
(b) Method of Exercise. This Option is exercisable by delivery of an exercise notice (the “Exercise Notice”), which shall state the election to exercise the Option, the number of Shares in respect of which the Option is being exercised (the “Exercised Shares”), and such other representations and agreements as may be required by the Company pursuant to the provisions of the Plan. The Exercise Notice shall be delivered in person, by mail, via electronic mail or facsimile or by other authorized method to the Secretary of the Company or other person designated by the Company. The Exercise Notice shall be accompanied by payment of the aggregate Exercise Price as to all Exercised Shares. This
Option shall be deemed to be exercised upon receipt by the Company of such fully executed Exercise Notice accompanied by such aggregate Exercise Price.
(c) No Shares shall be issued pursuant to the exercise of this Option unless such issuance and exercise complies with all relevant provisions of law and the requirements of any stock exchange or quotation service upon which the Shares are then listed. Assuming such compliance, for income tax purposes the Exercised Shares shall be considered transferred to the Participant on the date the Option is exercised with respect to such Exercised Shares.
5. Method of Payment. Payment of the aggregate Exercise Price shall be by any of the following, or a combination thereof, at the election of the Participant:
(a) cash;
(b) check;
(c) a “broker-assisted” or “same-day sale” (as described in Section 11(d) of the Plan); or
(d) other method authorized by the Company.
6. Non-Transferability of Option. This Option may not be transferred in any manner other than by will or by the laws of descent or distribution or court order and may be exercised during the lifetime of Participant only by the Participant unless otherwise permitted by the Committee on a case-by-case basis. The terms of the Plan and this Agreement shall be binding upon the executors, administrators, heirs, successors and assigns of the Participant.
7. Term of Option. This Option shall in any event expire on the expiration date set forth in the Notice of Stock Option Grant, which date is 10 years after the Date of Grant (five years after the Date of Grant if this option is designated as an ISO in the Notice of Stock Option Grant and Section 5.3 of the Plan applies).
8. U.S. Tax Consequences. For Participants subject to U.S. income tax, some of the federal tax consequences relating to this Option, as of the date of this Option, are set forth below. All other Participants should consult a tax advisor for tax consequences relating to this Option in their respective jurisdiction. THIS SUMMARY IS NECESSARILY INCOMPLETE, AND THE TAX LAWS AND REGULATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. THE PARTICIPANT SHOULD CONSULT A TAX ADVISER BEFORE EXERCISING THIS OPTION OR DISPOSING OF THE SHARES.
(a) Exercising the Option.
(i) Nonqualified Stock Option. The Participant may incur federal ordinary income tax liability upon exercise of a NSO. The Participant will be treated as having received compensation income (taxable at ordinary income tax rates) equal to the excess, if any, of the Fair Market Value of the Exercised Shares on the date of exercise over their aggregate Exercise Price. If the Participant is an Employee or a former Employee, the Company will be required to withhold from his or her compensation an amount equal to the minimum amount the Company is required to withhold for income and employment taxes or collect from Participant and pay to the applicable taxing authorities an amount in cash equal to a percentage of this compensation income at the time of exercise, and may refuse to honor the exercise and refuse to deliver Shares if such withholding amounts are not delivered at the time of exercise.
(ii) Incentive Stock Option. If this Option qualifies as an ISO, the Participant will have no regular federal income tax liability upon its exercise, although the excess, if any, of the aggregate Fair Market Value of the Exercised Shares on the date of exercise over their aggregate
Exercise Price will be treated as an adjustment to alternative minimum taxable income for federal tax purposes and may subject the Participant to alternative minimum tax in the year of exercise.
(b) Disposition of Shares.
(i) NSO. If the Participant holds NSO Shares for at least one year, any gain realized on disposition of the Shares will be treated as long-term capital gain for federal income tax purposes.
(ii) ISO. If the Participant holds ISO Shares for at least one year after exercise and two years after the grant date, any gain realized on disposition of the Shares will be treated as long-term capital gain for federal income tax purposes. If the Participant disposes of ISO Shares within one year after exercise or two years after the grant date, any gain realized on such disposition will be treated as compensation income (taxable at ordinary income rates) to the extent of the excess, if any, of the lesser of (A) the difference between the Fair Market Value of the Shares acquired on the date of exercise and the aggregate Exercise Price, or (B) the difference between the sale price of such Shares and the aggregate Exercise Price.
(c) Notice of Disqualifying Disposition of ISO Shares. If the Participant sells or otherwise disposes of any of the Shares acquired pursuant to an ISO on or before the later of (i) two years after the grant date, or (ii) one year after the exercise date, the Participant shall immediately notify the Company in writing of such disposition. The Participant agrees that he or she may be subject to income tax withholding by the Company on the compensation income recognized from such early disposition of ISO Shares by payment in cash or out of the current earnings paid to the Participant.
9. Acknowledgement. The Company and Participant agree that the Option is granted under and governed by the Notice, this Agreement and by the provisions of the Plan (incorporated herein by reference). Participant: (i) acknowledges receipt of a copy of the Plan and the Plan prospectus, (ii) represents that Participant has carefully read and is familiar with their provisions, and (iii) hereby accepts the Option subject to all of the terms and conditions set forth herein and those set forth in the Plan and the Notice.
10. Entire Agreement; Enforcement of Rights. This Agreement, the Plan and the Notice constitute the entire agreement and understanding of the parties relating to the subject matter herein and supersede all prior discussions between them. Any prior agreements, commitments or negotiations concerning the purchase of the Shares hereunder are superseded. No modification of or amendment to this Agreement, nor any waiver of any rights under this Agreement, shall be effective unless in writing and signed by the parties to this Agreement. The failure by either party to enforce any rights under this Agreement shall not be construed as a waiver of any rights of such party.
11. Compliance with Laws and Regulations. The issuance of Shares will be subject to and conditioned upon compliance by the Company and Participant with all applicable state and federal laws and regulations and with all applicable requirements of any stock exchange or automated quotation system on which the Company’s Common Stock may be listed or quoted at the time of such issuance or transfer.
12. Governing Law; Severability. If one or more provisions of this Agreement are held to be unenforceable under applicable law, the parties agree to renegotiate such provision in good faith. In the event that the parties cannot reach a mutually agreeable and enforceable replacement for such provision, then (i) such provision shall be excluded from this Agreement, (ii) the balance of this Agreement shall be interpreted as if such provision were so excluded and (iii) the balance of this Agreement shall be enforceable in accordance with its terms. This Agreement and all acts and transactions pursuant hereto and the rights and obligations of the parties hereto shall be governed, construed and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of California, without giving effect to principles of conflicts of law.
13. No Rights as Employee, Director or Consultant. Nothing in this Agreement shall affect in any manner whatsoever the right or power of the Company, or a Parent or Subsidiary of the Company, to terminate Participant’s service, for any reason, with or without cause.
By your signature and the signature of the Company’s representative on the Notice, you and the Company agree that this Option is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of the Plan, the Notice and this Agreement. Participant has reviewed the Plan, the Notice and this Agreement in their entirety, has had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing the Notice, and fully understands all provisions of the Plan, the Notice and this Agreement. Participant hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the Committee upon any questions relating to the Plan, the Notice and the Agreement. Participant further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in the residence address indicated on the Notice.
NEXSAN CORPORATION
2011 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN
NOTICE OF RESTRICTED STOCK UNIT AWARD
GRANT NUMBER:
Unless otherwise defined herein, the terms defined in the Nexsan Corporation (the “Company”) 2011 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) shall have the same meanings in this Notice of Restricted Stock Unit Award (the “Notice”).
Name:
Address:
You (“Participant”) have been granted an award of Restricted Stock Units (“RSUs”) under the Plan subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan, this Notice and the attached Award Agreement (Restricted Stock Units) (hereinafter “RSU Agreement”).
Number of RSUs:
Date of Grant:
Vesting Commencement Date:
| Expiration Date: | The date on which settlement of all RSUs granted hereunder occurs, with earlier expiration upon the Termination Date. | |
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| Vesting Schedule: | Subject to the limitations set forth in this Notice, the Plan and the RSU Agreement, and provided you provide continuous services to the Company or its subsidiaries during such period, a portion of the RSUs will vest upon the 6-month anniversary of the consummation of the Company’s initial public offering equal to the number of full calendar months that have elapsed since the date of grant until such 6-month anniversary date divided by 48, with the remaining RSUs vesting ratably upon each three-month period from the 6-month anniversary of the consummation of the Company’s initial public offering to the 4-year anniversary of the Date of Grant. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the RSUs will vest in full immediately prior to the closing of a merger of the Company with or into another corporation in which a majority of the voting power of the Company is transferred, or the sale of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company, provided in each case you provide continuous services to the Company or its subsidiaries during such period. | |
You understand that your employment or consulting relationship or service with the Company is for an unspecified duration, can be terminated at any time (i.e., is “at-will”), and that nothing in this Notice, the RSU Agreement or the Plan changes the at-will nature of that relationship. You acknowledge that the vesting of the RSUs pursuant to this Notice is earned only by continuing service as an Employee, Director or Consultant of the Company. You also understand that this Notice is subject to the terms and conditions of both the RSU Agreement and the Plan, both of which are incorporated herein by reference. Participant has read both the RSU Agreement and the Plan.
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NEXSAN CORPORATION
AWARD AGREEMENT (RESTRICTED STOCK UNITS) TO THE
NEXSAN CORPORATION 2011 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN
Unless otherwise defined herein, the terms defined in the Nexsan Corporation (the “Company”) 2011 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) shall have the same defined meanings in this Award Agreement (Restricted Stock Units) (the “Agreement”).
You have been granted Restricted Stock Units (“RSUs”) subject to the terms, restrictions and conditions of the Plan, the Notice of Restricted Stock Unit Award (the “Notice”) and this Agreement.
1. Settlement. Settlement of RSUs shall be made within 30 days following the applicable date of vesting under the vesting schedule set forth in the Notice. Settlement of RSUs shall be in Shares.
2. No Stockholder Rights. Unless and until such time as Shares are issued in settlement of vested RSUs, Participant shall have no ownership of the Shares allocated to the RSUs and shall have no right dividends or to vote such Shares.
3. Dividend Equivalents. Dividends, if any (whether in cash or Shares), shall not be credited to Participant.
4. No Transfer. The RSUs and any interest therein shall not be sold, assigned, transferred, pledged, hypothecated, or otherwise disposed of.
5. Termination. If Participant’s service Terminates for any reason, all unvested RSUs shall be forfeited to the Company forthwith, and all rights of Participant to such RSUs shall immediately terminate. In case of any dispute as to whether Termination has occurred, the Committee shall have sole discretion to determine whether such Termination has occurred and the effective date of such Termination.
6. U.S. Tax Consequences. Participant acknowledges that there will be tax consequences upon settlement of the RSUs or disposition of the Shares, if any, received in connection therewith, and Participant should consult a tax adviser regarding Participant’s tax obligations prior to such settlement or disposition. Upon vesting of the RSU, Participant will include in income the fair market value of the Shares subject to the RSU. The included amount will be treated as ordinary income by Participant and will be subject to withholding by the Company when required by applicable law. Upon disposition of the Shares, any subsequent increase or decrease in value will be treated as short-term or long-term capital gain or loss, depending on whether the Shares are held for more than one year from the date of settlement. Further, an RSU may be considered a deferral of compensation that may be subject to Section 409A of the Code. Section 409A of the Code imposes special rules to the timing of making and effecting certain amendments of this RSU with respect to distribution of any deferred compensation. You should consult your personal tax advisor for more information on the actual and potential tax consequences of this RSU.
7. Acknowledgement. The Company and Participant agree that the RSUs are granted under and governed by the Notice, this Agreement and the provisions of the Plan. Participant: (i) acknowledges receipt of a copy of the Plan and the Plan prospectus, (ii) represents that Participant has carefully read and is familiar with their provisions, and (iii) hereby accepts the RSUs subject to all of the terms and conditions set forth herein and those set forth in the Plan and the Notice.
8. Entire Agreement; Enforcement of Rights. This Agreement, the Plan and the Notice constitute the entire agreement and understanding of the parties relating to the subject matter herein and supersede all prior discussions between them. Any prior agreements, commitments or negotiations concerning the purchase of the Shares hereunder are superseded. No modification of or amendment to this Agreement, nor any waiver of any rights under this Agreement, shall be effective unless in writing and signed by the parties to this Agreement. The
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failure by either party to enforce any rights under this Agreement shall not be construed as a waiver of any rights of such party.
9. Compliance with Laws and Regulations. The issuance of Shares will be subject to and conditioned upon compliance by the Company and Participant with all applicable state and federal laws and regulations and with all applicable requirements of any stock exchange or automated quotation system on which the Company’s Common Stock may be listed or quoted at the time of such issuance or transfer.
10. Governing Law; Severability. If one or more provisions of this Agreement are held to be unenforceable under applicable law, the parties agree to renegotiate such provision in good faith. In the event that the parties cannot reach a mutually agreeable and enforceable replacement for such provision, then (i) such provision shall be excluded from this Agreement, (ii) the balance of this Agreement shall be interpreted as if such provision were so excluded and (iii) the balance of this Agreement shall be enforceable in accordance with its terms. This Agreement and all acts and transactions pursuant hereto and the rights and obligations of the parties hereto shall be governed, construed and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of California, without giving effect to principles of conflicts of law.
11. No Rights as Employee, Director or Consultant. Nothing in this Agreement shall affect in any manner whatsoever the right or power of the Company, or a Parent or Subsidiary of the Company, to terminate Participant’s service, for any reason, with or without cause.
By your signature and the signature of the Company’s representative on the Notice, Participant and the Company agree that this RSU is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of the Plan, the Notice and this Agreement. Participant has reviewed the Plan, the Notice and this Agreement in their entirety, has had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Agreement, and fully understands all provisions of the Plan, the Notice and this Agreement. Participant hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the Committee upon any questions relating to the Plan, the Notice and this Agreement. Participant further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in Participant’s residence address.
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NEXSAN CORPORATION
2011 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN
NOTICE OF STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHT AWARD
GRANT NUMBER:
Unless otherwise defined herein, the terms defined in the Nexsan Corporation (the “Company”) 2011 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) shall have the same meanings in this Notice of Stock Appreciation Right Award (the “Notice”).
Name:
Address:
You (“Participant”) have been granted an award of Stock Appreciation Rights (“SARs”) under the Plan subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan, this Notice and the attached Stock Appreciation Right Award Agreement (hereinafter “SAR Agreement”).
Number of SARs:
Maximum Number of Shares Issuable:
Date of Grant:
Fair Market Value of a Share on Date of Grant:
Vesting Commencement Date:
| Expiration Date: | The date on which settlement of all SARs granted hereunder occurs, with earlier expiration upon the Termination Date. | |
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| Vesting Schedule: | Subject to the limitations set forth in this Notice, the Plan and the SAR Agreement, the SARs will vest in accordance with the following schedule: [INSERT VESTING SCHEDULE] | |
You understand that your employment or consulting relationship or service with the Company is for an unspecified duration, can be terminated at any time (i.e., is “at-will”), and that nothing in this Notice, the SAR Agreement or the Plan changes the at-will nature of that relationship. You acknowledge that the vesting of the SARs pursuant to this Notice is earned only by continuing service as an Employee, Director or Consultant of the Company. Participant also understands that this Notice is subject to the terms and conditions of both the SAR Agreement and the Plan, both of which are incorporated herein by reference. Participant has read both the SAR Agreement and the Plan.
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NEXSAN CORPORATION
STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHT AWARD AGREEMENT TO THE
NEXSAN CORPORATION 2011 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN
Unless otherwise defined herein, the terms defined in the Nexsan Corporation (the “Company”) 2011 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) shall have the same meanings in this Stock Appreciation Right Award Agreement (the “Agreement”).
You have been granted Stock Appreciation Rights (“SARs”) subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan, the Notice of Stock Appreciation Right Award (the “Notice”) and this Agreement.
1. Settlement. Settlement of SARs shall be made within 30 days following the applicable date of vesting under the vesting schedule set forth in the Notice. Settlement of SARs shall be in Shares, except no fractional shares will be issued in settlement of SARs. Any amounts attributable to a fractional share will be settled in cash.
2. No Stockholder Rights. Unless and until such time as Shares are issued in settlement of SARs, Participant shall have no ownership of the Shares allocated to the SARs and shall have no right to vote such Shares, subject to the terms, conditions and restrictions described in the Plan and herein.
3. Dividend Equivalents. Dividends, if any (whether in cash or Shares), shall not be credited to Participant.
4. No Transfer. The SARs and any interest therein shall not be sold, assigned, transferred, pledged, hypothecated or otherwise disposed of.
5. Termination. If Participant’s continuous service to the Company or any of its subsidiaries shall terminate for any reason, all unvested SARs shall be forfeited to the Company forthwith, and all rights of Participant to such SARs shall immediately terminate. Vested SARs shall be treated in accordance with Section 5 of the Plan regarding exercisability of vested Options. In case of any dispute as to whether Termination has occurred, the Committee shall have sole discretion to determine whether such Termination has occurred and the effective date of such Termination.
6. U.S. Tax Consequences. Participant acknowledges that there will be tax consequences upon settlement of the SARs or disposition of the Shares, if any, received in connection therewith, and Participant should consult a tax adviser prior to such settlement or disposition. Applicable minimum withholding taxes shall be satisfied by the Company by withholding the applicable number of Shares otherwise deliverable upon settlement of the SAR in accordance with rules and procedures established by the Committee. There is no tax event upon granting of an SAR. Upon settlement of the SAR, Participant will include in income the fair market value of the Shares subject to the Shares payable in accordance with settlement of the SAR. The included amount will be treated as ordinary income by Participant and will be subject to withholding by the Company. Upon disposition of the Shares, any subsequent increase or decrease in value will be treated as short-term or long-term capital gain or loss, depending on whether the Shares are held greater than one year from the date of settlement.
7. Acknowledgement. The Company and Participant agree that the SARs are granted under and governed by the Notice, this Agreement and the provisions of the Plan. Participant: (i) acknowledges receipt of a copy of the Plan and the Plan prospectus, (ii) represents that Participant has carefully read and is familiar with their provisions, and (iii) hereby accepts the SARs subject to all of the terms and conditions set forth herein and those set forth in the Plan and the Notice.
8. Entire Agreement; Enforcement of Rights. This Agreement, the Plan and the Notice constitute the entire agreement and understanding of the parties relating to the subject matter herein and supersede all prior discussions between them. Any prior agreements, commitments or negotiations concerning the purchase of the
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Shares hereunder are superseded. No modification of or amendment to this Agreement, nor any waiver of any rights under this Agreement, shall be effective unless in writing and signed by the parties to this Agreement. The failure by either party to enforce any rights under this Agreement shall not be construed as a waiver of any rights of such party.
9. Compliance with Laws and Regulations. The issuance of Shares will be subject to and conditioned upon compliance by the Company and Participant with all applicable state and federal laws and regulations and with all applicable requirements of any stock exchange or automated quotation system on which the Company’s Common Stock may be listed or quoted at the time of such issuance or transfer.
10. Governing Law; Severability. If one or more provisions of this Agreement are held to be unenforceable under applicable law, the parties agree to renegotiate such provision in good faith. In the event that the parties cannot reach a mutually agreeable and enforceable replacement for such provision, then (i) such provision shall be excluded from this Agreement, (ii) the balance of this Agreement shall be interpreted as if such provision were so excluded and (iii) the balance of this Agreement shall be enforceable in accordance with its terms. This Agreement and all acts and transactions pursuant hereto and the rights and obligations of the parties hereto shall be governed, construed and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of California, without giving effect to principles of conflicts of law.
11. No Rights as Employee, Director or Consultant. Nothing in this Agreement shall affect in any manner whatsoever the right or power of the Company, or a Parent or Subsidiary of the Company, to terminate Purchaser’s employment or consulting relationship, for any reason, with or without cause.
By your signature and the signature of the Company’s representative on the Notice, Participant and the Company agree that this SAR is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of the Plan, the Notice and this Agreement. Participant has reviewed the Plan, the Notice and this Agreement in their entirety, has had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Agreement, and fully understands all provisions of the Plan, the Notice and this Agreement. Participant hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the Committee upon any questions relating to the Plan, the Notice and this Agreement. Participant further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in Participant’s residence address.
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NEXSAN CORPORATION
2011 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN
NOTICE OF RESTRICTED STOCK AWARD
GRANT NUMBER:
Unless otherwise defined herein, the terms defined in the Company’s 2011 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) shall have the same meanings in this Notice of Restricted Stock Award (the “Notice”).
Name:
Address:
You (“Participant”) have been granted an award of Restricted Shares of Common Stock of Nexsan Corporation (the “Company”) under the Plan subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan, this Notice and the attached Restricted Stock Agreement (the “Restricted Stock Purchase Agreement”).
| Total Number of Restricted Shares Awarded: |
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| Vesting Schedule: |
| Subject to the limitations set forth in this Notice, the Plan and the Restricted Stock Purchase Agreement, the Restricted Shares will vest and the right of repurchase shall lapse, in whole or in part, in accordance with the following schedule: [INSERT VESTING SCHEDULE] |
You understand that your employment or consulting relationship with the Company is for an unspecified duration, can be terminated at any time (i.e., is “at-will”), and that nothing in this Notice, the Restricted Stock Agreement or the Plan changes the at-will nature of that relationship. Participant acknowledges that the vesting of the Restricted Shares pursuant to this Notice is earned only by continuing service as an Employee, Director or Consultant of the Company. You also understand that this Notice is subject to the terms and conditions of both the Restricted Stock Agreement and the Plan, both of which are incorporated herein by reference. You have read both the Restricted Stock Agreement and the Plan. If the Restricted Stock Purchase Agreement is not executed by you within thirty (30) days of the Date of Grant above, then this grant shall be void.
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NEXSAN CORPORATION
2011 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN
RESTRICTED STOCK AGREEMENT
THIS RESTRICTED STOCK AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) is made as of , 20 by and between Nexsan Corporation., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), and (“Participant”) pursuant to the Company’s 2011 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Plan”). Unless otherwise defined herein, the terms defined in the Plan shall have the same meanings in this Agreement.
1. Sale of Stock. Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, on the Purchase Date (as defined below) the Company will issue and sell to Participant, and Participant agrees to purchase from the Company the number of Shares shown on the Notice of Restricted Stock Award at a purchase price of $ per Share. The per Share purchase price of the Shares shall be not less than the par value of the Shares as of the date of the offer of such Shares to the Participant. The term “Shares” refers to the purchased Shares and all securities received in replacement of or in connection with the Shares pursuant to stock dividends or splits, all securities received in replacement of the Shares in a recapitalization, merger, reorganization, exchange or the like, and all new, substituted or additional securities or other properties to which Participant is entitled by reason of Participant’s ownership of the Shares.
2. Time and Place of Purchase. The purchase and sale of the Shares under this Agreement shall occur at the principal office of the Company simultaneously with the execution of this Agreement by the parties, or on such other date as the Company and Participant shall agree (the “Purchase Date”). On the Purchase Date, the Company will issue in Participant’s name a stock certificate representing the Shares to be purchased by Participant against payment of the purchase price therefor by Participant by (a) check made payable to the Company, (b) cancellation of indebtedness of the Company to Participant, (c) Participant’s personal services that the Committee has determined have already been rendered to the Company and have a value not less than aggregate par value of the Shares to be issued Participant, or (d) a combination of the foregoing.
3. Restrictions on Resale. By signing this Agreement, Participant agrees not to sell any Shares acquired pursuant to the Plan and this Agreement at a time when applicable laws, regulations or Company or underwriter trading policies prohibit exercise or sale. This restriction will apply as long as Participant is providing service to the Company or a Subsidiary of the Company.
3.1 Repurchase Right on Termination Other Than for Cause. For the purposes of this Agreement, a “Repurchase Event” shall mean an occurrence of one of the following:
(i) termination of Participant’s service, whether voluntary or involuntary and with or without cause;
(ii) resignation, retirement or death of Participant; or
(iii) any attempted transfer by Participant of the Shares, or any interest therein, in violation of this Agreement.
Upon the occurrence of a Repurchase Event, the Company shall have the right (but not an obligation) to purchase the Shares of Participant at a price equal to the Purchase Price per Share (the “Repurchase Right”). The Repurchase Right shall lapse in accordance with the vesting schedule set forth in the Notice
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of Restricted Stock Award. For purposes of this Agreement, “Unvested Shares” means Stock pursuant to which the Company’s Repurchase Right has not lapsed.
3.2 Exercise of Repurchase Right. Unless the Company provides written notice to Participant within 90 days from the date of termination of Participant’s service to the Company that the Company does not intend to exercise its Repurchase Right with respect to some or all of the Unvested Shares, the Repurchase Right shall be deemed automatically exercised by the Company as of the 90th day following such termination, provided that the Company may notify Participant that it is exercising its Repurchase Right as of a date prior to such 90th day. Unless Participant is otherwise notified by the Company pursuant to the preceding sentence that the Company does not intend to exercise its Repurchase Right as to some or all of the Unvested Shares, execution of this Agreement by Participant constitutes written notice to Participant of the Company’s intention to exercise its Repurchase Right with respect to all Unvested Shares to which such Repurchase Right applies at the time of Termination of Participant. The Company, at its choice, may satisfy its payment obligation to Participant with respect to exercise of the Repurchase Right by either (A) delivering a check to Participant in the amount of the purchase price for the Unvested Shares being repurchased, or (B) in the event Participant is indebted to the Company, canceling an amount of such indebtedness equal to the purchase price for the Unvested Shares being repurchased, or (C) by a combination of (A) and (B) so that the combined payment and cancellation of indebtedness equals such purchase price. In the event of any deemed automatic exercise of the Repurchase Right by canceling an amount of such indebtedness equal to the purchase price for the Unvested Shares being repurchased, such cancellation of indebtedness shall be deemed automatically to occur as of the 90th day following termination of Participant’s employment or consulting relationship unless the Company otherwise satisfies its payment obligations. As a result of any repurchase of Unvested Shares pursuant to the Repurchase Right, the Company shall become the legal and beneficial owner of the Unvested Shares being repurchased and shall have all rights and interest therein or related thereto, and the Company shall have the right to transfer to its own name the number of Unvested Shares being repurchased by the Company, without further action by Participant.
3.3 Acceptance of Restrictions. Acceptance of the Shares shall constitute Participant’s agreement to such restrictions and the legending of his or her certificates with respect thereto. Notwithstanding such restrictions, however, so long as Participant is the holder of the Shares, or any portion thereof, he or she shall be entitled to receive all dividends declared on and to vote the Shares and to all other rights of a stockholder with respect thereto.
3.4 Non-Transferability of Unvested Shares. In addition to any other limitation on transfer created by applicable securities laws or any other agreement between the Company and Participant, Participant may not transfer any Unvested Shares, or any interest therein, unless consented to in writing by a duly authorized representative of the Company. Any purported transfer is void and of no effect, and no purported transferee thereof will be recognized as a holder of the Unvested Shares for any purpose whatsoever. Should such a transfer purport to occur, the Company may refuse to carry out the transfer on its books, set aside the transfer, or exercise any other legal or equitable remedy. In the event the Company consents to a transfer of Unvested Shares, all transferees of Shares or any interest therein will receive and hold such Shares or interest subject to the provisions of this Agreement, including, insofar as applicable, the Repurchase Right. In the event of any purchase by the Company hereunder where the Shares or interest are held by a transferee, the transferee shall be obligated, if requested by the Company, to transfer the Shares or interest to the Participant for consideration equal to the amount to be paid by the Company hereunder. In the event the Repurchase Right is deemed exercised by the Company, the Company may deem any transferee to have transferred the Shares or interest to Participant prior to their purchase by the Company, and payment of the purchase price by the Company to such transferee shall be deemed to satisfy Participant’s obligation to pay such transferee for such Shares or interest, and also to satisfy the Company’s obligation to pay Participant for such Shares or interest.
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3.5 Assignment. The Repurchase Right may be assigned by the Company in whole or in part to any persons or organization.
4. Restrictive Legends and Stop Transfer Orders.
4.1 Legends. The certificate or certificates representing the Shares shall bear the following legend (as well as any legends required by applicable state and federal corporate and securities laws):
THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE MAY BE TRANSFERRED ONLY IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE TERMS OF AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE COMPANY AND THE STOCKHOLDER, A COPY OF WHICH IS ON FILE WITH THE SECRETARY OF THE COMPANY.
4.2 Stop-Transfer Notices. Participant agrees that, in order to ensure compliance with the restrictions referred to herein, the Company may issue appropriate “stop transfer” instructions to its transfer agent, if any, and that, if the Company transfers its own securities, it may make appropriate notations to the same effect in its own records.
4.3 Refusal to Transfer. The Company shall not be required (i) to transfer on its books any Shares that have been sold or otherwise transferred in violation of any of the provisions of this Agreement or (ii) to treat as the owner or to accord the right to vote or pay dividends to any purchaser or other transferee to whom such Shares shall have been so transferred.
5. No Rights as Employee, Director or Consultant. Nothing in this Agreement shall affect in any manner whatsoever the right or power of the Company, or a Parent or Subsidiary of the Company, to terminate Participant’s service, for any reason, with or without cause.
6. Miscellaneous.
6.1 Acknowledgement. The Company and Participant agree that the Restricted Shares are granted under and governed by the Notice, this Agreement and by the provisions of the Plan (incorporated herein by reference). Participant: (i) acknowledges receipt of a copy of the Plan and the Plan prospectus, (ii) represents that Participant has carefully read and is familiar with their provisions, and (iii) hereby accepts the Restricted Shares subject to all of the terms and conditions set forth herein and those set forth in the Plan and the Notice.
6.2 Entire Agreement; Enforcement of Rights. This Agreement, the Plan and the Notice constitute the entire agreement and understanding of the parties relating to the subject matter herein and supersede all prior discussions between them. Any prior agreements, commitments or negotiations concerning the purchase of the Shares hereunder are superseded. No modification of or amendment to this Agreement, nor any waiver of any rights under this Agreement, shall be effective unless in writing and signed by the parties to this Agreement. The failure by either party to enforce any rights under this Agreement shall not be construed as a waiver of any rights of such party.
6.3 Compliance with Laws and Regulations. The issuance of Shares will be subject to and conditioned upon compliance by the Company and Participant with all applicable state and federal laws and regulations and with all applicable requirements of any stock exchange or automated quotation system on which the Company’s Common Stock may be listed or quoted at the time of such issuance or transfer.
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6.4 Governing Law; Severability. If one or more provisions of this Agreement are held to be unenforceable under applicable law, the parties agree to renegotiate such provision in good faith. In the event that the parties cannot reach a mutually agreeable and enforceable replacement for such provision, then (i) such provision shall be excluded from this Agreement, (ii) the balance of this Agreement shall be interpreted as if such provision were so excluded and (iii) the balance of this Agreement shall be enforceable in accordance with its terms. This Agreement and all acts and transactions pursuant hereto and the rights and obligations of the parties hereto shall be governed, construed and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of California, without giving effect to principles of conflicts of law.
6.5 Construction. This Agreement is the result of negotiations between and has been reviewed by each of the parties hereto and their respective counsel, if any; accordingly, this Agreement shall be deemed to be the product of all of the parties hereto, and no ambiguity shall be construed in favor of or against any one of the parties hereto.
6.6 Notices. Any notice to be given under the terms of the Plan shall be addressed to the Company in care of its principal office, and any notice to be given to the Participant shall be addressed to such Participant at the address maintained by the Company for such person or at such other address as the Participant may specify in writing to the Company.
6.7 Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which shall he deemed an original and all of which together shall constitute one instrument.
6.8 U.S. Tax Consequences. Upon vesting of Shares, Participant will include in taxable income the difference between the fair market value of the vesting Shares, as determined on the date of their vesting, and the price paid for the Shares. This will be treated as ordinary income by Participant and will be subject to withholding by the Company when required by applicable law. In the absence of an Election (defined below), the Company shall withhold a number of vesting Shares with a fair market value (determined on the date of their vesting) equal to the minimum amount the Company is required to withhold for income and employment taxes. If Participant makes an Election, then Participant must, prior to making the Election, pay in cash (or check) to the Company an amount equal to the amount the Company is required to withhold for income and employment taxes.
7. Section 83(b) Election. Participant hereby acknowledges that he or she has been informed that, with respect to the purchase of the Shares, an election may be filed by the Participant with the Internal Revenue Service, within 30 days of the purchase of the Shares, electing pursuant to Section 83(b) of the Code to be taxed currently on any difference between the purchase price of the Shares and their Fair Market Value on the date of purchase (the “Election”). Making the Election will result in recognition of taxable income to the Participant on the date of purchase, measured by the excess, if any, of the Fair Market Value of the Shares over the purchase price for the Shares. Absent such an Election, taxable income will be measured and recognized by Participant at the time or times on which the Company’s Repurchase Right lapses. Participant is strongly encouraged to seek the advice of his or her own tax consultants in connection with the purchase of the Shares and the advisability of filing of the Election. PARTICIPANT ACKNOWLEDGES THAT IT IS SOLELY PARTICIPANT’S RESPONSIBILITY, AND NOT THE COMPANY’S RESPONSIBILITY, TO TIMELY FILE THE ELECTION UNDER SECTION 83(b) OF THE CODE, EVEN IF PARTICIPANT REQUESTS THE COMPANY, OR ITS REPRESENTATIVE, TO MAKE THIS FILING ON PARTICIPANT’S BEHALF.
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The parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first set forth above.
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RECEIPT
Nexsan Corporation. hereby acknowledges receipt of (check as applicable):
o A check in the amount of $
o The cancellation of indebtedness in the amount of $
given by as consideration for Certificate No. - for shares of Common Stock of Nexsan Corporation
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RECEIPT AND CONSENT
The undersigned Participant hereby acknowledges receipt of a photocopy of Certificate No. - for shares of Common Stock of Nexsan Corporation (the “Company”).
The undersigned further acknowledges that the Secretary of the Company, or his or her designee, is acting as escrow holder pursuant to the Restricted Stock Agreement that Participant has previously entered into with the Company. As escrow holder, the Secretary of the Company, or his or her designee, holds the original of the aforementioned certificate issued in the undersigned’s name. To facilitate any transfer of Shares to the Company pursuant to the Restricted Stock Agreement, Participant has executed the attached Assignment Separate from Certificate.
Dated: , 20
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STOCK POWER AND ASSIGNMENT
SEPARATE FROM STOCK CERTIFICATE
FOR VALUE RECEIVED and pursuant to that certain Restricted Stock Agreement dated as of , , [COMPLETE AT THE TIME OF PURCHASE] (the “Agreement”), the undersigned Participant hereby sells, assigns and transfers unto , shares of the Common Stock $0.001, par value per share, of Nexsan Corporation, a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), standing in the undersigned’s name on the books of the Company represented by Certificate No(s). [COMPLETE AT THE TIME OF PURCHASE] delivered herewith, and does hereby irrevocably constitute and appoint the Secretary of the Company as the undersigned’s attorney-in-fact, with full power of substitution, to transfer said stock on the books of the Company. THIS ASSIGNMENT MAY ONLY BE USED AS AUTHORIZED BY THE AGREEMENT AND ANY EXHIBITS THERETO.
Dated: ,
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Instructions to Participant: Please do not fill in any blanks other than the signature line. The purpose of this document is to enable the Company and/or its assignee(s) to acquire the shares upon exercise of its “Repurchase Right” set forth in the Agreement without requiring additional action by the Participant.
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NEXSAN CORPORATION
2011 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN
NOTICE OF STOCK BONUS AWARD
GRANT NUMBER:
Unless otherwise defined herein, the terms defined in the Nexsan Corporation (the “Company”) 2011 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) shall have the same meanings in this Notice of Stock Bonus Award (the “Notice”).
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You (“Participant”) have been granted an award of Shares under the Plan subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan, this Notice, and the attached Stock Bonus Award Agreement (the “Stock Bonus Agreement”) to the Plan.
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| Expiration Date: | The date on which all the Shares granted hereunder become vested, with earlier expiration upon the Termination Date. |
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| Vesting Schedule: | Subject to the limitations set forth in this Notice, the Plan and the Stock Bonus Agreement, the Shares will vest in accordance with the following schedule: [INSERT VESTING SCHEDULE] |
You understand that your employment or consulting relationship or service with the Company is for an unspecified duration, can be terminated at any time (i.e., is “at-will”), and that nothing in this Notice, the Stock Bonus Agreement or the Plan changes the at-will nature of that relationship. You acknowledge that the vesting of the Shares pursuant to this Notice is earned only by continuing service as an Employee, Director or Consultant of the Company (to the vesting applies). Participant also understands that this Notice is subject to the terms and conditions of both the Stock Bonus Agreement and the Plan, both of which are incorporated herein by reference. Participant has read both the Stock Bonus Agreement and the Plan.
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NEXSAN CORPORATION
STOCK BONUS AWARD AGREEMENT
NEXSAN CORPORATION 2011 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN
Unless otherwise defined herein, the terms defined in the Nexsan Corporation (the “Company”) 2011 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) shall have the same defined meanings in this Stock Bonus Agreement (the “Agreement”).
You have been granted a Stock Bonus Award (“Stock Bonus Award”) subject to the terms, restrictions and conditions of the Plan, the Notice of Stock Bonus Award (the “Notice”) and this Agreement.
1. Issuance. Stock Bonus Awards shall be issued in Shares, and the Company’s transfer agent shall record ownership of such Shares in Participant’s name as soon as reasonably practicable.
2. Stockholder Rights. Participant shall have no right to dividends or to vote Shares until Participant is recorded as the holder of such Shares on the stock records of the Company and its transfer agent.
3. No-Transfer. Unvested Shares, and unvested Stock Bonus Awards, and any interest in either shall not be sold, assigned, transferred, pledged, hypothecated, or otherwise disposed of by Participant or any person whose interest derives from Participant’s interest. “Unvested Shares” are Shares that have not yet vested pursuant to the terms of the vesting schedule set forth in the Notice.
4. Termination. Upon Participant’s Termination for any reason, all Unvested Shares shall immediately be forfeited to the Company, and all rights of Participant to such Unvested Shares shall immediately terminate as of Participant’s Termination Date. In case of any dispute as to whether Termination has occurred, the Committee shall have sole discretion to determine whether such Termination has occurred and the effective date of such Termination.
5. U.S. Tax Consequences. Upon vesting of Shares, Participant will include in taxable income the difference between the fair market value of the vesting Shares, as determined on the date of their vesting, and the price paid for the Shares. This will be treated as ordinary income by Participant and will be subject to withholding by the Company when required by applicable law. Before any Shares subject to this Agreement are issued the Company shall withhold a number of Shares with a fair market value (determined on the date the Shares are issued) equal to the minimum amount the Company is required to withhold for income and employment taxes. Upon disposition of the Shares, any subsequent increase or decrease in value will be treated as short-term or long-term capital gain or loss, depending on whether the Shares are held for more than one year from the date of settlement.
6. Acknowledgement. The Company and Participant agree that the Stock Bonus Award is granted under and governed by the Notice, this Agreement and by the provisions of the Plan (incorporated herein by reference). Participant: (i) acknowledges receipt of a copy of the Plan and the Plan prospectus, (ii) represents that Participant has carefully read and is familiar with their provisions, and (iii) hereby accepts the Stock Bonus Award subject to all of the terms and conditions set forth herein and those set forth in the Plan, this Agreement and the Notice.
7. Entire Agreement; Enforcement of Rights. This Agreement, the Plan and the Notice constitute the entire agreement and understanding of the parties relating to the subject matter herein and supersede all prior discussions between them. Any prior agreements, commitments or negotiations concerning the purchase of the Shares hereunder are superseded. No modification of or amendment to this Agreement, nor any waiver of any rights under this Agreement, shall be effective unless in writing and signed by the parties to this Agreement. The failure by either party to enforce any rights under this Agreement shall not be construed as a waiver of any rights of such party.
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8. Compliance with Laws and Regulations. The issuance of Shares will be subject to and conditioned upon compliance by the Company and Participant with all applicable state and federal laws and regulations and with all applicable requirements of any stock exchange or automated quotation system on which the Company’s Common Stock may be listed or quoted at the time of such issuance or transfer.
9. Governing Law; Severability. If one or more provisions of this Agreement are held to be unenforceable under applicable law, the parties agree to renegotiate such provision in good faith. In the event that the parties cannot reach a mutually agreeable and enforceable replacement for such provision, then (i) such provision shall be excluded from this Agreement, (ii) the balance of this Agreement shall be interpreted as if such provision were so excluded and (iii) the balance of this Agreement shall be enforceable in accordance with its terms. This Agreement and all acts and transactions pursuant hereto and the rights and obligations of the parties hereto shall be governed, construed and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of California, without giving effect to principles of conflicts of law.
10. No Rights as Employee, Director or Consultant. Nothing in this Agreement shall affect in any manner whatsoever the right or power of the Company, or a Parent or Subsidiary of the Company, to terminate Purchaser’s service, for any reason, with or without cause.
By your signature and the signature of the Company’s representative on the Notice, Participant and the Company agree that this Stock Bonus Award is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of the Plan, the Notice and this Agreement. Participant has reviewed the Plan, the Notice and this Agreement in their entirety, has had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Agreement, and fully understands all provisions of the Plan, the Notice and this Agreement. Participant hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the Committee upon any questions relating to the Plan, the Notice and this Agreement. Participant further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in Participant’s residence address.
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NEXSAN CORPORATION
2011 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN
NOTICE OF PERFORMANCE SHARES AWARD
GRANT NUMBER:
Unless otherwise defined herein, the terms defined in the Nexsan Corporation (the “Company”) 2011 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) shall have the same meanings in this Notice of Performance Shares Award (the “Notice”).
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You (“Participant”) have been granted an award of Performance Shares under the Plan subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan, this Notice and the attached Performance Shares Award Agreement (hereinafter “Performance Shares Agreement”).
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You understand that your employment or consulting relationship or service with the Company is for an unspecified duration, can be terminated at any time (i.e., is “at-will”), and that nothing in this Notice, the Performance Shares Agreement or the Plan changes the at-will nature of that relationship. You acknowledge that the vesting pursuant to this Notice is earned only upon the applicable certification of attainment of the requisite Performance Factors enumerated above while still in service as an Employee, Director or Consultant of the Company. You also understand that this Notice is subject to the terms and conditions of both the Performance Shares Award Agreement and the Plan, both of which are incorporated herein by reference. Participant has read both the Performance Shares Agreement and the Plan.
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NEXSAN CORPORATION
PERFORMANCE SHARES AGREEMENT TO THE
NEXSAN CORPORATION 2011 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN
Unless otherwise defined herein, the terms defined in the Nexsan Corporation (the “Company”) 2011 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) shall have the same defined meanings in this Performance Shares Agreement (the “Agreement”).
You have been granted a Performance Shares Award (“Performance Shares Award”) subject to the terms, restrictions and conditions of the Plan, the Notice of Performance Shares Award (“Notice”) and this Agreement.
1. Settlement. Performance Shares shall be settled in Shares and the Company’s transfer agent shall record ownership of such Shares in Participant’s name as soon as reasonably practicable after achievement of the Performance Factors enumerated in the Notice.
2. Stockholder Rights. Participant shall have no right to dividends or to vote Shares until Participant is recorded as the holder of such Shares on the stock records of the Company and its transfer agent.
3. No-Transfer. Participant’s interest in this Performance Shares Award shall not be sold, assigned, transferred, pledged, hypothecated, or otherwise disposed of.
4. Termination. Upon Participant’s Termination for any reason, all of Participant’s rights under the Plan, this Agreement and the Notice in respect of this Award shall immediately terminate. In case of any dispute as to whether Termination has occurred, the Committee shall have sole discretion to determine whether such Termination has occurred and the effective date of such Termination.
5. U.S. Tax Consequences. Participant acknowledges that there will be tax consequences upon issuance of the Shares, and Participant should consult a tax adviser regarding Participant’s tax obligations prior to such settlement or disposition. Upon vesting of the Shares, Participant will include in income the fair market value of the Shares. The included amount will be treated as ordinary income by Participant and will be subject to withholding by the Company when required by applicable law. Before any Shares subject to this Agreement are issued the Company shall withhold a number of Shares with a fair market value (determined on the date the Shares are issued) equal to the minimum amount the Company is required to withhold for income and employment taxes. Upon disposition of the Shares, any subsequent increase or decrease in value will be treated as short-term or long-term capital gain or loss, depending on whether the Shares are held for more than one year from the date of issuance.
6. Acknowledgement. The Company and Participant agree that the Performance Shares Award is granted under and governed by the Notice, this Agreement and by the provisions of the Plan (incorporated herein by reference). Participant: (i) acknowledges receipt of a copy of the Plan and the Plan prospectus, (ii) represents that Participant has carefully read and is familiar with their provisions, and (iii) hereby accepts the Performance Shares Award subject to all of the terms and conditions set forth herein and those set forth in the Plan, this Agreement and the Notice.
7. Entire Agreement; Enforcement of Rights. This Agreement, the Plan and the Notice constitute the entire agreement and understanding of the parties relating to the subject matter herein and supersede all prior discussions between them. Any prior agreements, commitments or negotiations concerning the purchase of the Shares hereunder are superseded. No modification of or amendment to this Agreement, nor any waiver of any rights under this Agreement, shall be effective unless in writing and signed by the parties to this Agreement. The failure by either party to enforce any rights under this Agreement shall not be construed as a waiver of any rights of such party.
8. Compliance with Laws and Regulations. The issuance of Shares will be subject to and conditioned upon compliance by the Company and Participant with all applicable state and federal laws and regulations and with all applicable requirements of any stock exchange or automated quotation system on which the Company’s Common Stock may be listed or quoted at the time of such issuance or transfer.
9. Governing Law; Severability. If one or more provisions of this Agreement are held to be unenforceable under applicable law, the parties agree to renegotiate such provision in good faith. In the event that the parties cannot reach a mutually agreeable and enforceable replacement for such provision, then (i) such provision shall be excluded from this Agreement, (ii) the balance of this Agreement shall be interpreted as if such provision were so excluded and (iii) the balance of this Agreement shall be enforceable in accordance with its terms. This Agreement and all acts and transactions pursuant hereto and the rights and obligations of the parties hereto shall be governed, construed and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of California, without giving effect to principles of conflicts of law.
10. No Rights as Employee, Director or Consultant. Nothing in this Agreement shall affect in any manner whatsoever the right or power of the Company, or a Parent or Subsidiary of the Company, to terminate Purchaser’s service, for any reason, with or without cause.
By your signature and the signature of the Company’s representative on the Notice, Participant and the Company agree that this Performance Shares Award is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of the Plan, the Notice and this Agreement. Participant has reviewed the Plan, the Notice and this Agreement in their entirety, has had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Agreement, and fully understands all provisions of the Plan, the Notice and this Agreement. Participant hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the Committee upon any questions relating to the Plan, the Notice and this Agreement. Participant further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in Participant’s residence address.
