def14a
UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION
PROXY STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 14(a) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Filed by the Registrant þ
Filed by a Party other than the Registrant o
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Preliminary Proxy Statement |
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Confidential, for Use of the Commission Only (as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2)) |
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Definitive Proxy Statement |
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Definitive Additional Materials |
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Soliciting Material under § 240.14a-12. |
HOME BANCSHARES, INC.
(Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter)
(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the Registrant)
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
HOME BANCSHARES, INC.
719 Harkrider Street, Suite 100
Conway, Arkansas 72032
(501) 328-4656
Internet Site: www.homebancshares.com
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
To Be Held on May 9, 2007
The Annual Meeting of Shareholders of Home BancShares, Inc. (the Company) will be held on
May 9, 2007, at 6:30 p.m. (CDT) at the New Life Church, located at 633 S. Country Club, Conway,
Arkansas, for the following purposes:
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To elect twelve directors for a term of one year. |
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To approve an amendment to the Companys Restated Articles of
Incorporation, as amended, to increase the number of authorized shares
of common stock from 25,000,000 to 50,000,000. |
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To approve an amendment to the Companys 2006 Stock Option and
Performance Incentive Plan to increase the number of shares reserved
for issuance under such plan to 1,500,000. |
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To ratify the appointment of BKD, LLP as the Companys independent
registered public accounting firm for the next fiscal year. |
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To transact such other business as may properly come before the
meeting or any adjournments thereof. |
Only shareholders of record on March 23, 2007, will be entitled to vote at the meeting or any
adjournments thereof. A list of shareholders will be available for inspection at the office of the
Company at 719 Harkrider, Suite 100, Conway, Arkansas, 72032, beginning two business days after the
date of this notice and continuing through the meeting. The stock transfer books will not be
closed.
The 2006 Annual Report to Shareholders is included in this publication.
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By Order of the Board of Directors |
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C. RANDALL SIMS |
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Secretary |
Conway, Arkansas
March 30, 2007
YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT
PLEASE EXECUTE YOUR PROXY WITHOUT DELAY
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HOW TO VOTE IF YOU ARE A SHAREHOLDER OF RECORD
Your vote is important. You can save the Company the expense of a second mailing by voting
promptly. Shareholders of record can vote by telephone, on the Internet, by mail or by attending
the Meeting and voting by ballot as described below. (Please note: if you are a beneficial owner
of shares held in the name of a bank, broker or other holder, please refer to your proxy card or
the information forwarded by your bank, broker or other holder of record to see which options are
available to you.)
The Internet and telephone voting procedures are designed to authenticate shareholders by use
of a control number and to allow you to confirm that your instructions have been properly recorded.
If you vote by telephone or on the Internet, you do not need to return your proxy card. Telephone
and Internet voting facilities for shareholders of record will be available 24 hours a day and will
close at 1:00 a.m. on May 9, 2007.
VOTE BY TELEPHONE
You can vote by calling the toll-free telephone number on your proxy card. Easy-to-follow
voice prompts allow you to vote your shares and confirm that your instructions have been properly
recorded.
VOTE ON THE INTERNET
You also can choose to vote on the Internet. The website for Internet voting is
www.investorvote.com. As with the telephone voting, you can confirm that your
instructions have been properly recorded. If you vote on the Internet, you can also request
electronic delivery of future proxy materials.
VOTE BY MAIL
If you choose to vote by mail, simply mark your proxy, date and sign it, and return it to
Computershare in the postage-paid envelope provided. If the envelope is missing, please mail your
completed proxy card to Home BancShares, Inc., c/o Computershare, P. O. Box 43101, Providence,
Rhode Island 02940-5067.
VOTING AT THE ANNUAL MEETING
The method by which you vote will not limit your right to vote at the Annual Meeting if you
decide to attend in person. If your shares are held in the name of a bank, broker or other holder
of record, you must obtain a legal proxy, executed in your favor, from the holder of record to be
able to vote at the Meeting.
All shares that have been properly voted and not revoked will be voted at the Annual Meeting.
If you sign and return your proxy card but do not give voting instructions, the shares represented
by that proxy will be voted as recommended by the Board of Directors.
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HOME BANCSHARES, INC.
719 Harkrider Street, Suite 100
Conway, Arkansas 72032
(501) 328-4656
Internet Site: www.homebancshares.com
PROXY STATEMENT
This Proxy Statement and the accompanying proxy card are being mailed in connection with
the solicitation of proxies by the Board of Directors (the Board) of Home BancShares, Inc. (the
Company) for use at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders. This Proxy Statement and the
accompanying proxy card were first mailed to shareholders of the
Company on or about March 30, 2007.
This introductory section is a summary of selected information from this Proxy Statement and
may not contain all of the information that is important to you. To better understand the nominees
being solicited for directors and the proposals that are submitted for a vote, you should carefully
read this entire document and other documents to which we refer.
The proxies being solicited by this Proxy Statement are being solicited by the Company. The
expense of soliciting proxies, including the cost of preparing, assembling and mailing the material
submitted with this Proxy Statement, will be paid by the Company. The Company will also reimburse
brokerage firms, banks, trustees, nominees and other persons for the expense of forwarding proxy
material to beneficial owners of shares held by them of record. Solicitations of proxies may be
made personally or by telephone or telegraphic communications, by directors, officers and regular
employees, who will not receive any additional compensation in respect of such solicitations.
ABOUT THE ANNUAL MEETING
When and Where Is the Annual Meeting?
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Date:
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Wednesday, May 9, 2007 |
Time:
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6:30 p.m., Central Daylight Time |
Location:
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New Life Church, 633 S. Country Club, Conway, Arkansas |
What Is the Purpose of the Annual Meeting?
At our Annual Meeting, shareholders will act upon matters outlined in the accompanying Notice
of Annual Meeting. In addition, our management will report on the performance of the Company
during calendar year 2006.
Who Is Entitled to Vote?
Only shareholders of record at the close of business on the record date, March 23, 2007, are
entitled to receive the Notice of Annual Meeting and to vote the shares of common stock that they
held on that date at the Meeting or at any postponement or adjournment of the Meeting. Each outstanding
share entitles its holder to cast one vote on each matter to be voted on.
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Who Can Attend the Meeting?
All shareholders as of the record date, or their duly appointed proxies, may attend the
Meeting, and each may be accompanied by one guest. Seating is limited and will be on a first-come,
first-served basis. Registration will begin at 5:30 p.m., and seating will be available at
approximately 6:00 p.m.
No cameras, electronic devices, large bags, briefcases or packages
will be permitted at the Meeting.
Please note that if you hold your shares in street name (that is, through a broker or other
nominee), you will need to bring a copy of a brokerage statement reflecting your stock ownership as
of the record date and check in at the registration desk at the Meeting.
What Constitutes a Quorum?
The presence at the Meeting, in person or by proxy, of the holders of a majority of the shares
of common stock outstanding on the record date will constitute a quorum, permitting the Company to
conduct its business. As of the record date, 17,221,938 shares of common stock of the Company were
outstanding. Proxies received, but marked as abstentions and broker non-votes, will be included in
the calculation of the number of shares considered to be present at the Meeting.
Can a Shareholder Nominate a Director?
The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee of the Board of Directors will consider a
candidate properly and timely recommended for directorship by a shareholder or group of
shareholders of the Company. The recommendation must be submitted by one or more shareholders that
have beneficially owned, individually or as a group, 2% or more of the outstanding common stock for
at least one year as of the date the recommendation is submitted. Shareholder recommendations must
be submitted to the Secretary of the Company in writing via certified U.S. mail not less than 120
days prior to the first anniversary of the date of the Proxy Statement relating to the Companys
previous Annual Meeting. Recommendations must be addressed as follows:
Home BancShares, Inc.
Attn: Corporate Secretary
P.O. Box 966
Conway, Arkansas 72033
DIRECTOR CANDIDATE RECOMMENDATION
Generally, candidates for a director position should possess:
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relevant business and financial expertise and experience,
including an understanding of fundamental financial statements; |
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the highest character and integrity and a reputation for
working constructively with others; |
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sufficient time to devote to meetings and consultation on
Board matters; and |
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freedom from conflicts of interest that would interfere
with their performance as a director. |
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The full text of our Policy Regarding Director Recommendations by Stockholders and
Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee Directorship Guidelines and Selection Policy are
published on our website at www.homebancshares.com and can be found under the caption Investor
Relations/Corporate Profile/Governance Documents.
How Can I Communicate Directly with the Board?
Shareholder communications to the Board of Directors, any committee of the Board of Directors,
or any individual director must be sent in writing via certified U.S. mail to the Corporate
Secretary at the following address:
Home BancShares, Inc.
Attn: Corporate Secretary
P.O. Box 966
Conway, Arkansas 72033
Our Stockholder Communications Policy is published on the Companys website at
www.homebancshares.com and can be found under the caption Investor Relations/Corporate
Profile/Governance Documents.
How Do I Vote?
The enclosed proxy card indicates the number of shares you own. There are four ways to vote:
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By Internet at www.investorvote.com; we encourage
you to vote this way. |
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By toll-free telephone at the number shown on your proxy card. |
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By completing and mailing your proxy card. |
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By written ballot at the Meeting. |
If you vote by Internet or telephone, your vote must be received by 1:00 a.m. on
May 9, 2007. Your shares will be voted as you indicate. If you do not indicate your voting
preferences, C. Randall Sims and Randy Mayor will vote your shares FOR Proposals 1, 2, 3 and 4.
If you Vote by Telephone or on the Internet, You Do NOT Need to Return Your Proxy
Card.
If you complete and properly sign the accompanying proxy card and return it to the Company, or
tender your vote via telephone or the Internet, it will be voted as you direct. If you attend the
Meeting, you may deliver your completed proxy card in person. A proxy duly executed and returned
by a shareholder, and not revoked prior to or at the Meeting, will be voted in accordance with the
shareholders instructions on such proxy.
If your shares are held in street name, you will need to contact your broker or other
nominee to determine whether you will be able to vote by telephone or Internet.
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What Are the Boards Recommendations?
Unless you give other instructions on your proxy card, the persons named as proxy holders on
the proxy card will vote in accordance with the recommendations of the Board of Directors. The
Boards recommendation is set forth together with each proposal in this Proxy Statement. In
summary, the Board recommends a vote:
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For the election of the nominated slate of directors (see
pages 9-35). |
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For the approval of an amendment to the Companys Restated
Articles of Incorporation, as amended, to increase the authorized shares
of common stock from 25,000,000 to 50,000,000 (see pages 36-37). |
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For the approval of an amendment to the Companys 2006
Stock Option and Performance Incentive Plan to increase the number of
shares reserved for issuance under such plan to 1,500,000 (see pages 37-41). |
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For the ratification of the appointment of BKD, LLP as the
Companys independent registered public accounting firm (see pages 42-44). |
As of the date of this Proxy Statement, the Board knows of no other business that may properly
be, or is likely to be, brought before the Annual Meeting. With respect to any other matter that
properly comes before the Meeting, the proxy holders will vote as recommended by the Board of
Directors or, if no recommendation is given, at their own discretion.
What Vote Is Required to Approve Each Proposal?
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Election of Directors. The affirmative vote of a plurality of the
votes cast in person or by proxy at the Meeting is required for the election of
directors. A properly executed proxy marked WITHHOLD AUTHORITY with respect to
the election of one or more of the directors will not be voted with respect to the
director or directors indicated, although it will be counted for purposes of
determining whether there is a quorum. |
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Other Proposals. For each other proposal, the affirmative vote of a
majority of the votes cast in person or by proxy at the Annual Meeting, assuming a
quorum is present, will be required for approval. A properly executed proxy marked
ABSTAIN with respect to any such matter will not be voted, although it will be
counted for purposes of determining whether there is a quorum. Accordingly, an
abstention will have no effect on the outcome of the vote. |
If you hold shares in street name through a broker or other nominee, your broker or nominee
may not be permitted to exercise voting discretion with respect to some of the matters to be acted
upon. Thus, if you do not give your broker or nominee specific instructions, your shares may not
be voted on those matters and will not be counted in determining the number of shares necessary for
approval. Shares represented by such broker non-votes will, however, be counted in determining
whether there is a quorum.
The authorized common stock of the Company consists of 25,000,000 shares at $0.01 par value.
As of the close of business on March 23, 2007, there were 17,221,938 shares eligible to vote.
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Can I Change My Vote After I Return the Proxy Card?
Yes. Even after you have submitted your proxy, you may change your vote at any time before
the proxy is exercised by filing with the Secretary of the Company either a notice of revocation or
a duly executed proxy bearing a later date. The powers of the proxy holders will be suspended if
you attend the Meeting in person and so request, although attendance at the Meeting will not by
itself revoke a previously granted proxy.
How Many Directors Are There?
Our Restated Articles of Incorporation provide that the number of directors shall not be less
than two nor more than fifteen, with the exact number to be fixed by the shareholders or the Board.
Currently, we have twelve directors.
How Long Do Directors Serve?
Our Bylaws provide that the directors shall serve a term of one year and until their
successors are duly elected and qualified. The shareholders of the Company elect successors for
directors whose terms have expired at the Annual Meeting. The Board elects members to fill new
membership positions and vacancies in unexpired terms on the Board.
Do the Shareholders Elect the Executive Officers?
No. Executive officers are elected by the Board and hold office until their successors are
elected and qualified or until the earlier of their death, retirement, resignation or removal.
You Should Carefully Read this Proxy Statement in its Entirety.
[Remainder of page intentionally left blank.]
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PROPOSAL ONE ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
Our Restated Articles of Incorporation provide that the number of directors shall not be less
than two nor more than fifteen, with the exact number to be fixed by the shareholders or the Board.
The Board of Directors proposes that the nominees for directors described below be re-elected for
a new term of one year and until their successors are duly elected and qualified. All nominees are
currently serving as directors.
Each of the nominees has consented to serve the term for which he is nominated. If any
nominee becomes unavailable for election, which is not anticipated, the directors proxies will
vote for the election of such other person as the Board may nominate, unless the Board resolves to
reduce the number of directors to serve on the Board and thereby reduce the number of directors to
be elected at the meeting.
The Board of Directors Recommends that Shareholders Vote
FOR
Each of the Nominees Listed Herein
DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE COMPANY
The names of the Companys directors and executive officers as of March 23, 2007, and their
respective ages and positions are as follows:
[Table follows on next page.]
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Positions Held |
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Positions Held |
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with Bank Subsidiaries |
John W. Allison
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60 |
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Chairman of the Board and
Chief Executive Officer
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Chairman of the Board, First
State Bank; Director, Community
Bank, Twin City Bank, Bank of
Mountain View, and Marine Bank |
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Ron W. Strother
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President, Chief
Operating Officer, and
Director
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Director, First State Bank,
Community Bank, Twin City Bank,
and Bank of Mountain View |
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Randy E. Mayor
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Chief Financial Officer
and Treasurer
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Director, First State Bank |
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C. Randall Sims
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Director and Secretary
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President, Chief Executive
Officer, and Director, First
State Bank; Director Community
Bank |
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Brian S. Davis
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Director of Financial
Reporting and Investor
Relations Officer |
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Richard H. Ashley
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Vice Chairman of the Board
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Chairman of the Board, Twin City
Bank; Director, Community Bank |
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Dale A. Bruns
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64 |
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Director
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Director, First State Bank and
Twin City Bank |
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Richard A. Buckheim
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63 |
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Director
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Chairman of the Board, Marine Bank |
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Jack E. Engelkes
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57 |
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Director
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Director, First State Bank |
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Frank D. Hickingbotham
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70 |
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Director |
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Herren C. Hickingbotham
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48 |
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Director
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Director, Twin City Bank |
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James G. Hinkle
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Director
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Chairman of the Board, Bank of
Mountain View |
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Alex R. Lieblong
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Director |
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William G. Thompson
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59 |
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Director
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Director, Community Bank |
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Robert F. Birch, Jr.
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President, Chief Executive
Officer, and Director, Twin City
Bank |
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Tracy M. French
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President, Chief Executive
Officer, and Director, Community
Bank |
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Robert Hunter Padgett
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48 |
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President, Chief Executive
Officer, and Director, Marine
Bank |
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Michael L. Waddington
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64 |
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Chief Executive Officer and
Director, Bank of Mountain View |
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NOMINEES FOR DIRECTOR
The twelve director nominees consist of the current twelve members of the Board. Their
experience and qualifications as Board members are as follows:
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John W. Allison
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Director Since 1998 |
John W. Allison is the founder and has been Chairman of the Board of Home BancShares since
1998. He also serves on the Asset/Liability Committee of Home BancShares. Mr. Allison has more
than 23 years of banking experience, including service as Chairman of First National Bank of Conway
from 1983 until 1998, and as a director of First Commercial Corporation from 1985 (when First
Commercial acquired First National Bank of Conway) until 1998. At various times during his tenure
on First Commercials board, Mr. Allison served as the Chairman of that companys Executive
Committee and as Chairman of its Asset Quality Committee. Prior to its sale to Regions Financial
Corporation in 1998, First Commercial was a publicly traded company and the largest bank holding
company headquartered in Arkansas, with approximately $7.3 billion in assets.
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Ron W. Strother
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Director Since 2004 |
Ron W. Strother has been President, Chief Operating Officer, and a director of Home BancShares
since 2004. He also serves as Chairman of the Asset/Liability Committee of Home BancShares. Mr.
Strother has more than 34 years of banking experience, which includes serving as Regional Chief
Executive Officer over Central Arkansas for Arvest Bank Group (Bentonville) from 2000 to 2004,
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Central Bank & Trust Company (Little Rock) from 1996 to
2000, President and Chief Operating Officer of First Commercial Bank (Little Rock) from 1991 to
1994, President of First Commercial Mortgage Company from 1984 to 1987, and President of Commercial
National Mortgage Company from 1981 to 1984. Mr. Strother began his career in 1973 with Commercial
National Bank (Little Rock), which became First Commercial Bank in 1983.
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C. Randall Sims
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Director Since 1998 |
C. Randall Sims has been President and Chief Executive Officer of First State Bank and a
director of Home BancShares since 1998. He has served as Secretary of Home BancShares since 1998.
Prior to joining First State Bank, Mr. Sims was an executive vice president with First National
Bank of Conway. He holds a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock
School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting and business administration from Ouachita
Baptist University in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. He attended the Graduate School of Banking at the
University of Wisconsin and is an honor graduate of the American Bankers Association National
Lending School held at the University of Oklahoma. Mr. Sims currently serves as a Trustee at the
University of Central Arkansas and as Chairman of the Conway Christian School Board.
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Richard H. Ashley
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Director Since 2004 |
Richard H. Ashley has been a director of Home BancShares since 2004 and has served as Vice
Chairman of Home BancShares since 2006. He also serves on the Asset/Liability Committee and the
Compensation Committee of Home BancShares. Mr. Ashley was one of the original stockholders and
organizers of Twin City Bank in 2000. He has served as a director of the bank since 2000 and as
Chairman since 2002. Mr. Ashley is President and owner of the Ashley Company, a privately held
company involved in land development and investment in seven states throughout the United States
since 1978.
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Dale A. Bruns
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Director Since 2004 |
Dale A. Bruns has been a director of Home BancShares since 2004 and a director of First State
Bank since 1998. Mr. Bruns has also served as a director of Twin City Bank since 2000 and
FirsTrust Financial Services since 2004. Mr. Bruns is the chairman of the compensation committees
for Home BancShares, First State Bank, and Twin City Bank and is a member of the Nominating and
Corporate Governance Committee of Home BancShares. Prior to his service with First State Bank, he
served as a director of the First National Bank of Conway from 1985 to 1998. Mr. Bruns has owned
and operated several McDonalds restaurants located in central Arkansas. He is also the owner of
Central Arkansas Sign Company, Inc. He currently serves on the impact committee for the McDonalds
Great Southern Region and the purchasing committee of the Central Arkansas McDonalds Cooperative,
and is a past member of the McDonalds National Operator advisory board of directors. Mr. Bruns
attended the University of Northern Iowa and the Harvard Business School Program for Management
Development.
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Richard A. Buckheim
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Director Since 2005 |
Richard A. Buckheim has been a director of Home BancShares since 2005. He has also been
appointed to serve on the Compensation Committee of Home BancShares beginning in 2007. Mr.
Buckheim was one of the original organizers of Marine Bank in 1995 and has been active in its
management since the bank opened. Since 2000, he has been Chairman of the Board of the bank and
has served on the banks compensation committee. Mr. Buckheim formerly owned two restaurants in
Key West, Florida. Prior to moving to Key West, he founded and served as President of Buckheim and
Rowland, Inc., a Michigan-based advertising and marketing company with offices in Ann Arbor,
Detroit, New York, New York, and Melbourne, Florida.
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Jack E. Engelkes
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Director Since 2004 |
Jack E. Engelkes has been a director of Home BancShares since 2004 and a director of First
State Bank since 1998. He also serves as Chairman of the Audit Committee and a member of the
Compensation Committee of Home BancShares. From 1995 to 1998, he served as a director of First
National Bank of Conway. Since 1990, Mr. Engelkes has served as managing partner in the accounting
firm of Engelkes, Conner and Davis, Ltd. He became President of the Board of Conway Regional
Health Foundation in 2006. He has also been a director of the Conway Regional Medical Center since
2005 and the Conway Development Corporation since 2000. Mr. Engelkes holds a bachelors degree in
Business and Economics from Hendrix College in Conway.
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Frank D. Hickingbotham
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Director Since 2004 |
Frank D. Hickingbotham has been a director of Home BancShares since 2004. He also serves as a
member of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee of Home BancShares. In 1989, Mr.
Hickingbotham founded FDH Bancshares, which was acquired by First Commercial Corporation in 1995.
Mr. Hickingbotham also founded TCBY Enterprises, Inc., a publicly traded worldwide manufacturer,
franchiser and distributor of frozen yogurt, in 1981, and served as the companys Chairman and
Chief Executive Officer until the company was sold in 2000. Since 2000, he has been the Chairman
and Chief Executive Officer of Hickingbotham Investments, Inc., a privately held diversified
company with interests in banking, real estate, automobile and motorcycle dealerships, and food
service equipment sales and distribution. Mr. Hickingbotham is the father of Home BancShares
director Herren C. Hickingbotham.
12
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Herren C. Hickingbotham
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Director Since 2004 |
Herren C. Hickingbotham has been a director of Home BancShares since 2004 and a director of
Twin City Bank since 2002. He also serves on the Audit Committee of Home BancShares. From 1986 to
2000, Mr. Hickingbotham served as President and Chief Operating Officer of TCBY Enterprises, Inc.,
a publicly traded worldwide manufacturer, franchiser and distributor of frozen yogurt. He served
on the board of directors of TCBY from 1983 to 2000. Since 2000, Mr. Hickingbotham has been a
principal in Hickingbotham Investments, Inc., a privately held diversified company with interests
in banking, real estate, automobile and motorcycle dealerships, and food service equipment sales
and distribution. Mr. Hickingbotham is the son of Home BancShares director Frank D. Hickingbotham.
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James G. Hinkle
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Director Since 2005 |
James G. Hinkle has been a director of Home BancShares since 2005. Mr. Hinkle currently
serves as Chairman of the Bank of Mountain View and as a member of the Asset/Liability Committee of
Home BancShares. He has over 25 years of banking experience. From 1995 to 2005, he served as
President of Mountain View BancShares, Inc., until the companys merger into Home BancShares. He
served as President of the Bank of Mountain View from 1981 to 2005.
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Alex R. Lieblong
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Director Since 2003 |
Alex R. Lieblong has been a director of Home BancShares since 2003. He served as a director
of First State Bank from 1998 to 2002 and has served as an advisory director of First State Bank
since 2002. He also serves as Chairman of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and a
member of the Audit Committee of Home BancShares. Mr. Lieblong became a director of
Lodgian, Inc., a publicly traded owner and operator of hotels, in 2006. He also currently serves
on the board of directors of Ballard Petroleum, a privately held energy company. Since 1997, Mr.
Lieblong has been an owner and general principal in the brokerage firm of Lieblong & Associates,
Inc. Prior to Lieblong & Associates, Inc., he held management positions with Paine Webber, Merrill
Lynch, and E.F. Hutton. Mr. Lieblong was a founder and has been managing partner of Key Colony
Fund, L.P., a hedge fund, since 1998.
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William G. Thompson
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Director Since 2004 |
William G. Thompson has been a director of Home BancShares since 2004 and a director of
Community Bank since 1988. He also serves on the Audit Committee and the Nominating and Corporate
Governance Committee of Home BancShares. Mr. Thompson has over 25 years of banking experience.
From 2002 to 2004, he served as Chairman of the Board of Community Bank. Mr. Thompson owns several
privately held businesses located in Cabot, Arkansas, including Transloading Service Inc., Thompson
Service Inc., and Thompson Sales Inc.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Duties of the Board
The Board of Directors has the responsibility to serve as the trustee for the shareholders.
It also has the responsibility for establishing broad corporate policies and for the overall
performance of the Company. The Board, however, is not involved in day-to-day operating details.
Members of the Board are kept informed of the Companys business through discussion with the Chief
Executive Officer and
other officers, by reviewing analyses and reports sent to them quarterly, and by participating in
Board and Committee meetings.
13
Corporate Governance Guidelines and Policies
We believe that good corporate governance helps ensure that the Company is managed for the
long-term benefit of its shareholders. We continue to review our corporate governance policies and
practices, corporate governance rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission
(the SEC), and the listing standards of the Nasdaq Stock Market on which our common stock is
traded. The Board has adopted various corporate governance guidelines and policies to assist the
Board in the exercise of its responsibilities to the Company and its shareholders. The guidelines
and policies address, among other items, director independence and director qualifications. You
can access and print our corporate governance guidelines and policies, including the charters of
our Audit Committee, Compensation Committee, Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, our
Corporate Code of Ethics for Directors, Executive Officers and Employees and other Company policies
and procedures required by applicable law or regulation, on our website at www.homebancshares.com
under the caption Investor Relations/Corporate Profile/Governance Documents.
Director Independence
Nasdaq rules require that a majority of the directors of Nasdaq-listed companies be
independent. An independent director generally means a person other than an officer or
employee of the listed company or its subsidiaries, or any other individual having a relationship
which, in the opinion of the listed companys board of directors, would interfere with the exercise
of independent judgment in carrying out the responsibilities of a director. Certain categories of
persons are deemed not to be independent under the Nasdaq rules, such as persons employed by the
listed company within the last three years, and persons who have received (or whose immediate
family members have received) payments exceeding a specified amount from the listed company within
the last three years, excluding payments that are not of a disqualifying nature (such as
compensation for board service, payments arising solely from investments in the listed companys
securities, and benefits under a tax-qualified retirement plan). Nasdaq rules impose somewhat more
stringent independence requirements on persons who serve as members of the audit committee of a
listed company.
Of the twelve persons who currently serve on our Board of Directors, we believe that nine are
independent for purposes of Nasdaq rules. Messrs. Allison, Strother, and Sims are not considered
independent because they are officers of Home BancShares. The Board has also determined that no
member of the Audit Committee, Compensation Committee or Nominating and Corporate Governance
Committee has any material relationship with the Company (either directly or indirectly as a
partner, shareholder or officer of an organization that has a relationship with the Company) and
that all members of these committees meet the criteria for independence under the Nasdaq listing
standards.
Code of Ethics
We have adopted a Code of Ethics that applies to all of our directors, officers, and
employees. We believe our Code of Ethics is reasonably designed to deter wrongdoing and to promote
honest and ethical conduct, including the ethical handling of conflicts of interest, full, fair and
accurate disclosure in filings and other public communications made by us, compliance with
applicable laws, prompt internal reporting of ethics violations, and accountability for adherence
to the Code of Ethics. This Code of Ethics is published in its entirety on our website at
www.homebancshares.com under the caption Investor Relations/Corporate Profile/Governance
Documents. We will post on our website any amendment
to this code and any waivers of any provision of this code made for the benefit of any of our
senior executive officers or directors.
14
BOARD MEETINGS AND COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD
The business of the Company is managed under the direction of the Board of Directors, who meet
on a regularly scheduled basis during the calendar year to review significant developments
affecting the Company and to act on matters that require Board approval. Special meetings are also
held when Board action is required on matters arising between regularly scheduled meetings.
All members of the Board are strongly encouraged to attend each meeting of the Board and
meetings of the Board Committees on which they serve, as well as the Annual Meeting. The Board of
Directors held four regularly scheduled meetings and two telephonic meetings during calendar year
2006. During this period all members of the Board participated in at least 75% of all meetings,
including the Annual Meeting. Our Director Attendance Policy is published on our website at
www.homebancshares.com under the caption Investor Relations/Corporate Profile/Governance
Documents.
Our Board of Directors has four standing committees: the Audit Committee, the Compensation
Committee, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and the Asset/Liability Committee.
Committee members are elected annually by the Board and serve until their successors are elected
and qualified or until their earlier resignation or removal.
The following table discloses the Board members who served on each of the Boards committees
and the number of meetings held by each committee during calendar year 2006.
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Nominating |
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and Corporate |
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Audit |
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Compensation |
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Governance |
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Asset/Liability |
John W. Allison |
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X |
Richard H. Ashley |
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X |
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Dale A. Bruns |
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Chair |
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X |
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Jack E. Engelkes |
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Chair |
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Frank D. Hickingbotham |
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X |
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Herren C. Hickingbotham |
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James G. Hinkle |
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X |
Alex R. Lieblong |
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Chair |
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Ron W. Strother |
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Chair |
William G. Thompson |
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Number of Meetings |
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3 |
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3 |
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2 |
On January 19, 2007, the Board voted to appoint Richard A. Buckheim as an additional member of
the Compensation Committee for 2007 and to retain all other committee appointments as shown above
for calendar year 2006.
15
Audit Committee
The Audit Committee assists the Board in fulfilling its oversight responsibility relating to
the integrity of our accounting and financial reporting processes and our financial statements, our
compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, the independent auditors qualifications and
independence, and the performance of our internal audit function and our independent auditors. In
fulfilling its duties, the Audit Committee, among other things:
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prepares the Audit Committee report for inclusion in
the annual proxy statement; |
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appoints, compensates, retains and oversees the independent
auditors; |
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pre-approves all auditing and appropriate non-auditing
services performed by the independent auditor; |
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discusses with the internal and independent auditors the
scope and plans for their respective audits; |
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reviews the results of each quarterly review and annual
audit by the independent auditors; |
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reviews the Companys financial statements and related
disclosures in the Companys quarterly and annual reports prior to
filing with the SEC; |
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reviews the Companys policies with respect to risk
assessment and risk management; |
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reviews the Companys internal controls, the results of the
internal audit program, and the Companys disclosure controls and
procedures and quarterly assessment of such controls and procedures; |
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establishes procedures for handling complaints regarding
accounting, internal accounting controls, and auditing matters,
including procedures for confidential, anonymous submission of concerns
by employees regarding such matters; and |
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reviews the Companys legal and regulatory compliance
programs. |
The Board of Directors has adopted a written charter for the Audit Committee that meets the
applicable standards of the SEC and Nasdaq. A copy of the Audit Committee Charter is published on
our website at www.homebancshares.com under the caption Investor Relations/Corporate
Profile/Governance Documents.
The Audit Committee is comprised of Jack E. Engelkes, Chairman, Herren C. Hickingbotham, Alex
R. Lieblong and William G. Thompson, each of whom served as a member of the Committee during the
entire calendar year of 2006. The Board has determined that each member of the Committee satisfies
the independence requirements of the Nasdaq listing standards, that each member of the Committee is
financially literate, knowledgeable and qualified to review financial statements, and that Mr.
Engelkes has the attributes of an audit committee financial expert as defined by the regulations
of the SEC.
16
Compensation Committee
The Compensation Committee aids the Board in discharging its responsibility with respect to
the compensation of our executive officers and directors. The Compensation Committee is
responsible for evaluating and approving the Companys compensation plans and policies and for
communicating the Companys compensation policies to shareholders in our annual proxy statement.
In fulfilling its duties, the Compensation Committee, among other things:
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reviews and approves corporate goals and objectives
relevant to the compensation of our Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and
Chief Operating Officer (COO); |
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evaluates the performance and determines the annual
compensation of the CEO and COO in accordance with these goals and
objectives; |
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reviews and approves the amounts and terms of the annual
compensation for our other executive officers; |
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reviews and approves employment agreements, severance
agreements or arrangements, retirement arrangements, change in control
agreements/provisions and special or supplemental benefits for the
executive officers; |
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reviews and makes recommendations to the Board with respect
to incentive based compensation plans and equity based plans, and
establishes criteria for and grants awards to participants under such
plans; |
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reviews and recommends to the Board the compensation for
our directors; and |
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reviews and recommends to the Board that the Compensation
Discussion and Analysis be included in the annual proxy statement and
Form 10-K annual report. |
The Board of Directors has adopted a written charter for the Compensation Committee that meets
the applicable standards of the SEC and Nasdaq. The Compensation Committee Charter is published on
our website at www.homebancshares.com under the caption Investor Relations/Corporate
Profile/Governance Documents.
The Compensation Committee is comprised of Dale A. Bruns, Chairman, Richard H. Ashley and Jack
E. Engelkes, each of whom served as a member of the Committee during the entire calendar year of
2006. The Board has determined that each member of the Committee satisfies independence
requirements of the Nasdaq listing standards and Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986, as amended.
The Compensation Committee charter authorizes the Committee to delegate to subcommittees of
the Committee any responsibility the Committee deems necessary or appropriate. The Committee shall
not, however, delegate to a subcommittee any power or authority required by any law, regulation or
listing standard to be exercised by the Committee as a whole. The Committee did not utilize the
services of a subcommittee in 2006.
The CEO provides recommendations to the Committee regarding the form and amount of
compensation paid to executive officers who report directly to him. Additionally, the CEO and COO
regularly attend Committee meetings, other than executive sessions. Traditionally, management has
provided to the Committee historical and prospective breakdowns of primary compensation components
for each executive officer, including internal pay equity analyses.
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Historically, the Committee meets each February to finalize discussion regarding the Companys
performance goals for the previous and current year with respect to performance-based compensation
to be paid to executive officers and to approve its report for the annual proxy statement. These
goals are approved within 90 days of the beginning of the year. Each year in December, the
Committee generally discusses any new compensation issues, the compensation, bonus and incentive
plan award analyses and the engagement of a compensation consultant for annual executive and
director compensation. The Committee also meets in December to:
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review and discuss the recommendations made by the CEO; |
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review the performance of the Company and the individual
officers; |
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review the level to which the Companys performance goals
were attained and approve short-term cash bonus and long-term incentive
awards; and |
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determine the executive officers base salaries for the
following year. |
Management also advises the full Board, including the Committee members, throughout the year
of new issues and developments regarding executive compensation during the year.
Compensation Committee Interlocks And Insider Participation
During 2006, Messrs. Bruns, Ashley, and Engelkes served as members of the Compensation
Committee. None of these three directors during 2006 or at any previous time served as an officer
or employee of Home BancShares or any of our bank subsidiaries. During 2006, none of our executive
officers served as a director or member of the compensation committee (or group performing
equivalent functions) of any other entity for which any of our independent directors served as an
executive officer. See Certain Relationships and Related Transactions for information concerning
transactions during 2006 involving Mr. Ashley.
Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee
The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee develops and maintains the corporate
governance policies of the Company. The Committees responsibilities include, among other things:
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developing and maintaining the Companys corporate
governance policies; |
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identifying, screening and recruiting qualified individuals
to become Board members; |
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determining the composition of the Board and its committees; |
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assisting the Board in assessing the Boards effectiveness; |
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assisting management in preparing the disclosures regarding
the Committees operation to be included in the Companys annual proxy
statement; and |
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reviewing and approving all related party transactions. |
The Board of Directors has adopted a written charter for the Nominating and Corporate
Governance Committee that meets the applicable standards of the SEC and Nasdaq. The Nominating and
Corporate Governance Committee Charter is published on our website at www.homebancshares.com under
the caption Investor Relations/Corporate Profile/Governance Documents.
18
The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, which was formed by the Company in 2006, is
comprised of Alex R. Lieblong, Chairman, Dale A. Bruns, Frank D. Hickingbotham, and William G.
Thompson. The Board has determined that all members of the Committee satisfy independence
requirements of the Nasdaq listing standards. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee
met in March 2007 to select director nominees to be voted on at the Annual Meeting.
Director Candidate Qualifications
The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee Directorship Guidelines and Selection Policy
outlines the qualifications the Committee looks for in a director nominee. Generally, the
candidate should possess:
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relevant business and financial expertise and experience,
including an understanding of fundamental financial statements; |
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the highest character and integrity and a reputation for
working constructively with others; |
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sufficient time to devote to meetings and consultation on
Board matters; and |
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freedom from conflicts of interest that would interfere
with performance as a director. |
More specifically, the Nominating Committee seeks candidates who possess various
qualifications or skills, including leadership experience in business or other relevant fields,
knowledge of the Company and the financial services industry, experience in serving as a director
of another financial institution or public company generally, wisdom, integrity, analytical
ability, familiarity with and participation in the communities served by the Company and its
subsidiaries, commitment to and availability for services as a director, and any other factors the
Committee deems relevant.
Director Nominations Process
After assessing and considering prevailing business conditions of the Company, legal and
listing standard requirements for Board composition, the size and composition of the current Board,
and the skills and experience of current Board members, any of the Chairman, the Nominating
Committee or any Board member may identify the need to add a Board member or to fill a vacancy on
the Board. The Committee identifies qualified director nominees from among persons known to the
members of the Committee, by reputation or otherwise, and through referrals from trusted sources,
including senior management, existing Board members, shareholders and independent consultants hired
for such purpose. The Committee may request that senior officers of the Company assist the
Committee in identifying and assessing prospective candidates who meet the criteria established by
the Board.
The Nominating Committee evaluates candidates based upon the candidates qualifications,
recommendations, or other relevant information, including a personal interview. The Committee
meets to consider and approve the candidates to be presented to the Board. The Committee then
presents its proposed nominees to the full Board. The Board considers the recommendations of the
Committee and approves candidates for nomination.
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The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee Directorship Guidelines and Selection Policy
is published on our website at www.homebancshares.com under the caption Investor
Relations"/Corporate Profile"/Governance Documents.
Asset/Liability Committee
Our Asset/Liability Committee consists of John W. Allison, Richard H. Ashley, James G. Hinkle,
and Ron W. Strother. Mr. Strother serves as Chairman of the Asset/Liability Committee. The
Asset/Liability Committee meets monthly, and is primarily responsible for:
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development and control over the implementation of liquidity
risk and market risk management policies; |
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review of interest rate movements, forecasts, and the
development of the Companys strategy under specific market conditions;
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continued monitoring of the overall asset/liability
structure of our bank subsidiaries to minimize interest rate sensitivity
and liquidity risk. |
REPORT OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE
OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
In accordance with its written charter, which was approved in its current form by the Board of
Directors on January 20, 2006, the Audit Committee assists the Board in, among other things,
oversight of our accounting and financial reporting processes, our compliance with legal regulatory
requirements, the qualifications and independence of the independent auditors and the performance
of the internal and independent auditors. A copy of the Audit Committee charter is published on
the Companys website at www.homebancshares.com under the caption Investor Relation"/Corporate
Profile"/Governance Documents.
Our Board of Directors has determined that all four members of the Committee are independent
based upon the independence requirements of the SEC and Nasdaq, and that our Chairman, Mr.
Engelkes, satisfies the criteria of an audit committee financial expert as defined by the
regulations of the SEC.
Management is responsible for the preparation, presentation, and integrity of our financial
statements, for the appropriateness of our accounting principles and reporting policies and for
implementing and maintaining internal control over financial reporting. Our independent auditors
are responsible for auditing the financial statements and for reviewing our unaudited interim
financial statements. The Audit Committees responsibility is to monitor and review these
processes and procedures. Except for our Chairman, Mr. Engelkes, the members of the Audit
Committee are not engaged in the practice of accounting or auditing and are not professionals in
those fields. The Audit Committee relies, without independent verification, on the information
provided to us and on the representations made by management that the financial statements have
been prepared with integrity and objectivity and on the representations of management and the
opinion of the independent auditors that such financial statements have been prepared in conformity
with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.
During 2006, the Audit Committee had three meetings. The Audit Committees regular meetings
were conducted in order to encourage communication among the members of the Audit Committee,
management, the internal auditors, and our independent auditors, BKD, LLP. Among other things, the
Audit Committee discussed with our internal and independent auditors the overall scope and plans
for
20
their respective audits. The Audit Committee separately met with each of the internal and
independent auditors, with and without management, to discuss the results of their examinations and
their observations and recommendations regarding our internal controls. The Audit Committee also
discussed with our independent auditors all matters required by generally accepted auditing
standards, including those described in Statement on Auditing Standards No. 61, as amended,
Communication with Audit Committees.
The Audit Committee reviewed and discussed our audited consolidated financial statements as of
and for the year ended December 31, 2006, with management, the internal auditors, and our
independent auditors. Managements discussions with the Audit Committee included a review of
critical accounting policies.
The Audit Committee obtained from the independent auditors a formal written statement
describing all relationships between us and our auditors that might bear on the auditors
independence consistent with Independence Standards Board Standard No. 1, Independence Discussions
with Audit Committees. The Audit Committee discussed with the auditors any relationships that may
have an impact on their objectivity and independence and satisfied itself as to the auditors
independence. The Audit Committee has reviewed and approved the amount of fees paid to BKD, LLP
for audit and non-audit services. The Audit Committee concluded that the provision of services by
BKD, LLP is compatible with the maintenance of BKDs independence.
Based on the above-mentioned review and discussions with management, the internal auditors,
and the independent auditors, and subject to the limitations on our role and responsibilities
described above and in the Audit Committee Charter, the Audit Committee recommended to the Board of
Directors that our audited consolidated financial statements be included in our Annual Report on
Form 10-K for the calendar year ended December 31, 2006, for filing with the SEC.
Home BancShares, Inc.
2006 Audit Committee Members
Jack E. Engelkes, Chairman
Herren C. Hickingbotham
Alex R. Lieblong
William G. Thompson
REPORT OF THE COMPENSATION COMMITTEE
OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
In accordance with its written charter, which was adopted in its current form by the Board of
Directors on January 20, 2006, the Compensation Committee evaluates and approves the plans and
policies related to the compensation of the Companys executive officers and directors. A copy of
the Compensation Committee charter is published on the Companys website at www.homebancshares.com
under the caption Investor Relation"/Corporate Profile"/Governance Documents.
The Committee met three times in 2006 to discuss, among other items, the salaries, bonuses and
other compensation of the senior executive officers and other key employees of the Company,
including the Chief Executive Officer. The Committee did not act by unanimous written consent at
any time in 2006.
In determining the compensation of the executive officers for 2007, the Committee, among other
things, evaluated the performance of the Chief Executive Officer and the other executive officers
in light
of corporate goals and objectives and reviewed the Chief Executive Officers compensation
recommendations. The Committee also set the annual cash bonuses of the executive officers for
2006.
21
The Compensation Committee reviewed and discussed with management the information provided in
the following Compensation Discussion and Analysis section of this Proxy Statement. Based on its
review and discussions with management, the Committee recommended to the Board of Directors that
the Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in this Proxy Statement and our Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the calendar year ended December 31, 2006, for filing with the SEC.
Home BancShares, Inc.
2006 Compensation Committee Members
Dale A. Bruns, Chairman
Richard H. Ashley
Jack E. Engelkes
EXECUTIVE AND DIRECTOR COMPENSATION
Compensation Discussion and Analysis
Overview of Compensation Philosophy and Program
The Compensation Committee, composed entirely of independent directors, administers the
Companys executive compensation program. The role of the Committee is to oversee Home BancShares
compensation and benefit plans and policies, administer its stock plans, and review and approve
annually all compensation decisions related to the named executive officers, the board members, and
the CEO and Chief Financial Officer (CFO). The Committee submits its decision with regard to the CEO and CFO to the
independent directors for their ratification.
The Committee recognizes the importance of compensation and performance and seeks to reward
performance with cost-effective compensation that aligns employee efforts with the business
strategy of the Company and with the interest of the shareholders. The Committee also recognizes
that the compensation should assist the Company in attracting and retaining key executives critical
to its long-term success.
The following principles guide the Committee:
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Compensation levels should be sufficiently competitive to attract and retain key
management for the banks and holding company. The Company hires experienced bank executives
that have a track record in the market. Competition is strong for these talented and experienced
people. The compensation package must be strong and competitive in that market. |
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Compensation should relate directly to performance and responsibility.
Compensation should vary with the performance and responsibility of the individual.
It should always be proportional to the contribution to the Companys success. |
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Short-term incentive compensation should motivate high performance.
The Company uses the cash bonus plan to motivate individuals with roles and responsibility
that give them the ability to directly impact performance and strategic direction. |
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The Companys Incentive Stock Option Plan should
align management with shareholders interests. Awards of stock options or other forms of long-term compensation should encourage management to focus on the long-term growth and success of the Company. It should provide management
with a meaningful stake in the Company and the prospects of a long-term career. |
|
Examples of actions of the Committee to implement this philosophy are:
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Engaged an independent consultant in 2005 to advise on
executive compensation issues. |
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Adopted and recommended to shareholders the 2006 Stock
Option and Performance Incentive Plan. |
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Granted stock options to senior executives with 5 year
vesting and performance goals. |
The Committee compares total compensation levels for the executive officers to the
compensation paid to executives of a peer group comprised of similar financial holding companies of
comparable size. For 2006, the peer group consisted of: Alabama National BancCorporation,
BancFirst Corp., BancorpSouth, Inc., Bank of the Ozarks, BankAtlantic Bancorp, Inc., BankUnited
Financial Corp., First Financial Bankshares, Great Southern Bancorp, IBERIABANK Corporation, Omni
Financial Services, Inc., Seacoast Banking Corp. of Florida, Security
Bank Corp., Simmons First
National
Corporation, Southside Bancshares, Southwest Bancorp, Sterling Bancshares, Superior Bancorp, TIB
Financial Corp. and United Community Banks.
22
The Company did not use the services of an independent compensation consultant to advise on
compensation issues in 2006. The Committee will review this decision on an annual basis and employ
such a consultant when the Committee determines that it would be helpful.
Components of Compensation
The key elements of the Companys executive compensation program are base salary, short-term
incentives (bonuses) and long-term incentives compensation (options). The Company tries to
determine the proper mix of base, short-term and long-term incentive compensation. In our
markets there are a number of national, regional and community banks. The competition for
experienced executives in banking is strong. The Committee understands that being a public
company that can offer equity incentives, a community banking philosophy,
and an above average base pay puts the Company in a competitive
position for strong management. The public market for the stock and
its easily accessible value is a positive factor in aligning the
managements interest with that of the shareholders and making them meaningful stakeholders.
Base Salary
Base salaries are targeted at the upper levels for the peer group of companies and are
adjusted to recognize varying levels of responsibility, individual performance, individual banks
performance if appropriate and internal equity issues. The Committee reviews the base salaries of
the executive officers annually. This base salary provides the foundation for a total compensation
package that is required to attract, retain and motivate the officers. Mr. Allison, CEO, has
declined to receive a salary or bonus. He believes that not receiving compensation for his duties
as Chairman and CEO, but instead depending on dividends and appreciation in the value of the stock
he holds, his interests are best aligned with those of our shareholders. Consistent with this
belief, Mr. Allison did not receive a salary in 2006 and does not intend to do so in the future.
Generally, base salaries are not directly related to specific measures of performance, but are
determined by experience, the scope and complexity of the position, current job responsibilities,
and salaries of competing banks. The Company does not use benchmarking.
Short-term Incentives
An annual cash bonus plan is intended to reward individual performance for that year. The
Compensation Committee reviews the individual performance of the officer, and if they are in charge
of a subsidiary bank, the performance of that bank. In evaluating a bank president, the Committee
reviews the goals for that subsidiary bank, including return on assets, growth in assets, asset
quality, return on equity, gross margin, net income, operating income, net cash flow and regulatory
examination results. In evaluating an executive officer of the parent, the Committee reviews the
goals of the parent company including shareholder return, earnings per share, and the other
criteria noted above. The final consideration is the overall profitability of the Company. The
Committee then determines the amount of the awards.
Long-term Incentives
Consistent with the Companys philosophy that favors compensation based upon performance,
long-term incentives comprise a significant component of total compensation. In March 2006, the
Board of Directors adopted and, at the 2006 annual meeting, the shareholders approved the 2006
Stock Option and Performance Incentive Plan (the Plan). The purpose of the Plan is to attract
and retain highly qualified officers, directors, and key employees, and to encourage those
employees to improve our business results. The Committee has set a cliff-vesting date of January
1, 2010, for the currently issued performance based options, and has tied the eligibility for those
options to annual or cumulative performance goals for the Company and for individual banks. If the
annual goals are met, then a percentage of the options are eligible for exercise at the end of the
cliff-vesting period. If annual goals are not met, but the Company meets its five-year cumulative
goals, participants in the Plan may still become eligible for 100% of the options originally
awarded to them. The Committee believes that these
23
performance based options that are based in part on the results of the subsidiary bank under the
direction of the officer and the cliff vesting of all the options provide annual incentives. The
stock awards granted in 2006 are achieving their objective, but the Committee will continue to
evaluate the need for additional awards.
It is the policy of the Committee to award grants with an exercise price set at the fair
market value on the date of the grant. The Company does not have a practice of timing option
grants to coordinate with the release of material non-public information. Although the Plan is
less than one year old, it is the intention of the Committee to evaluate opportunities under the
Plan along with the annual setting of salaries and awarding bonuses. The Committee will also
consider awards under the Plan if appropriate in recruiting a new employee. The Committee does not
have a policy of adjusting awards if performance goals are not met.
Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code places a limit of $1,000,000 on the amount of
compensation that Home BancShares may deduct in any one year with respect to each of its five most
highly paid executive officers. There is an exception to the $1,000,000 limitation for
performance-based compensation meeting certain requirements. Annual cash incentive compensation
and stock option awards are generally performance-based meeting those requirements and, as such,
are deductible. We do not currently have any executive officer with compensation of $1,000,000 and
the Compensation Committee has not adopted a policy with regard to this issue.
Post-Termination Benefits
We do not have any employment, salary continuation, or severance agreements currently in
effect for any of our executive officers.
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan
Prior to our acquisition of Community Bank, the bank purchased life insurance policies on its
President and Chief Executive Officer, Tracy M. French. The policies offset benefit expenses
associated with a supplemental annual retirement benefit that grows on a tax-deferred basis. A
portion of the benefit is determined by an indexed formula. The balance of the benefit is
determined by crediting interest on the accrued balances. The calculation for the benefit expense
accrual is: insurance policy income minus opportunity cost plus interest. The opportunity cost is
determined by the bank and is equal to the one year Treasury Bill rate. Community Bank retains the
opportunity cost. Prior to Mr. Frenchs retirement, any earnings in excess of the opportunity
costs are accrued to a liability reserve account for his benefit. In addition, that liability
account is credited with interest at a rate of 8.0%. At retirement, this liability reserve account
is amortized with interest and paid out over a period of 15 years. Subsequent to the liability
account being paid out in full, Mr. French will begin receiving an index retirement benefit
payable for life. If Mr. French dies while there is a balance in his account, this balance will be
paid in a lump sum to Mr. Frenchs beneficiaries.
Community Bank has all ownership rights in the death benefits and surrender values of the
insurance policy on Mr. French. Its obligations under the retirement benefit portion of this
policy are unfunded; however, the bank has purchased life insurance policies on Mr. French that are
actuarially designed to offset the annual expenses associated with the benefit portion of the
policy and will, given reasonable actuarial assumptions, offset all of the cost during Mr. Frenchs
lifetime and provide a complete recovery of costs at death.
The Compensation Committee is currently investigating a retirement benefit plan for the
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, John W. Allison. The Committee is planning to recommend to
the Board of Directors a $250,000 annual benefit that would begin on Mr. Allisons 65th
birthday and continue for his lifetime.
24
401(k) Plan
All our full- and part-time employees over the age of 21 are eligible to participate in our
401(k) Plan immediately. We contribute a matching contribution equal to 50% of the participants
first 6% of deferred compensation contribution. In addition, we may make a discretionary
contribution of up to 3% of total compensation.
Health and Insurance Benefits
Our full-time officers and employees are provided hospitalization and major medical insurance.
We pay a substantial part of the premiums for these coverages. All insurance coverage under these
plans is provided under group plans on generally the same basis to all of our full-time employees.
Also, we provide other basic insurance coverage including dental, life, and long-term disability
insurance.
In 2004, First State Bank adopted an endorsement split dollar life insurance plan which
provides for the purchase of life insurance policies insuring the life of Mr. Allison. Both the
bank and Mr. Allison have an interest in each of the policies, and therefore, this is classified as
an endorsement split-dollar plan. Mr. Allisons beneficiaries will be entitled to an amount equal
to 50% of the net-at-risk insurance portion of the total proceeds. The net-at-risk portion is the
total proceeds less the cash value of the policy. Mr. Allison recognizes the economic value of
this death benefit each year on his individual income tax return. The beneficiaries of the
policies are named by Mr. Allison and the bank will receive the remainder of the death benefit.
The bank has all ownership rights in the death benefits and surrender values of the policies. The
premium paid on June 4, 2004, for the policies was $4.8 million. Effective December 22, 2006, the
death benefits payable under these policies split between the bank and Mr. Allisons beneficiaries.
If the death benefit were paid in 2007, approximately $7.7 million would be paid to the bank and
approximately $2.4 million would be paid to Mr. Allisons beneficiaries.
Pension Plans
In connection with the acquisition of Bank of Mountain View and Community Bank, we assumed two
defined benefit pension plans. The Community Bank plan was frozen in 2000, and the Bank of
Mountain View plan was frozen at the time of the acquisition. As a result, there have been no new
participants in the plans and additional benefits earned. None of our executive officers or
directors are participants in these frozen plans. The two plans have combined assets of $2.6
million as of December 31, 2006. We made no employer contributions to the plans in 2006.
Perquisites
Home Bancshares provided certain perquisites to executive management in 2006. These
perquisites included country club dues, gasoline for
personal cars, 401(k) contributions, and the use of company owned cars. The Company does not own
its own airplane, but does use an airplane owned by Mr. Allisons company, Capital Buyers. An
employee of the Company is a pilot and flies the airplane. Mr. Allison also uses the pilot for
personal travel which may or may not occur during working hours. When the Company uses the plane,
Capital Buyers charges the Company for out of pocket expenses only.
25
Compensation of the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
As of December 31, 2006, Mr. Allison received no salary or bonus from the Company. He has
stated publicly to investors and to the Compensation Committee that he does not want a salary so
that his interests are the same as the investors. His compensation will come from an increase in
stock value. On March 13, 2006, Mr. Allison received 62,400 performance based stock options at the
then fair market value of $13.18 per share. He surrendered SARS of approximately the same value.
The stock options vest on January 1, 2010, if the Company meets stated performance goals. Twenty
percent of the options become eligible for exercise every year if the Company meets the annual
performance goals. If the annual performance goals are not met, that 20% of the options would only
become eligible if before January 1, 2010, the Company had met the cumulative goals. The Company
met its annual goals in 2006. Therefore, 12,480 options became eligible and can be exercised by
Mr. Allison on January 1, 2010, if he is still holding office with the Company at that time. The
Committee believes that Mr. Allisons compensation arrangement is very beneficial to shareholders.
At its meeting on January 19, 2007, the Compensation Committee discussed a plan to provide Mr.
Allison an annual benefit of $250,000 a year beginning on his 65th birthday and
continuing for his life. The Committee is continuing to investigate such a plan and hopes to make
a recommendation to the Board at its April 20, 2007, meeting. During its January meeting the
Committee also awarded Mr. Allison 20,000 stock options that will vest 50% in one year from the
date of grant and 50% in two years from the date of grant. The exercise price of these options is
$24.15, the fair market value on date of grant. The Committee based
the award on its conclusion that, through Mr. Allisons
leadership, the Company had completed a very successful year, which included an initial public
stock offering.
Executive Compensation
The following table sets forth various elements of compensation awarded to or paid by us for
services rendered in all capacities by our CEO, our CFO and our three
other most highly-compensated executive officers, our named executive officers, during the fiscal
year ended December 31, 2006:
[Table follows on next page.]
26
Summary Compensation Table
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Change in |
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pension value |
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and non- |
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qualified |
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Non-equity |
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deferred |
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Name and |
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Stock |
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incentive plan |
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compensation |
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All other |
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principal position |
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Year |
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Salary |
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Bonus |
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awards |
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Option awards |
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compensation |
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earnings |
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compensation |
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Total |
John W. Allison, |
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2006 |
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$ |
50,781 |
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$ |
93,070 |
(1) |
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$ |
143,851 |
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Chairman and Chief |
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Executive Officer |
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Randy E. Mayor, |
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2006 |
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$ |
185,000 |
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$ |
83,250 |
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28,829 |
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11,677 |
(2) |
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308,756 |
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Chief Financial |
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Officer and |
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Treasurer |
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Ron W. Strother, |
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2006 |
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267,500 |
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26,750 |
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65,520 |
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18,686 |
(3) |
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378,456 |
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President
and |
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Chief Operating |
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Officer |
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Tracy M. French, |
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2006 |
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197,836 |
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82,250 |
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24,024 |
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$ |
40,437 |
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11,087 |
(4) |
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355,634 |
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President of |
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Community Bank |
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C. Randall Sims, |
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2006 |
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200,000 |
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90,000 |
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28,829 |
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13,196 |
(5) |
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332,025 |
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President of First |
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State Bank |
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(1) |
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Mr. Allison used a pilot employed by the Company for personal trips in an airplane owned by
Capital Buyers, a company owned by Mr. Allison. The incremental cost of those services were
determined to be $7,000, using $500 per day (the current rate for a commercial pilot) times 14
days of personal travel. Other compensation also includes Company
Board of Directors fees,
$12,000; subsidiary bank director fees, $56,525; committee fees, $9,850; gasoline for personal
car, $3,224; country club dues, $4,365; and Company-owned life
insurance ownership, $106. |
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(2) |
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Includes country club dues, $1,965; and 401(k)
contribution, $9,712. |
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(3) |
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Includes personal use of Company car, $4,186; and
401(k) contribution, $14,500. The incremental cost of the car was determined by multiplying
the percentage of personal miles times the annual lease value of the car. |
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(4) |
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Includes gasoline for personal car, $1,212; personal use of Company car, $3,930; and 401(k) contribution, $5,945. The cost of the personal use
of the car was determined by the procedure described in Note 3 above. |
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(5) |
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Includes gasoline for personal car, $543; personal use of Company car, $2,350; country club
dues, $2,272; and 401(k) contribution, $8,031. The
cost of the personal use of the car was determined by the procedure described in Note 3 above. |
Employment Agreements
We currently do not have any employment, salary continuation or severance agreements in effect
with any of our executive officers.
27
Stock Awards and Stock Option Grants
In
2006, our board of directors adopted and, at the 2006 annual meeting, our shareholders approved the Home BancShares 2006 Stock Option and Performance Incentive Plan. Since March 1, 2006,
options to purchase an aggregate of 392,086 shares of common stock (net of options cancelled) have
been granted pursuant to the Plan, and options to purchase 55,329 shares have been exercised.
Options to purchase 1,031,081 shares remained outstanding under the Plan as of such date, and
options to purchase 113,590 shares of common stock remained available for future grant under the
Plan. See PROPOSAL THREE APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT TO THE COMPANYS 2006 STOCK OPTION AND
PERFORMANCE INCENTIVE PLAN for more information on the 2006 Stock Option and Performance Incentive
Plan.
The following table contains information about awards granted pursuant to the Plan to each of
our named executive officers during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2006:
Grants of Plan-Based Awards Table
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non-equity incentive plan awards |
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equity incentive plan awards |
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All other |
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All other |
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awards: |
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Exercise |
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
awards: |
|
|
of |
|
|
price of |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
number |
|
|
securities |
|
|
option |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
of shares |
|
|
under- |
|
|
awards |
|
|
|
Grant |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
of stock |
|
|
lying |
|
|
(per |
|
Name |
|
Date |
|
|
Threshold |
|
|
Target |
|
|
Maximum |
|
|
Threshold |
|
|
Target |
|
|
Maximum |
|
|
or units |
|
|
options |
|
|
share) |
|
John W. Allison |
|
|
3/13/06 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
62,400 |
|
|
$ |
13.18 |
|
Randy E. Mayor |
|
|
3/13/06 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
37,440 |
|
|
|
13.18 |
|
Ron W. Strother |
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Tracy M. French |
|
|
3/13/06 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
31,200 |
|
|
|
13.18 |
|
C. Randall Sims |
|
|
3/13/06 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
37,440 |
|
|
|
13.18 |
|
The stock options granted on March 13, 2006, will vest on January 1, 2010. They are
subject to annual or cumulative performance goals. If the Company meets its performance goal for
the entire period, then all of the stock options will be eligible for exercise on January 1, 2010.
The Company does not currently have a policy regarding repricing of stock options.
The following table contains information about unexercised stock options previously granted to each of our named executive officers that are outstanding as of
December 31, 2006. The Company has not issued any stock awards; therefore, the table does not
include any information related to stock awards:
[Table follows on next page.]
28
Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End Table
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Option Awards |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Equity |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
incentive plan |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
awards: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of |
|
|
|
|
|
Number of |
|
|
|
|
|
|
securities |
|
|
|
|
|
securities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
underlying |
|
Number of securities |
|
underlying |
|
|
|
|
|
|
unexercised |
|
underlying |
|
unexercised |
|
Option |
|
Option |
|
|
options |
|
unexercised options |
|
unearned |
|
exercise |
|
expiration |
Name |
|
exercisable |
|
unexercisable |
|
options |
|
price |
|
date |
John W. Allison |
|
|
1,200 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
7.33 |
|
|
|
12/31/2010 |
|
|
|
|
1,200 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7.33 |
|
|
|
12/31/2011 |
|
|
|
|
1,200 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7.33 |
|
|
|
12/31/2012 |
|
|
|
|
1,200 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7.33 |
|
|
|
12/31/2013 |
|
|
|
|
1,200 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7.33 |
|
|
|
12/31/2014 |
|
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8.33 |
|
|
|
12/31/2011 |
|
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8.33 |
|
|
|
12/31/2012 |
|
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8.33 |
|
|
|
12/31/2013 |
|
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8.33 |
|
|
|
12/31/2014 |
|
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8.33 |
|
|
|
12/31/2015 |
|
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
9.33 |
|
|
|
12/31/2012 |
|
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
9.33 |
|
|
|
12/31/2013 |
|
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
9.33 |
|
|
|
12/31/2014 |
|
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
9.33 |
|
|
|
12/31/2015 |
|
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
9.33 |
|
|
|
12/31/2016 |
|
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
10.00 |
|
|
|
12/31/2013 |
|
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
10.00 |
|
|
|
12/31/2014 |
|
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
10.00 |
|
|
|
12/31/2015 |
|
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
10.00 |
|
|
|
12/31/2016 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
10.00 |
|
|
|
12/31/2017 |
|
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
11.67 |
|
|
|
12/31/2014 |
|
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
11.67 |
|
|
|
12/31/2015 |
|
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
11.67 |
|
|
|
12/31/2016 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
11.67 |
|
|
|
12/31/2017 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
11.67 |
|
|
|
12/31/2018 |
|
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
12.67 |
|
|
|
12/31/2015 |
|
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
12.67 |
|
|
|
12/31/2016 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
12.67 |
|
|
|
12/31/2017 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
12.67 |
|
|
|
12/31/2018 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
12.67 |
|
|
|
12/31/2019 |
|
|
|
|
75,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
12.67 |
|
|
|
7/27/2015 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
62,400 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
13.18 |
|
|
|
3/13/2016 |
|
|
|
|
135 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
6.14 |
|
|
|
3/20/2012 |
|
|
|
|
1,935 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
6.14 |
|
|
|
12/31/2009 |
|
|
|
|
774 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
6.14 |
|
|
|
3/31/2011 |
|
|
|
|
1,212 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
11.34 |
|
|
|
12/31/2013 |
|
|
|
|
1,212 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
11.34 |
|
|
|
12/31/2014 |
|
|
|
|
3,636 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
11.34 |
|
|
|
1/1/2015 |
|
29
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Option Awards |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Equity |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
incentive plan |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
awards: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of |
|
|
|
|
|
Number of |
|
|
|
|
|
|
securities |
|
|
|
|
|
securities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
underlying |
|
Number of securities |
|
underlying |
|
|
|
|
|
|
unexercised |
|
underlying |
|
unexercised |
|
Option |
|
Option |
|
|
options |
|
unexercised options |
|
unearned |
|
exercise |
|
expiration |
Name |
|
exercisable |
|
unexercisable |
|
options |
|
price |
|
date |
John W. Allison (contd.) |
|
|
242 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
11.34 |
|
|
|
12/31/2014 |
|
|
|
|
970 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
11.34 |
|
|
|
1/1/2015 |
|
|
|
|
1,212 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
11.34 |
|
|
|
1/1/2015 |
|
Randy E. Mayor |
|
|
12,273 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7.33 |
|
|
|
12/31/2009 |
|
|
|
|
12,273 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7.33 |
|
|
|
12/31/2010 |
|
|
|
|
12,273 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7.33 |
|
|
|
12/31/2011 |
|
|
|
|
12,273 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7.33 |
|
|
|
12/31/2012 |
|
|
|
|
12,273 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7.33 |
|
|
|
12/31/2013 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
37,440 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
13.18 |
|
|
|
3/13/2016 |
|
Ron W. Strother |
|
|
24,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
12.67 |
|
|
|
5/25/2016 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
24,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
12.67 |
|
|
|
5/25/2017 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
24,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
12.67 |
|
|
|
5/25/2018 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
24,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
12.67 |
|
|
|
5/25/2019 |
|
Tracy M. French |
|
|
|
|
|
|
31,200 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
13.18 |
|
|
|
3/13/2016 |
|
C. Randall Sims |
|
|
12,273 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7.33 |
|
|
|
12/31/2009 |
|
|
|
|
12,273 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7.33 |
|
|
|
12/31/2010 |
|
|
|
|
12,273 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7.33 |
|
|
|
12/31/2011 |
|
|
|
|
12,273 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7.33 |
|
|
|
12/31/2012 |
|
|
|
|
12,273 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7.33 |
|
|
|
12/31/2013 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
37,440 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
13.18 |
|
|
|
3/13/2016 |
|
Option Exercises and Stock Awards Vested in 2006
Our named executive officers did not exercise any stock options or acquire any common shares
on vesting of stock awards during 2006.
Pension and Other Benefits
The following table contains information about the actuarial present value of the accumulated
benefit to each of our named executive officers under each plan in which the named executive
officer participates that provides for the payment of specified retirement benefits or benefits
that will be paid primarily following retirement:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Present |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of |
|
value of |
|
Payments |
|
|
|
|
years credited |
|
accumulated |
|
during last |
Name |
|
Plan Name |
|
service |
|
benefit |
|
fiscal year |
John W. Allison
|
|
N/A
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Randy E. Mayor
|
|
N/A
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ron W. Strother
|
|
N/A
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Tracy M. French
|
|
Flexible Premium
Adjustable Life
Insurance Policy (Strategic Life Exec) |
|
|
5 |
|
|
$ |
1,078,462 |
|
|
|
C. Randall Sims
|
|
N/A
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nonqualified Deferred Compensation
We do not currently have in effect any defined contribution or other plan that provides for
the deferral of compensation to any of our executive officers on a basis that is not tax-qualified.
30
Payments Upon Termination or Change-In-Control
We do not currently have in effect any compensatory plan or other arrangement that provides
for payments or the provision of benefits to any of our executive officers upon their termination
of employment with the Company or upon a change in control of the Company or a change in the
officers responsibilities.
Director Compensation
The following table sets forth various elements of compensation awarded to or paid by us to
our directors, other than our named executive officers, during the fiscal year ended December 31,
2006:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Change in |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
pension value |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fees |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
and |
|
|
|
|
|
|
earned or |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Non-equity |
|
nonqualified |
|
|
|
|
|
|
paid in |
|
Stock |
|
Option |
|
incentive plan |
|
compensation |
|
All other |
|
|
Name |
|
cash($)(1) |
|
awards |
|
awards |
|
compensation |
|
earnings |
|
compensation |
|
Total |
Richard H. Ashley |
|
$ |
30,450 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
30,450 |
|
Dale A. Bruns |
|
|
32,350 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
2,733 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
35,083 |
|
Richard A. Buckheim |
|
|
65,750 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
65,750 |
|
Jack E. Engelkes |
|
|
27,750 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,733 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
30,483 |
|
Frank D. Hickingbotham |
|
|
5,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
5,000 |
|
Herren C. Hickingbotham |
|
|
11,200 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
11,200 |
|
James G. Hinkle |
|
|
30,250 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
30,250 |
|
Alex R. Lieblong |
|
|
5,725 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,733 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8,458 |
|
William G. Thompson |
|
|
11,800 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
11,800 |
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
|
Includes Company Board of Directors and committee fees, subsidiary
bank director fees and subsidiary bank committee fees. |
During 2006, our non-employee directors received $1,000 ($2,000 for the chairman) for each
meeting of the board attended. Directors serving on the Audit or Compensation Committees received
$400 ($800 for the chairman) for each meeting attended of those committees, and directors serving
on other board committees received $250 ($500 for the chairman) for each meeting attended of those
other committees. The fees for 2007 will be the same.
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
Banking Transactions. Most of our directors and officers, as well as the firms and businesses
with which they or members of their immediate families are associated, are customers of our bank
subsidiaries. Our bank subsidiaries have engaged in a variety of loan transactions in the ordinary
course of business with these individuals and their families and businesses, and it is anticipated
that such transactions will occur in the future. In the case of all such related party
transactions, each transaction was approved by either the Audit Committee, the Nominating and
Corporate Governance Committee, the Board of Directors or the bank subsidiarys board of directors.
In addition, these loans were made on the same terms, including interest rates and collateral
requirements, as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions of others. In the opinion of our management, those loan transactions
do not involve more than a normal risk of collectability or present other unfavorable features.
31
As of December 31, 2006, the loans made by our bank subsidiaries to their respective directors
and officers and to directors and officers of the Company, either directly or as guarantors,
amounted to $53.0 million. We believe that all such extensions of credit were made in conformity
with the requirements of Federal Reserve Board Regulation O.
Real Estate Transactions. We lease certain of our properties from persons who are affiliated
with us. The property used by our Marketing and Sales Department, in Conway, Arkansas, is leased
from the Robert H. Bunny Adcock, Jr. Blind Trust, which is the beneficial owner of more than 5%
of our common stock. We lease the property located on Hogan Lane in Conway, Arkansas, from
Allison, Adcock & Rankin, LLC, a limited liability company owned in part by John W. Allison and the
Robert H. Bunny Adcock, Jr. Blind Trust. Mr. Allison is our Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer. We lease the land for Twin City Banks principal office in Lakewood Village Shopping
Center from Conservative Development Company, a corporation controlled, through common ownership,
by Richard H. Ashley, who is one of our directors. During 2006, the aggregate payments we made,
directly or indirectly, to the named persons for the various leases described above were less than
$120,000.
We believe the terms of each of the agreements described above are no less favorable to us
than we could have obtained from an unaffiliated third party. We expect we will continue to engage
in similar banking and business transactions in the ordinary course of business with our directors,
executive officers, principal shareholders and their associates. All proposed related party
transactions are presented to the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee of our Board of
Directors for consideration and approval. The Committee does not currently have any formal
policies or procedures with respect to its review, approval, or ratification of related party
transactions, but considers each related party transaction or proposed related party transaction on
a case-by-case basis. According to its charter, the Committee follows the definition of related
party transaction provided in the SECs regulations under the Securities Act of 1933.
SECTION 16(a) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE
Section 16 of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, requires each director,
officer, and any individual beneficially owning more than 10 percent of the Companys common stock
to file reports on Forms 3, 4, and 5 disclosing beneficial ownership and changes in beneficial
ownership of the common stock of the Company with the SEC within specified time frames. These
specified time frames require the Form 3s to be filed on or before the effective date of the
issuers registration statement. Changes in ownership must be filed on Form 4 within two business
days of the transaction. The Company filed with the SEC a Form S-1 registration statement on March 14, 2006, and a Form 10 registration statement on April 7, 2006. The S-1 was not declared effective by the SEC
until June 22, 2006, but the Form 10 became effective on
June 6, 2006, by operation of law. All 19
Form 3s were submitted for filing on June 6, 2006.
Eleven were processed by the SEC and dated June 6,
and eight were dated the next day, June 7. The following were dated June 7, 2006: Alex R. Lieblong, C.
Randall Sims, Ron Sims, Ron W. Strother, Brian Davis, Jack E. Engelkes, John W. Allison, and Frank
D. Hickingbotham. Based upon a review of copies of such forms, we believe that all our Section 16
filers complied with the filing requirements during the fiscal year except as indicated below. The
following inadvertently failed to timely file a Form 4 disclosing the conversion of the Companys
preferred stock into common stock: Alex R. Lieblong, Tracy M. French, John W. Allison, Richard A.
Buckheim, William G. Thompson, and Robert Hunter Padgett. Based upon incomplete legal advice, the
following failed to timely file a Form 4 disclosing purchases of common stock by their 401(k)
plans: Randy E. Mayor, Jennifer Holbrook, and Tracy M.
French. C. Randall Sims inadvertently failed to timely file a Form 4 following a purchase of
common stock by his 401(k) plan.
32
PRINCIPAL SHAREHOLDERS OF THE COMPANY
The authorized common stock of the Company consists of 25,000,000 shares at $0.01 par value.
As of the close of business on February 9, 2007, there were 17,217,997 shares outstanding held by
approximately 3,442 shareholders of record.
The following table sets forth certain information as of January 31, 2007, concerning the
number and percentage of shares of our common stock beneficially owned by our directors, our named
executive officers, and all of our directors and executive officers as a group, and by each person
known to us who beneficially owned more than 5% of the outstanding shares of our common stock.
Information in this table is based upon beneficial ownership concepts described in the rules
issued under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Under these rules, a person is deemed to be a
beneficial owner of any shares of our common stock if that person has or shares voting power,
which includes the power to vote or direct the voting of the shares, or investment power, which
includes the right to dispose or direct the disposition of the shares. Thus, under the rules, more
than one person may be deemed to be a beneficial owner of the same shares. A person is also deemed
to be a beneficial owner of any shares as to which that person has the right to acquire beneficial
ownership within 60 days from January 31, 2007.
Except as otherwise indicated, all shares are owned directly, and the named person possesses
sole voting and investment power with respect to his shares. The address for each of our directors
and named executive officers is c/o Home BancShares, Inc., 719 Harkrider, Suite 100, Conway,
Arkansas 72032.
[Table follows on next page.]
33
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amount and Nature |
|
Percent of |
|
|
of Beneficial |
|
Shares |
Name of Beneficial Owner |
|
Ownership |
|
Outstanding (1) |
5% or greater holders: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Robert H. Adcock (2) |
|
|
861,963 |
|
|
|
5.0 |
% |
Directors and executive officers: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
John W. Allison (3)(4) |
|
|
2,625,171 |
|
|
|
15.2 |
% |
Richard H. Ashley (5) |
|
|
1,059,504 |
|
|
|
6.2 |
% |
Dale A. Bruns (3) |
|
|
107,455 |
|
|
|
|
* |
Richard A. Buckheim (3) |
|
|
41,965 |
|
|
|
|
* |
Jack E. Engelkes (3)(6) |
|
|
66,805 |
|
|
|
|
* |
Tracy M. French (7) |
|
|
19,039 |
|
|
|
|
* |
Frank D. Hickingbotham (3)(8) |
|
|
624,207 |
|
|
|
3.6 |
% |
Herren C. Hickingbotham (3) |
|
|
229,083 |
|
|
|
1.3 |
% |
James G. Hinkle (9) |
|
|
169,553 |
|
|
|
1.0 |
% |
Alex R. Lieblong (3)(10) |
|
|
557,460 |
|
|
|
3.2 |
% |
Randy E. Mayor (3)(11) |
|
|
121,599 |
|
|
|
|
* |
C. Randall Sims (3)(12) |
|
|
138,452 |
|
|
|
|
* |
Ron W. Strother (3)(13) |
|
|
77,304 |
|
|
|
|
* |
William G. Thompson (14) |
|
|
101,132 |
|
|
|
|
* |
All directors and executive officers
as a group (18 persons) (3) |
|
|
6,071,561 |
|
|
|
35.3 |
% |
|
|
|
* |
|
Less than 1%. |
|
(1) |
|
The percentage of our common stock beneficially owned was calculated based on 17,217,697
shares of our common stock outstanding as of January 31, 2007. The percentage assumes that
the person in each row has exercised all options that are exercisable by that person or group
within 60 days of January 31, 2007. |
|
(2) |
|
Includes 600 shares that may be issued upon the exercise of vested common stock options.
Shares beneficially owned by Mr. Adcock are held through blind trusts established for his
benefit. The trustee of those trusts is Matt Barnhardt; his address is 1225 Front Street,
Conway, Arkansas 72032. |
|
(3) |
|
Includes shares that may be issued upon the exercise of vested common stock options, as
follows: Mr. Allison, 98,028 shares; Mr. Bruns, 1,200 shares; Mr. Buckheim, 2,844 shares;
Mr. Engelkes, 2,700 shares; Mr. Frank D. Hickingbotham, 1,212 shares; Mr. Herren C.
Hickingbotham, 2,424 shares; Mr. Lieblong, 7,950 shares; Mr. Mayor, 61,365 shares; Mr. Sims, 61,365 shares; Mr.
Strother, 24,000 shares; and all directors and executive officers as a group, 336,963
shares. |
34
|
|
|
(4) |
|
Includes 360,000 shares owned by Mr. Allisons spouse, either individually or as custodian
for their children, 725 shares held in Mr. Allisons IRA, and 14,169 shares owned by Capital
Buyers, a company that is owned by Mr. Allison. |
|
(5) |
|
Includes 2,495 shares held in Mr. Ashleys IRA, 2,700 shares owned by Mr. Ashleys spouse,
354,390 shares owned by Conservative Development Company, a corporation of which Mr. Ashley is
president, and 195,393 shares owned by RHA Investments, a company of which Mr. Ashley is a
partner. |
|
(6) |
|
Includes 36,600 shares owned by Mr. Engelkes spouse, 9,000 shares for which Mr. Engelkes is
custodian for his children, and 800 shares held in Mr. Engelkes Simple IRA. |
|
(7) |
|
Includes 3,731 shares owned by Mr. Frenchs 401(k) plan, 5,539 shares held in Mr. Frenchs
IRA, 1,000 shares owned by the Daniel French Trust, and 1,332 shares owned by the Daniel
French Irrevocable Trust. |
|
(8) |
|
Includes 308,360 shares owned by Mr. Hickingbothams grandchildrens trusts. |
|
(9) |
|
Includes 167,763 shares owned by the James G. Hinkle Revocable Trust. |
|
(10) |
|
Includes 11,034 shares that are owned by Mr. Lieblongs spouse, and 342,900 shares that are
owned by Key Colony Fund L.P., a hedge fund of which Mr. Lieblong is the managing partner. |
|
(11) |
|
Includes 3,231 shares owned by Mr. Mayors 401(k) plan, and 12,708 shares held in Mr. Mayors
IRA. |
|
(12) |
|
Includes 28,088 shares owned by Mr. Sims 401(k) plan. |
|
(13) |
|
Includes 4,004 shares owned by Mr. Strothers 401(k) plan. |
|
(14) |
|
Includes 2,648 shares owned by Mr. Thompsons IRA, 3,093 shares owned by the IRA of Mr.
Thompsons spouse, 54,501 shares owned by Thompson Brothers LLC, a company of which Mr.
Thompson is a partner, and 304 shares owned by B and L Thompson Investments LLC, which is
owned by Mr. Thompson. |
[Remainder of page intentionally left blank.]
35
PROPOSAL TWO APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT TO
ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION TO INCREASE
NUMBER OF AUTHORIZED SHARES
General
Our Restated Articles of Incorporation, as amended, currently authorize the issuance of up to
25,000,000 shares of common stock, $0.01 par value. As of the record date, 17,221,938 shares of
common stock were issued and outstanding, 1,042,225 shares were subject to currently outstanding
stock options, and 99,960 shares were subject to stock options available for future grant, leaving 6,635,877 shares available for other uses.
The Board of Directors is proposing an amendment to the Restated Articles of Incorporation, as
amended, to increase the number of authorized shares of common stock from 25,000,000 to 50,000,000.
If the shareholders approve this proposal, the first sentence of Article THIRD in the Companys
Restated Articles of Incorporation, as amended, will be amended to read as follows:
The authorized capital stock (the Capital Stock) of this Corporation
shall be 50,000,000 shares of voting common stock (the Common Stock)
having a value of $.01 per share, and 5,500,000 shares of $0.01 par value preferred
stock (the Preferred Stock), divided into 2,500,000 shares of class A
non-voting, non-cumulative, callable and redeemable, convertible preferred stock
(Class A Preferred Stock) and 3,000,000 shares of class B non-voting,
non-cumulative, callable and redeemable, convertible preferred stock (Class B
Preferred Stock).
Purpose and Effect of the Proposed Amendment
The Board believes that the current number of authorized shares does not provide the Company
with adequate flexibility to issue stock in connection with any future acquisitions or for general
corporate purposes. In particular, if the Board determines that it would be appropriate to effect
a significant acquisition through the exchange of common stock, conduct a stock offering or declare
a dividend or split, the current number of unissued authorized shares might not be enough to
complete such transaction. Although we cannot guarantee that any future acquisitions, stock
offerings, dividends or splits will occur, the Board believes that the proposed increase in the
number of authorized shares will provide the Company with the flexibility necessary to maintain a
reasonable stock price through future stock dividends or splits, or to issue shares in connection
with an acquisition or other corporate purpose, without incurring the expense of convening a
special shareholders meeting or the delay of waiting until the next annual meeting.
If this proposal is approved, all authorized but unissued shares of common stock will be
available from time to time for any proper purpose approved by the Board, including issuances in
connection with stock-based benefit plans, future stock splits or dividends and issuances to raise
capital or effect acquisitions. Neither the Company nor the Board currently has any arrangements
or understandings with respect to the issuance or use of the additional shares of authorized common
stock sought to be approved (other than issuances permitted or required under the Companys
stock-based benefit plans or awards made pursuant to those plans). If this proposal is approved,
all or any of the shares may be issued without further shareholder action, unless required by law
or the rules of the Nasdaq Stock Market.
36
Existing shareholders do not have preemptive or similar rights to subscribe for or purchase
any additional shares of common stock that the Company may issue in the future. Therefore,
issuances of common stock other than issuances on a pro rata basis to all shareholders would reduce
each shareholders proportionate interest in the Company.
An increase in the authorized number of shares of common stock could have an anti-takeover
effect. If we issue additional shares in the future, such an issuance could dilute the voting
power of a person seeking control of the Company, thereby making an attempt to acquire control of
the Company more difficult or expensive. Neither the Board nor management is currently aware of
any attempt, or contemplated attempt, to acquire control of the Company, and we are not presenting
this proposal with the intent that it be used as an anti-takeover device.
Vote Required to Approve Proposal
Approval of the amendment to the Restated Articles of Incorporation to increase the number of
authorized shares requires the affirmative vote of a majority of the votes cast in person or by
proxy at the Annual Meeting, assuming a quorum is present.
The Board of Directors Recommends that Shareholders Vote
FOR
Approval of the Amendment to the Companys Restated Articles of Incorporation
to Increase the Number of Authorized Shares
PROPOSAL THREE APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT TO THE COMPANYS
2006 STOCK OPTION AND PERFORMANCE INCENTIVE PLAN
The 2006 Stock Option and Performance Incentive Plan (the Plan) was adopted by our Board of
Directors in March 2006 and approved by our stockholders in June 2006. The number of shares
originally authorized for issuance under the Plan was 1,200,000. As of the record date, options
and other stock awards to purchase 1,042,225 shares of common stock were issued and outstanding under
the Plan, and 99,960 shares of common stock were available for issuance under the
Plan.
On February 28, 2007, our Board of Directors approved an amendment to the Plan, subject to
shareholder approval, to increase the number of shares reserved for issuance under the Plan by
300,000 shares. This amendment is being submitted to our shareholders for approval.
2006 Stock Option and Performance Incentive Plan
In 2006, our board of directors adopted and our shareholders approved the Home BancShares 2006
Stock Option and Performance Incentive Plan. The purpose of the Plan is to attract and retain
highly qualified officers, directors, key employees, and other persons, and to motivate those
persons to improve our business results and to attract and retain officers and employees.
The Plan amends and restates various prior plans that were adopted either by us or companies
that we acquired. Awards made under any of the prior plans will be subject to the terms and
conditions of the
37
Plan, which is designed not to impair the rights of award holders under the prior plans. The
Plan goes beyond the prior plans by including new types of awards (such as unrestricted stock,
performance shares, and performance and annual incentive awards) in addition to the stock options
(incentive and non-qualified), stock appreciation rights, and restricted stock that could have been
awarded under one or more of the prior plans.
Administration. The Plan is administered by our Compensation Committee. Subject to the terms
of the Plan, the Compensation Committee may select participants to receive awards; determine the
types of awards, terms, and conditions of awards; and interpret provisions of the Plan.
Source of Shares. The common stock issued or to be issued under the Plan consists of
authorized but unissued shares and treasury shares. If any shares covered by an award are not
purchased or are forfeited, or if an award otherwise terminates without delivery of any common
stock, then the number of shares of common stock counted against the aggregate number of shares
available under the Plan with respect to the award will, to the extent of any such forfeiture or
termination, again be available for making awards.
If the option price, a withholding obligation or any other payment is satisfied by tendering
shares or by withholding shares, only the number of shares issued net of the shares tendered or
withheld will be deemed delivered for the purpose of determining the maximum number of shares
available for delivery under the Plan.
Eligibility. Awards may be made under the Plan to all employees, officers, directors,
consultants and other key persons. In determining to whom awards will be granted, the committee
will take into account the nature of the services, potential contributions, and other relevant
factors.
Amendment or Termination of the Plan. While our Board of Directors may suspend, terminate or
amend the Plan at any time, no amendment may adversely impair the rights of grantees with respect
to outstanding awards. In addition, an amendment will be contingent on approval of our
shareholders to the extent required by law. Unless terminated earlier, the Plan will automatically
terminate ten years after its adoption by our Board of Directors.
Options. The Plan permits the granting of options to purchase shares of common stock intended
to qualify as incentive stock options under the Internal Revenue Code (incentive stock options) and
stock options that do not qualify as incentive stock options (non-qualified stock options). The
exercise price of each stock option may not be less than 100% of the fair market value of our
common stock on the date of grant. If we were to grant incentive stock options to any 10%
shareholder, the exercise price may not be less than 110% of the fair market value of our common
stock on the date of grant. We may grant options in substitution for options held by employees of
companies that we may acquire. The fair market value of our common stock on March 1, 2007, based
upon the closing price as reported on the Nasdaq Stock Market on that date, was $23.20.
The term of each stock option will be fixed by the Compensation Committee and may not exceed
ten years from the date of grant. The committee determines at what time or times each option may
be exercised and the period of time, if any, after retirement, death, disability or termination of
employment during which options may be exercised. The exercisability of options may be accelerated
by the Compensation Committee. In general, an optionee may pay the exercise price of an option by
cash or cash equivalent, or, if permitted by the committee, by tendering shares of our common stock
(which if acquired from us have been held by the optionee for at least six months).
38
Stock options granted under the Plan may not be sold, transferred, pledged, or assigned other
than by will or under applicable laws of descent and distribution or pursuant to a domestic
relations order.
Other Awards. The Compensation Committee may also award under the Plan:
|
|
|
restricted shares of common stock, which are shares of our common
stock subject to restrictions; |
|
|
|
|
stock units, which are common stock units subject to restrictions; |
|
|
|
|
unrestricted shares of common stock, which are shares of our common
stock issued at no cost or for a purchase price determined by the
Compensation Committee and which are free from any restrictions under
the Plan; |
|
|
|
|
tax offset payments, which are common stock or cash used to pay
income taxes incurred as a result of participation in the Plan; |
|
|
|
|
stock appreciation rights, tandem or non-tandem, which are a right to
receive a number of shares or, in the discretion of the committee, an
amount in cash or a combination of shares and cash, based on the
increase in the fair market value of the shares underlying the right
during a stated period specified by the Compensation Committee; and |
|
|
|
|
performance and annual incentive awards, ultimately payable in our
common stock or cash, as determined by the Compensation Committee. The
Compensation Committee may grant multi-year and annual incentive awards
subject to achievement of specified goals tied to business criteria
(described below). The Compensation Committee may modify, amend or
adjust the terms of each award and performance goal. |
Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code limits publicly held companies to an annual
deduction for federal income tax purposes of $1.0 million for compensation paid to their chief
executive officer and the four highest compensated executive officers (other than the chief
executive officer) determined at the end of each year (referred to as covered employees). However,
performance-based compensation is excluded from this limitation. The Plan was not subject to
Section 162(m) in 2006 because the regulations under Section 162(m) provide for a grace period for
awards granted during the year in which a corporation becomes a publicly held company. Beginning
as of the calendar year 2007, the Plan is subject to Section 162(m). The Plan is designed to
permit the Compensation Committee to grant awards that qualify as performance-based compensation
for purposes of satisfying the conditions of Section 162(m).
Business Criteria. The Compensation Committee uses one or more of the following business
criteria, on a consolidated basis, and/or with respect to specified subsidiaries (except with
respect to the total shareholder return and earnings per share criteria), in establishing
performance goals for awards intended to comply with Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code
granted to covered employees:
|
|
|
shareholder return; |
|
|
|
|
return on assets; |
|
|
|
|
growth in assets; |
|
|
|
|
return on equity; |
|
|
|
|
earnings per share; |
39
|
|
|
net income; |
|
|
|
|
operating income; and |
|
|
|
|
free cash flow. |
Adjustments for Stock Dividends and Similar Events. The Compensation Committee makes
appropriate adjustments in outstanding awards and the number of shares available for issuance under
the Plan, including the individual limitations on awards, to reflect common stock dividends, stock
splits, spin-offs and other similar events.
Federal Income Tax Consequences of Options and Stock Awards Under the Plan
THE FOLLOWING IS A GENERAL SUMMARY OF THE TYPICAL FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE
ISSUANCE AND EXERCISE OF OPTIONS, STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHTS OR AWARDS OF RESTRICTED STOCK UNDER THE
PLAN. IT DOES NOT DESCRIBE APPLICABLE FOREIGN, STATE, LOCAL AND OTHER TAX CONSEQUENCES
OF THE ISSUANCE AND EXERCISE OF OPTIONS OR OF THE GRANT OF RESTRICTED STOCK. THIS SUMMARY IS BASED
UPON THE PROVISIONS OF THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE, APPLICABLE TREASURY REGULATIONS, ADMINISTRATIVE
RULINGS AND JUDICIAL DECISIONS, ALL AS IN EFFECT AS OF THE DATE OF THIS PROXY STATEMENT. THERE CAN
BE NO ASSURANCE THAT FUTURE LEGISLATIVE, ADMINISTRATIVE OR JUDICIAL CHANGES OR INTERPRETATIONS,
WHICH CHANGES COULD APPLY RETROACTIVELY, WILL NOT AFFECT THE ACCURACY OF THIS SUMMARY.
Stock Awards. A recipient of a stock award has taxable income in the amount equal to the
excess of the fair market value of the stock on the date it vests over any consideration paid for
the common stock (the spread). Stock vests either (i) when it is no longer subject to a
substantial risk of forfeiture (such as a requirement that the recipient retransfer shares at
cost or some other material discount from fair market value upon cessation of employment), (ii)
when it is freely transferable, or (iii) at the time of issuance if the recipient makes an election
under Section 83(b) of the Internal Revenue Code within 30 days of the issuance. The taxable
income constitutes wages subject to income and employment tax withholding, and the Company receives
a corresponding income tax deduction. The recipient will have a basis in his or her shares equal
to the value of the shares on the date they vest, and the holding period for the shares will date
from vesting. In general, a sale of the shares will produce capital gain or loss which will be
long term or short term depending on the period of time included in the recipients holding period,
except that a recipient who makes a Section 83(b) election will not be entitled to any loss should
the shares subsequently be forfeited back to the Company.
Options. The grant of an option has no federal income tax effect on the optionee. Upon
exercise of the option, unless the option was qualified as an incentive stock option as discussed
below, the optionee is treated in the same manner as a recipient of a stock award. Special federal
income tax rules apply if our common stock is used to pay all or part of the option exercise price
whether or not the options qualify as incentive stock options.
Incentive Stock Options. Like other options, the recipient of an incentive stock option
does not recognize any income on the grant of the option. Unlike other transferees of shares,
however, the optionee does not recognize income for regular tax purposes at the time the option
is exercised. If the optionee does not dispose of the incentive stock option shares until at least
one year after the date the incentive stock option was exercised and two years after the date the
incentive stock option was granted, the only gain or loss the optionee will recognize for regular
tax purposes will be the long-term capital gain or loss on the sale of the shares. However, any
shares sold or otherwise disposed of before both of the
40
holding period requirements have been met (a disqualifying disposition), will result in the
gain being treated as ordinary income in an amount up to the excess of the fair market value of the
stock subject to an option over the exercise price of such option (the option spread). Any
additional gain will be treated as capital gain or loss and as long-term or short-term depending on
the holding period for the stock.
In addition to the regular tax consequences discussed above, the exercise of an incentive
stock option can have material alternative minimum tax consequences. In general, the transfer of
the shares pursuant to the incentive stock option will create alternative minimum taxable income in
the same way that the exercise of other options would create regular taxable income. As a result,
the exercise of an incentive stock option can result in substantial alternative minimum tax. The
Company is not entitled to a federal income tax deduction in connection with incentive stock
options, except to the extent that the optionee has taxable ordinary income on a disqualifying
disposition.
Stock Appreciation Rights. Upon the grant of a stock appreciation right, the recipient will
not recognize ordinary income. However, upon the exercise of a stock appreciation right, the
recipient will, in general, recognize ordinary income in an amount equal to the amount of cash (or
the value of the shares) distributed to the recipient. Such income will be treated as wages subject
to income and employment tax withholding. The Company will have a deduction equal to the income to
the recipient.
Limitation on Deduction of Certain Compensation. A publicly held corporation may not deduct
compensation of over a certain amount that is paid in any year to one of its executive officers
unless the compensation constitutes qualified performance-based compensation under the Internal
Revenue Code. We will generally attempt to ensure that any awards under the Plan will qualify for
deduction, but may not do so in every instance.
Plan Benefits
Awards under the Plan are granted at the discretion of the Compensation Committee or the
Administrator, and accordingly, the amount of any such awards that may be granted to any individual
is not yet determinable. Benefits under the Plan depend on a number of factors, including the fair
market value of our common stock on future dates, our actual performance against performance goals
established with respect to performance awards and decisions made by the participants, and
accordingly, are also not yet determinable.
Required Vote
The approval of the amendment to the Plan to increase the number of shares reserved for
issuance under such plan by 300,000 shares requires the affirmative vote of a majority of the votes
cast in person or by proxy at the Annual Meeting, assuming a quorum is present.
The Board of Directors Recommends that Shareholders Vote
FOR
the Approval of the Amendment to the Companys
2006 Stock Option and Performance Incentive Plan
41
PROPOSAL FOUR RATIFICATION OF APPOINTMENT OF
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Our consolidated financial statements as of and for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2006,
were audited by BKD, LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm. In 2006, the Audit
Committee of the Board of Directors and our shareholders approved the engagement of BKD, LLP to be
our independent registered accounting firm for fiscal year 2006. As of March 9, 2007, the Audit
Committee has approved the re-engagement of BKD, LLP to be our independent registered public
accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2007, subject to the ratification of the
appointment by our shareholders at the Annual Meeting.
BKD, LLP became our independent registered public accounting firm on October 21, 2005. Our
consolidated financial statements as of and for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2003 and 2004,
were audited by Ernst & Young LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm. On October
21, 2005, following the closing of the Ernst & Young LLP Little Rock, Arkansas office, we dismissed
Ernst & Young LLP and appointed BKD, LLP to audit our financial statements for the year ended
December 31, 2005. Our Board of Directors and Audit Committee approved the dismissal of Ernst &
Young LLP and appointment of BKD, LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm.
The reports of Ernst & Young LLP on our financial statements as of and for the years ended
December 31, 2003 and 2004, contained no adverse opinion or disclaimer of opinion and were not
qualified or modified as to uncertainty, audit scope or accounting principles. During the years
ended December 31, 2003 and 2004, and through October 21, 2005, there were no disagreements with
Ernst & Young LLP on any matter of accounting principles or practices, financial statement
disclosure or auditing scope or procedures which disagreements, if not resolved to the satisfaction
of Ernst & Young LLP, would have caused them to make reference thereto in their report on the
financial statements for such years. During the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2004, and
through October 21, 2005, there have been no reportable events as defined in Regulation S-K Item
304(a)(1)(v).
On October 21, 2005, we engaged BKD, LLP as our new independent auditor. Our Audit Committee
and Board of Directors approved this action. During the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2004,
respectively, and through October 21, 2005, neither we nor any person on our behalf consulted with
BKD, LLP regarding the application of accounting principles to a specific completed or contemplated
transaction or the type of audit opinion that might be rendered on our financial statements, and we
were not provided with a written report or oral advice by BKD, LLP that was an important factor
that we considered in reaching a decision as to an accounting, auditing or financial reporting
issue. We have delivered a copy of this disclosure to BKD, LLP, and BKD, LLP has not indicated
that it disagrees with any of the statements made in this section.
We delivered a copy of this disclosure to Ernst & Young LLP on March 10, 2006, in connection
with the filing with the SEC of our registration statement for the initial public offering of our
common stock, and requested that Ernst & Young LLP furnish us with a letter addressed to the SEC
stating whether or not it agrees with the above statements regarding Ernst & Young LLP. A copy of
the letter from Ernst & Young LLP to the SEC dated March 13, 2006, stating that it agrees with the
statements made in this section was attached as Exhibit 16.1 to our registration statement, which
became effective as of June 22, 2006. A copy of our registration statement and the letter to the SEC from Ernst &
Young LLP attached as Exhibit 16.1 to the registration statement are available on the SECs website
at www.sec.gov.
42
Shareholders ratification of the selection of BKD, LLP to be our independent registered public
accounting firm for fiscal year 2007 is not required by our Bylaws or otherwise. However, the
Board is submitting the selection of the independent registered public accounting firm to the
shareholders for ratification as a matter of good corporate practice. If the shareholders fail to
ratify the selection of BKD, LLP, the Audit Committee will reconsider whether or not to retain that
firm. Even if the selection is ratified, the Audit Committee may, at its discretion, direct the
appointment of a different independent registered accounting firm at any time during the year if it
determines that such change is in the best interests of the Company and our shareholders.
Representatives of BKD, LLP are expected to attend the Annual Meeting, will have an
opportunity to make a statement if they so desire, and will be available to respond to appropriate
questions.
The Board of Directors Recommends that Shareholders Vote
FOR
the Ratification of the Appointment of BKD, LLP
as the Companys Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
for the 2007 Calendar Year
AUDIT AND NON-AUDIT FEES
Effective October 21, 2005, BKD, LLP became our independent registered public accounting firm,
replacing Ernst & Young, LLP, who had served as our independent auditors for calendar year 2004.
The following table represents aggregate fees billed for professional audit services rendered by
BKD, LLP to provide the audit of our annual financial statements for the years ended December 31,
2006, and December 31, 2005, respectively.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
|
|
Audit fees(1) |
|
$ |
472,386 |
|
|
$ |
579,710 |
|
Audit-related fees(2) |
|
|
45,735 |
|
|
|
35,594 |
|
Tax fees(3) |
|
|
41,339 |
|
|
|
360 |
|
All other fees(4) |
|
|
25,568 |
|
|
|
4,644 |
|
|
|
|
(1) |
|
Audit fees consisted of audit work performed in the preparation of
financial statements, as well as work generally only the independent auditor
can reasonably be expected to provide, such as statutory audits. |
|
(2) |
|
Audit related fees included SAS70 review of the Companys data
processing subsidiary and research and conferences regarding various matters. |
|
(3) |
|
Tax fees for 2006 primarily related to preparation of the Companys
income tax returns. |
|
(4) |
|
Other fees related to fees paid by the Company on behalf of the
Companys retirement plan for third-party administration of the Companys
defined contribution plan. |
43
Policy on Audit Committee Pre-Approval of Audit and Permissible Non-Audit Services of Independent
Auditor
The Audit Committee has the responsibility of appointing, setting compensation for and
overseeing the work of the independent auditor, and has established a policy to pre-approve all
audit and permissible non-audit services provided by the independent auditor.
Prior to engagement of the independent auditor for next years audit, management will submit
an aggregate of services expected to be rendered during that year for each of four categories of
services to the Audit Committee for approval.
|
(1) |
|
Audit services include audit work performed in the preparation of
financial statements, as well as work that generally only the
independent auditor can reasonably be expected to provide, including
comfort letters, statutory audits, and attest services, and
consultation regarding financial accounting and/or reporting
standards. |
|
|
(2) |
|
Audit-related services are for assurance and related services that are
traditionally performed by the independent auditor, including due
diligence related to mergers and acquisitions, employee benefit plan
audits, and special procedures required to meet certain regulatory
requirements. |
|
|
(3) |
|
Tax services include all services performed by the independent
auditors tax personnel except those services specifically related to
the audit of the financial statements, and includes fees in the areas
of tax compliance, tax planning and tax advice. |
|
|
(4) |
|
Other fees are those associated with services not captured in the
other categories. We generally do not request such services from the
independent auditor. |
Prior to the engagement, the Audit Committee pre-approves these services by category of
service. The fees are budgeted and the Audit Committee requires the independent auditor and
management to report actual fees versus the budget periodically throughout the year by category of
service. During the year, circumstances may arise when it may become necessary to engage the
independent auditor for additional services not contemplated in the original pre-approval. In
those instances, the Audit Committee requires specific pre-approval before engaging the independent
auditor.
The Audit Committee may delegate pre-approval authority to one or more of its members. The
members to whom such authority is delegated must report, for informational purposes only, the
pre-approval decisions to the Audit Committee at its next scheduled meeting.
SUBMISSION OF SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS
In
order for a proposal by a shareholder to be presented at an annual meeting of our
shareholders, the proposal must be included in the related proxy statement and proxy form. For a
shareholder proposal to be included in the Proxy Statement and proxy form for the Annual Meeting of
Shareholders in 2007, the proposal must: (1) be received by the Company at its home office, 719
Harkrider Street, Suite 100, Conway, Arkansas 72032, Attention: C. Randall Sims, Secretary, on or
before a reasonable date before the printing and mailing of the proxy
materials; and (2) concern a matter that
may be properly considered and acted upon at the Annual Meeting in accordance with applicable laws,
including our Bylaws and Rule 14a-8 of the Securities Act.
44
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
We file reports, proxy statements, and other information with the SEC. You can read and copy
these reports, proxy statements, and other information concerning the Company at the SECs public
reference room at 450 Fifth Street N.W., Washington, D.C., 20549. Please call the SEC at
1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the public reference room. You may also view and print
reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file
electronically with the SEC, including the Company, from the SEC website at www.sec.gov.
SHAREHOLDERS WHO DO NOT EXPECT TO ATTEND THE
MEETING ARE URGED TO VOTE BY TELEPHONE,
MAIL OR INTERNET.
IF YOU VOTE BY TELEPHONE OR THE INTERNET,
DO NOT RETURN YOUR PROXY CARD
By Order of the Board of Directors
C. RANDALL SIMS
Secretary
45
Electronic Voting Instructions
You can vote by Internet or telephone!
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!
Instead of mailing your proxy, you may
choose one of the two voting methods outlined
below to vote your proxy.
VALIDATION DETAILS ARE LOCATED BELOW IN THE TITLE BAR.
Proxies submitted by the Internet or telephone
must be received by 1:00 a.m., Central Time, on May 9, 2007.
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Vote by Internet |
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Log on to the Internet and go to |
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www.investorvote.com |
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Follow the steps outlined on the secured website. |
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Vote by telephone |
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Call toll free 1-800-652-VOTE
(8683) within the United States,
Canada & Puerto Rico any time on a
touch tone telephone. There is NO
CHARGE to you for the call. |
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Using a black ink pen, mark your votes with an X as shown in
this example. Please do not write outside the designated areas.
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x |
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Follow the instructions provided by the recorded message. |
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Annual Meeting Proxy Card
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6
IF YOU HAVE NOT VOTED VIA THE INTERNET OR TELEPHONE, FOLD ALONG THE PERFORATION, DETACH AND RETURN THE BOTTOM PORTION IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE. 6
A Proposals The Board of Directors recommends a vote FOR all the nominees listed and FOR Proposals 2 5.
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1. Election of Directors:
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For
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Withhold |
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01 John W. Allison
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o
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o |
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04 Richard H. Ashley
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o
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o |
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07 Jack E. Engelkes
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o
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o |
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10 James G. Hinkle
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o
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o |
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For
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Withhold |
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02 Ron W. Strother
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o
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o |
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05 Dale A. Bruns
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o
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o |
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08 Frank D. Hickingbotham
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o
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o |
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11 Alex R. Lieblong
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o
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o |
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For
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Withhold |
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03 C. Randall Sims
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o
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o |
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06 Richard A. Buckheim
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o
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o |
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09 Herren C. Hickingbotham
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o
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o |
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12
William G. Thompson
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o
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o |
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For
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Against
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Abstain |
2.
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To approve an amendment to the Companys
Restated Articles of Incorporation, as amended, to increase
the number of authorized shares of common stock from
25,000,000 to 50,000,000.
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o
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o
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o |
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4.
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To ratify the appointment of BKD, LLP as the Companys
independent registered public accounting firm for the next
fiscal year.
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o
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o
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o |
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For
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Against
|
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Abstain |
3.
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To approve an ammendment to the Companys 2006 Stock
Option and Performance Incentive Plan to increase the
number of shares reserved for issuance under such plan
to 1,500,000.
|
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o
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o
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o |
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5.
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To transact such other business as may properly come
before the meeting or any adjournments thereof. |
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IF VOTING BY MAIL, YOU MUST COMPLETE SECTIONS A C ON BOTH SIDES OF THIS CARD.
6
IF YOU HAVE NOT VOTED VIA THE INTERNET OR TELEPHONE, FOLD ALONG THE PERFORATION, DETACH AND RETURN THE BOTTOM PORTION IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE. 6
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Proxy HOME BANCSHARES, INC.
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+ |
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HOME BANCSHARES, INC.
719 Harkrider Street, Suite 100
Conway, Arkansas 72032
Telephone No. (501) 328-4656
The undersigned hereby constitutes and appoints C. Randall Sims and Randy Mayor or either of
them, proxies for the undersigned, with full power of substitution, to represent the undersigned
and to vote all of the shares of common stock of Home BancShares, Inc. (the Company) which the
undersigned is entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting (the Annual Meeting) of shareholders of the
Company to be held on May 9, 2007, at 6:30 p.m. (CDT) at the New Life Church, 633 S. Country Club,
Conway, Arkansas, and at any adjournment thereof, as stated on the reverse.
This Proxy is automatically revoked if the undersigned shareholder attends the Annual Meeting in person and votes on any matter.
(Continued and to be voted on reverse side.)
B Non-Voting Items
Change of Address Please print new address below.
C Authorized Signatures This section must be completed for your vote to be counted. Date and Sign Below
Please sign exactly as name appears on the certificates representing shares to be voted by this
proxy. When signing as executor, trustee or guardian, please give full title as such. If a
corporation, please sign in full corporate name by president or other authorized officer. If a
partnership, please sign in partnership name by authorized persons.
Date
(mm/dd/yyyy) Please print date below.
Signature 1 Please keep signature within the box.
Signature 2 Please keep signature within the box.
IF VOTING BY MAIL, YOU MUST COMPLETE SECTIONS A C ON BOTH SIDES OF THIS CARD.