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SYNOPSYS INC 8-K Report, Material Agreement (Sep 12, 2006)

Filed September 12, 2006For Securities:SNPS

Summary

This 8-K filing from Synopsys, Inc. (SNPS) reports on two primary events occurring around late August and early September 2006. Firstly, the company executed a second amendment to its Sunnyvale, California office lease, extending the term by five years through October 31, 2012. This extension signals continued operational presence and potential for growth in that location. Secondly, an amendment to a consulting agreement with A. Richard Newton, a member of the Board of Directors and Dean of UC Berkeley's College of Engineering, was finalized. This amendment reduces Dr. Newton's annual compensation from $180,000 to $100,000. The reduction is attributed to anticipated increased demands on Dr. Newton's time due to his role at UC Berkeley, suggesting a recalibration of external advisory support.

Key Highlights

  • 1Synopsys extended its lease for Sunnyvale, California offices for an additional five years, through October 31, 2012.
  • 2A consulting agreement with Board member A. Richard Newton was amended.
  • 3Dr. Newton's annual consulting compensation was reduced from $180,000 to $100,000.
  • 4The compensation reduction is due to anticipated increased duties for Dr. Newton at UC Berkeley.
  • 5Synopsys's Board of Directors amended and restated the company's Bylaws on September 6, 2006.
  • 6Key changes to the Bylaws include clarifying the separation of Chairman and CEO roles, detailing officer duties, enabling electronic meeting notices, and providing flexibility in board size determination.

Frequently Asked Questions

The extension of the lease for Synopsys's Sunnyvale offices through October 2012 indicates the company's commitment to maintaining its presence in this location. For investors, this suggests stability in operational footprint and potentially supports continued business activities and growth plans tied to this facility.

The compensation for A. Richard Newton, a Board member and academic, was reduced primarily because his increased responsibilities as Dean of UC Berkeley's College of Engineering are expected to limit the time he can dedicate to Synopsys. This adjustment reflects a pragmatic approach to managing external advisory resources based on availability.

The amended and restated Bylaws clarify that the Chairman of the Board and CEO roles can be held by separate individuals, provide more detailed officer duties, allow for electronic notice of meetings, and grant the Board flexibility in determining its size. These changes aim to improve corporate governance and operational efficiency.

The reduction is primarily attributed to Dr. Newton's external time constraints rather than a change in Synopsys's strategy. The consulting agreement continues, albeit with adjusted compensation reflecting his availability. The focus on long-term technology strategy and academic partnerships remains.