What is the main purpose of the stock option award granted to Jeffrey Clarke?

The award is intended to recognize Mr. Clarke's leadership in executing Dell's strategy, incentivize his continued contributions to long-term shareholder value creation, and promote his ongoing service with the company.

What are the performance metrics that determine the vesting of Mr. Clarke's stock options?

The vesting of the award is dependent on the achievement of two key performance criteria: a company market capitalization goal and a company free cash flow goal, as certified by the Compensation Committee. Both goals must be met for the award to vest.

When will Mr. Clarke's stock options vest, and are there any exceptions?

Vesting is contingent upon Mr. Clarke's continued employment with Dell through March 15, 2031. However, vesting can be accelerated in the event of his termination due to death or disability, or under specific spousal disability circumstances. If Mr. Clarke retires or resigns before vesting, the entire award will be forfeited.

What is the value of this stock option award?

The grant date fair value of the stock option award is approximately $132.4 million. This is based on the option to purchase 2,500,000 shares at an exercise price of $141.77 per share.

DELL 8-K: Leadership Changes

Summary

Dell Technologies Inc. (DELL) has filed an 8-K report on October 1, 2025, disclosing a significant one-time performance-based stock option award granted to Chief Operating Officer and Vice Chairman, Jeffrey Clarke. This award, valued at approximately $132.4 million, consists of options to purchase 2.5 million shares of Class C common stock at an exercise price of $141.77 per share. The primary purpose of this award is to recognize Mr. Clarke's leadership and to incentivize his continued dedication to Dell's strategic objectives and long-term shareholder value creation. The performance criteria for the award are tied to achieving specific company market capitalization and free cash flow targets, with a performance period extending until January 31, 2031. Vesting is contingent upon continued employment through March 15, 2031, with provisions for accelerated vesting under specific circumstances like death or disability.

Key Highlights

1Grant of a one-time performance-based stock option award to COO and Vice Chairman, Jeffrey Clarke.
2Award comprises 2,500,000 stock options for Class C common stock with a 10-year term.
3Exercise price set at $141.77 per share, reflecting the closing price on September 30, 2025.
4Grant date fair value of the award is approximately $132.4 million.
5Vesting is contingent upon achieving specified company market capitalization and free cash flow performance goals.
6Performance period for the award concludes on January 31, 2031.
7Continued employment through March 15, 2031, is required for full vesting, with exceptions for death or disability.

Dell Technologies Inc. 8-K Report, Executive Changes (Oct 2, 2025)

Summary

Key Highlights

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