PROSPECTUS
1,500,000 Shares
Common Stock
CONSECO, INC.
To Be Issued under the Conseco, Inc. Producer Stock Award and Option Plan
We are offering shares of common stock pursuant to options and stock
awards granted under our Producer Stock Award and Option Plan, to certain
selected producers, agents and marketing organizations who market and sell our
insurance and other products. Our principal executive offices are located at
11825 North Pennsylvania Street, Carmel, Indiana 46032, and our telephone number
is (317) 817-6100.
The common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the
symbol "CNC". On September 14, 1999, the last reported sale price of the common
stock on the New York Stock Exchange was $22.4375 per share.
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These securities have not been approved by the SEC or any state
securities commission, nor have these organizations determined that this
prospectus is accurate or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a
criminal offense.
The date of this prospectus is September 15, 1999.
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ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS
In this prospectus, Conseco, Inc. may be referred to as "Conseco", the
"Company" or "we". This prospectus is part of a registration statement that we
filed with the SEC utilizing a "shelf" registration process. Under this shelf
process, we may, over the next two years, offer the right to purchase common
stock described in this prospectus in one or more offerings under the Conseco,
Inc. Producer Stock Award and Option Plan. This prospectus provides you with a
description of the common stock and the plan. You should read this prospectus
together with additional information described under the heading WHERE YOU CAN
FIND MORE INFORMATION.
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
We have filed annual, quarterly and special reports, proxy statements
and other information with the SEC. Our SEC filings are available to the public
over the Internet at the SEC's web site at http://www.sec.gov. You may read and
copy any document we file at the SEC's public reference rooms in Washington,
D.C., New York, New York, and Chicago, Illinois. Please call the SEC at
1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the public reference rooms.
Conseco has filed with the SEC a registration statement under the
Securities Act of 1933 to register the securities offered by this prospectus.
This prospectus constitutes only part of the registration statement and does not
contain all of the information in the registration statement and its exhibits
because certain parts are allowed to be omitted by SEC rules. Statements in this
prospectus about documents filed as an exhibit to the registration statement or
otherwise filed with the SEC are only summary statements and may not contain all
the information that may be important to you. For further information about us,
and the securities offered under this prospectus, you should read the
registration statement, including its exhibits and the documents incorporated
into it by reference. All of these documents can be examined at the SEC's
principal office, 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549, or copies can
be obtained from the SEC at such office upon payment of the required fees.
The SEC allows us to "incorporate by reference" the information we file
with them, which means that we can disclose important information to you by
referring you to those documents. The information incorporated by reference is
an important part of this prospectus. Information that we file later with the
SEC will automatically update and supersede this information. We incorporated by
reference the documents listed below and any future filings made with the SEC
under Sections 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
until we sell all of the securities offered under this prospectus.
1. Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31,
1998;
2. Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31,
1999 and June 30, 1999; and
3. The description of the common stock in the registration statements
filed by Conseco pursuant to Section 12 of the Exchange Act and
any amendment or report filed for the purpose of updating any such
description.
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You should rely only on the information incorporated by reference or
provided in this prospectus or any prospectus supplement. We have not authorized
anyone else to provide you with different information. We are not making an
offer of these securities in any state where the offer is not permitted. You
should not assume that the information in this prospectus is accurate as of any
date other than the date on the front of this prospectus.
You may request a copy of these filings at no cost, by writing or
telephoning us at the following address:
James W. Rosensteele, Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications
Conseco, Inc.
11825 N. Pennsylvania Street
Carmel, Indiana 46032
telephone: (317) 817-4418
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CONSECO, INC.
We are a financial services holding company. We conduct and manage our
business through two operating segments, reflecting our major lines of business:
o insurance and fee-based operations,
o and finance operations.
Our insurance subsidiaries develop, market and administer supplemental health
insurance, annuity, individual life insurance, individual and group major
medical insurance and other insurance products. Our finance subsidiaries
originate, purchase, sell and service consumer and commercial finance loans
throughout the United States. Since 1982, we have acquired 19 insurance groups.
In 1998, we acquired Green Tree Financial Corporation which comprises our
finance operations. Our operating strategy is to grow our businesses by focusing
our resources on the development and expansion of profitable products and strong
distribution channels, to seek to achieve superior investment returns through
active asset management and to control expenses.
Our executive offices are located at 11825 N. Pennsylvania Street, Carmel,
Indiana 46032, and our telephone number is (317) 817-6100.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PLAN
Background. Our Board of Directors has adopted the plan. The purpose of
the plan is to increase the financial identification of agents and marketing
organizations, referred to as "producers" in the plan, who market and sell the
insurance and other products of our subsidiaries with our long-term growth and
the interests of our shareholders. We believe that such increased identification
can be achieved through the ownership and performance of the common stock and
such ownership will enhance our ability to retain producers and to attract
outstanding prospective producers.
The summary of the plan which appears below is qualified in its
entirety by reference to the full text of the plan attached hereto as Annex 1.
Because the plan is not offered to employees, the plan is not a "qualified plan"
within the meaning of Section 401 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as
amended , and is not subject to the protective provisions of the Employee
Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended.
Types of Awards. The plan provides for the grant of awards of stock
options and awards of restricted or unrestricted stock. Awards may be made to
the same person on more than one occasion and may be granted singly, in
combination, or in tandem as determined by the Stock Award Committee of the
Board of Directors.
Term. The plan became effective as of May 13, 1997. The plan will
remain in effect until all awards have been satisfied or expired unless earlier
suspended or terminated. The plan may be suspended or terminated at any time by
the Board of Directors, but any such suspension or termination will not affect
awards made prior to such suspension or termination.
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Administration. The plan is administered by the Stock Award Committee.
The members of the Stock Award Committee are (i) the Chief Executive Officer,
(ii) the Chief Financial Officer and (iii) the Chief Marketing Officer of the
Company if they are also directors of the Company. If any such officer is not a
director, the Board of Directors may elect a member of the Board of Directors to
serve on the Stock Award Committee instead of such officer. Subject to the
provisions of the plan, the Stock Award Committee, consistent with the
provisions of the plan, will have sole authority acting in its sole discretion
to:
o select producers to receive awards,
o determine the timing, form, amount or value and terms of
awards, and the conditions and restrictions, if any, subject
to which awards will be made and become vested or exercisable
under the plan,
o construe the plan and to prescribe rules and regulations with
respect to the administration of the plan, and
o make such other determinations not inconsistent with the
provisions of the plan, as the Stock Award Committee deems
necessary or appropriate.
All decisions made by the Stock Award Committee shall be final, conclusive, and
binding on all participants in the plan.
Participants in the plan should contact the Secretary, Conseco, Inc.,
Legal Department, 11825 N. Pennsylvania Street, Carmel, Indiana 46032, (317)
817-6100 to obtain additional information with respect to the plan or the
administrators of the plan serving on the Stock Award Committee. The current
members of the Stock Award Committee are Messrs. Stephen C. Hilbert (Chairman)
and Rollin M. Dick and their address is Conseco, Inc., 11825 N. Pennsylvania
Street, Carmel, Indiana 46032.
Eligibility. Producers who market and sell insurance and other products
of our subsidiaries are eligible to participate in the plan. Awards under the
plan may be made or granted only to selected producers, agents or marketing
organizations. The selection of participants is within the sole discretion of
the Stock Award Committee.
Shares Subject to the Plan. The number of shares of Common stock which
may be issued pursuant to awards granted under the plan may not exceed
2,000,000, subject to adjustment as provided herein and in the plan.
Shares of common stock shall be deemed to be issued under the plan only
to the extent actually issued pursuant to the grant of a stock award or the
exercise of a stock option. To the extent that an award lapses or is forfeited,
any shares subject to such award shall again be made available for grant.
Stock Splits, Reorganizations and other Corporate Events. In the event
of any increases or decreases in the number of issued and outstanding shares of
common stock pursuant to stock splits, mergers, reorganizations,
recapitalizations, stock dividends or other events described under the terms of
the plan, appropriate adjustments will be made to the aggregate number of shares
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available for issuance under the plan and the number of shares subject to
outstanding stock awards and stock options, in the exercise price per share of
outstanding stock options and in the number and kinds of shares which may be
distributed under the plan. The terms of stock options and stock awards shall
also be subject to adjustments by the Stock Award Committee to reflect changes
in our capitalization.
Stock Options. The Stock Award Committee may grant awards in the form
of options to purchase shares of common stock. The Stock Award Committee will,
in its sole discretion with regard to each stock option, determine the number of
shares subject to the option, the manner and time of the option's exercise, the
exercise price of the option and such other terms and conditions including any
circumstances under which options would be subject to forfeiture, not
inconsistent with the provisions of the plan, as the Stock Award Committee may
prescribe. Upon exercise of an option, the exercise price may, at the discretion
of the Stock Award Committee, be paid by a participant in cash, shares of common
stock or a combination thereof. The Stock Award Committee will determine the
effect on the optionee's rights under an option in the event of the optionee's
termination as a producer (by reason of death, retirement, disability, or
otherwise). An option may not be exercised if the holder is then in default of
the payment of any obligations, including, but not limited to, agent debit
balances, owed to the Company or any subsidiary of the Company.
Options and Rights in Substitution for Stock Options Granted by other
Corporations. Options may be granted under the plan from time to time in
substitution for stock options held by individuals or entities who become
producers as a result of the merger or consolidation of the corporation with
which they had an agent relationship with the Company or any subsidiary of the
Company, or the acquisition by the Company or a subsidiary of the Company of the
assets of such corporation, or the acquisition by the Company or a subsidiary of
the Company of stock of such corporation with the result that such corporation
becomes a subsidiary of the Company.
Unrestricted Stock. The plan provides that unrestricted shares of
common stock may be awarded to producers from time to time as determined by the
Stock Award Committee upon such terms and conditions as the Stock Award
Committee may from time to time determine in its sole discretion.
Restricted Stock. The plan provides that shares of common stock subject
to certain restrictions may be awarded to producers from time to time as
determined by the Stock Award Committee. The Stock Award Committee will
determine the nature and extent of the restrictions on such shares, the duration
of such restrictions, and any circumstance under which restricted shares will be
forfeited. The Stock Award Committee will determine the effect on the
participant's rights under a stock award in the event of the termination of a
producer's status as such (by reason of retirement, disability, death or
otherwise) prior to the lapse of any applicable restrictions.
Awards Subject to Performance Criteria. On such terms and subject to
such conditions as the Stock Award Committee, in its sole discretion, may
determine, the Company may provide for options or stock awards to be granted in
the future to producers within a marketing organization
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of the Company or any of its subsidiaries or other producers subject to the
satisfaction of performance or other criteria. For example, the Stock Award
Committee may provide for stock options to be granted to producers within a
marketing organization after a calendar year in which the marketing organization
met a certain level of sales of insurance or other products of our subsidiaries.
Similarly, the exact amount of shares of common stock subject to such an option
and the exercise price therefor could be based upon formulas determined by the
Stock Award Committee, in its sole discretion.
Agreements, Programs, Rules, Other Arrangements. Each award under the
plan may be evidenced, recorded or disseminated by an agreement, the
promulgation of programs or rules or in such other manner and in such form and
containing such provisions not inconsistent with the provisions of the plan as
the Stock Award Committee from time to time approves. In applicable situations,
such agreements, programs, rules or other arrangements may include provisions
providing for the payment of the exercise price, in whole or in part, in cash or
by the delivery of common stock. Such agreements, programs, rules or other
arrangements may also include, without limitation, provisions relating to:
o vesting,
o tax matters (including provisions prohibiting a holder from
making an election under Section 83(b) of the Code), and
o any other matters not inconsistent with the provisions of the
plan that the Stock Award Committee, in its sole discretion,
determines.
The terms and conditions of agreements need not be similar or identical. The
Company shall have the right to deduct in cash in connection with all awards any
taxes required to be withheld and to require any payments required to enable it
to satisfy its withholding obligations.
Registration of Common Stock. The Company intends to make application
to the New York Stock Exchange for approval of the listing on the New York Stock
Exchange of the shares of common stock to be issued under the plan; however, the
Company will not be obligated to issue any shares of common stock under the plan
unless such shares have been registered under all applicable federal and state
securities and other laws and have been listed on the New York Stock Exchange.
Amendment. The Board of Directors may, in its sole discretion, at any
time or from time to time, terminate, suspend or amend the plan in any respect.
No amendment, suspension or termination of the plan shall, without the consent
of any optionee or participant in the plan adversely affected by such
termination, suspension or amendment, alter or impair the rights of such person
under any options or other awards previously granted under the plan.
Change of Control. The Stock Award Committee, in its sole discretion,
may determine that upon the occurrence of a change of control of the Company, an
award outstanding shall be adjusted, including, but not limited to:
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o termination of each award within a specified number of days
after notice to the holder and the receipt by such holder,
with respect to each share of common stock subject to such
award, of cash in an amount equal to the excess of (A) the
higher of (x) the fair market value of such share of common
stock immediately prior to the occurrence of such change of
control or (y) the value of the consideration to be received
for one share of common stock as a result of such change of
control over (B) the price per share, if applicable, of common
stock set forth in such award, or
o assumption of such award by the acquiring party.
If the consideration offered to shareholders of the Company in any change of
control transaction consists of anything other than cash, the Stock Award
Committee may, in its sole discretion, determine the fair cash equivalent of the
portion of the consideration offered which is other than cash. A change of
control of the Company is deemed to occur under the plan if:
o any "person," as such term is used in the securities laws
becomes the beneficial owner, directly or indirectly, of
securities of the Company representing 25% or more of the
combined voting power of our outstanding securities then
entitled to vote for the election of directors; or
o as the result of a tender offer, merger, consolidation, sale
of assets, or contest for election of directors, or any
combination of the foregoing transactions or events,
individuals who were members of the Board of Directors
immediately prior to any such transaction or event shall not
constitute a majority of the Board of Directors following such
transaction or event.
However, no change of control shall be deemed to have occurred if and when
either (A) any such change is the result of a transaction which constitutes a
"Rule 13e-3 transaction" under the securities laws or (B) any person becomes,
with the approval of the Board of Directors, the beneficial owner of securities
representing 25% or more but less than 50% of the combined voting power of our
then outstanding securities and in connection therewith represents, and at all
times continues to represent, in a filing, as amended, with the Securities and
Exchange Commission on Schedule 13D or Schedule 13G (or any successor Schedule
thereto) that "such person has acquired such securities for investment and not
with the purpose nor with the effect of changing or influencing the control of
the Company, nor in connection with or as a participant in any transaction
having such purpose or effect", or words of comparable meaning and import.
TAXATION OF AWARDS.
Stock Options. Under current federal income tax law, the grant of a
non-qualified stock option has no tax effect on the Company or the option holder
to whom it is granted. Generally, the Company will be allowed to take a
deduction for federal income tax purposes in an amount equal to the excess of
the fair market value of the shares at the time of exercise by the option holder
over the exercise price at the time the option holder exercises his or her stock
option. Generally, the exercise of the option will result in ordinary income to
the option holder equal to the amount of the deduction allowed to be taken by
the Company.
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If the option holder pays cash to exercise the option, the option
holder's tax basis in the shares received will be the aggregate exercise price
paid by the option holder plus the amount of taxable income recognized upon
exercise. Upon any subsequent disposition of such shares, gain or loss will be
capital gain or loss and will be long term if such shares are held more than the
required time period after exercise.
If the option holder pays the exercise price by delivering existing
shares of common stock, the tax treatment of the income from the difference
between the exercise price and the fair market value of the stock received is
the same as described above. Generally, the option holder will not recognize a
gain on the transfer of the option holder's existing stock. The corresponding
number of shares received on exercise of the option will be treated as if they
are the same as the shares used to pay for the exercise of the option. Thus,
gain on the shares used to pay the exercise price will be deferred until the
substituted shares received are later sold. The optionee must recognize ordinary
income equal to the fair market value of the number of shares acquired in excess
of the number of shares used for the stock option exercise (the "excess
shares"). The excess shares would then have a tax basis equal to the ordinary
income recognized. The Company would also be entitled to a deduction equal to
the ordinary income recognized by the optionee.
Effect of Restrictions. Under general tax rules, if the shares received
on exercise of non-qualified options are subject to restrictions on transfer and
risk of forfeiture, taxation of the transaction, and the Company's deduction,
will be deferred until the restrictions lapse, unless the participant makes an
election to be taxed at the time of exercise in which case a corresponding
deduction will be allowed for the Company. Award agreements or other
arrangements may prohibit a holder from making an election to be taxed before
the lapse of the restrictions.
Restricted Shares. An individual receiving restricted shares generally
will recognize ordinary income when the restrictions lapse in an amount equal to
the excess of the fair market value of the shares of common stock at the time
the restrictions lapse over any amount paid for the restricted shares. However,
the individual may elect, within 30 days after the date of receipt of the
restricted shares, to report ordinary income at the time of such receipt equal
to the excess of the fair market value of the restricted shares of common stock
at the time of such receipt over any amount paid for the restricted shares. One
risk in making such an election is that, if the restrictions fail to lapse for
any reason, the individual will not be entitled to a deduction. Generally, the
Company will be entitled to a deduction equal to the amount of income recognized
by the individual at the time income is recognized. An individual disposing of
restricted shares will recognize short term or long term capital gain or loss,
depending on whether their stock is held for less or more than one year from (a)
the date the restrictions lapse, if no election has been made, or (b) from the
date of receipt if an election has been made.
Unrestricted Shares. A participant receiving any award of unrestricted
shares of common stock will recognize income, and the Company will generally be
allowed a deduction, when the award is made. The amount of cash and the fair
market value of the shares of common stock received will be ordinary income to
the participant, and the Company will generally be entitled to a tax deduction
in an amount equal to the ordinary income recognized by the participant.
The foregoing is a general discussion of certain potential material
income tax aspects of the awards and is included for general information only.
The foregoing discussion does not take into account the particular facts and
circumstances or tax status or attributes of each participant.
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As a result, the income tax consequences addressed in the foregoing discussion
may not apply to each participant. Accordingly, each participant should consult
his own tax advisor regarding the specific tax consequences of awards,
including, but not limited to, the application and effect of federal, state,
local and other tax laws and the possible effects of changes in such laws.
PURCHASE OF COMMON STOCK PURSUANT TO STOCK OPTIONS UNDER THE PLAN
Method of Exercise. Options granted under the plan may only be
exercised by written notice to the Stock Award Committee or such other person
designated by the Stock Award Committee at Conseco, Inc., 11825 N. Pennsylvania
Street, Carmel, Indiana 46032. The notice must specify the exact name, address
and social security number of the optionee and list the options to be exercised.
The Company may from time to time require additional information in order to
effectuate the exercise. The notice must also state the method of payment of the
exercise price and be accompanied by such payment. The Company currently allows
several methods of payment as discussed below under "Payment for Shares." The
Stock Award Committee must approve any payment of the exercise price by any
method other than payment in cash.
Exercise Price. The Stock Award Committee determines the exercise price
per share in its sole discretion based upon such factors as it deems
appropriate.
Payment for Shares. The plan provides that shares purchased through the
exercise of an option must be paid for in full in the manner prescribed by
the Stock Award Committee. The following payment methods are currently
permitted:
o in cash (checks made payable to "Conseco, Inc." are
acceptable);
o with a number of shares of common stock held by a participant
for at least six months and having a fair market value equal
to the exercise price;
o pursuant to a "cashless" exercise program through a broker,
bank, or other financial intermediary acceptable to the
Company, where the Company has received adequate assurances
that the exercise price and any required tax withholdings will
be paid to the Company; or
o any combination of the three options listed above.
The certificates evidencing the shares to be used for payment must be endorsed
in blank as specified on the reverse side of such certificates.
Rights as a Stockholder. No stock will be issued until payment is
received, and as a holder of options, an optionee has no rights as a stockholder
of the Company until the option is exercised and the stock is issued. If an
optionee chooses to use shares of common stock to pay all or a portion of an
option exercise price, the shares of stock surrendered in payment will be valued
at the closing price on the date written notice of exercise is received by the
Company and, for dividend payment purposes, shall not be canceled and therefore
shall be deemed to be outstanding until new certificates for the option shares
so purchased are issued.
LIMITATIONS ON EXERCISE OF STOCK OPTIONS
Maximum Exercise Period. While the plan contains certain specific
provisions pertaining to the exercise and lapse of options upon death,
termination of employment or retirement, the plan does not specify the length of
time an option granted under the plan may be exercisable from the
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date it was granted. The Stock Award Committee establishes such a period for
each grant of options.
Death. If an optionee dies while a producer, then vested options may be
exercised within twelve months of the date of death by the executor or
administrator of the optionee's estate or the optionee's legatees or heirs but
only within the original term of the option and only to the extent the deceased
optionee could have exercised the option on the date of death. Unvested options
may not be exercised.
Termination of Status as a Producer. Vested options may be exercisable
for up to three months following termination of status as a producer for reasons
other than death, permanent and total disability, for cause or voluntarily
without the Company's written consent. Unvested options may not be exercised.
Disability. If an optionee's status as a producer terminates due to
permanent and total disability, the optionee may exercise any outstanding vested
options, to the extent exercisable at the time of termination, within twelve
months of the date terminated. Unvested options may not be exercised.
ASSIGNMENT OF AWARDS
Pursuant to the tax laws and the provisions of the plan, except for
unrestricted stock awards, awards granted under the plan to a natural person are
not transferable other than by will or the laws of descent and distribution and
exercisable only by or on behalf of, the person to whom the option was granted
or by his or her estate or heirs as described above. However, the Stock Award
Committee may, in its sole discretion, provide for or permit the transfer of
awards by gift to any member of a holder's immediate family or to a trust for
the benefit of such immediate family member. Except for unrestricted stock
awards, awards granted to a corporation or other entity shall not be
transferrable and are exercisable only by such holder or, if permitted by the
Stock Award Committee in its sole discretion, by such holder's successors by
merger, consolidation, reorganization or liquidation.
Except for unrestricted stock awards and except as permitted under the
plan, no awards or interest therein may be transferred, assigned, pledged or
hypothecated by the holder thereof, or be made subject to levy, execution,
attachment or similar process, by operation of law or otherwise.
USE OF PROCEEDS
The purpose of the plan is to provide an additional incentive for
eligible participants to market and sell the insurance and other products of our
subsidiaries and to generally promote the success of our business, rather than
to obtain proceeds for any particular purpose. The net proceeds that become
available to the Company through the exercise of options and sales of common
stock pursuant to the terms of the plan are expected to be used for general
corporate purposes.
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LEGAL MATTERS
The legal validity of the common stock has been passed upon by John J.
Sabl, Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of Conseco. Mr.
Sabl is a full-time employee of Conseco and owns, directly and indirectly,
80,000 shares and holds options to purchase 450,000 shares of common stock.
EXPERTS
The consolidated financial statements of Conseco at December 31, 1998
and 1997, and for each of the three years ended December 31, 1998, which are
incorporated by reference in this prospectus, have been audited by
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent accountants, as set forth in their
report thereon, which as to the years 1997 and 1996, insofar as such financial
statements relate to Green Tree Financial Corporation, is based on the report of
KPMG LLP, independent auditors. The financial statements referred
to above are incorporated herein by reference in reliance upon such reports
given upon the authority of such firms as experts in accounting and auditing.
CONTINUOUS OFFERING PURSUANT TO RULE 415
The common stock offered hereby is being registered on a delayed or
continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 of the Commission for purposes of allowing
the exercise of options by optionees in accordance with the terms of the plan.
As set forth above under the caption "INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN DOCUMENTS BY
REFERENCE," information concerning the Company and the common stock is available
from reports filed by the Company with the Commission in current reports on Form
8-K, quarterly reports on Form 10- Q, and annual reports on Form 10-K. All
optionees are encouraged to carefully review the current information before
making decisions concerning the exercise of options granted pursuant to the
plan.
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ANNEX 1
CONSECO, INC.
PRODUCER STOCK AWARD AND OPTION PLAN
(As amended February 24, 1999)
ARTICLE I.
Purpose
The purpose of the CONSECO, INC. PRODUCER STOCK AWARD AND OPTION PLAN (the
"Plan") is to provide a means through which CONSECO, INC., an Indiana
corporation (the "Company"), can provide incentives to increase the financial
identification of producers, agents or marketing organizations who market and
sell insurance and other products of the subsidiaries of the Company
("Producers") with the long-term growth of the Company and the interests of the
Company's shareholders through the ownership and performance of the Company's
Common Stock and to enhance the Company's ability to retain and to attract such
producers, agents or marketing organizations. Accordingly, the Plan provides for
the granting of Stock Options, Stock Awards or any combination of the foregoing,
as is best suited under the circumstances.
ARTICLE II.
Definitions
The following definitions shall be applicable throughout the Plan unless
specifically modified by any paragraph:
(a) "Award" means, individually or collectively, any Option or
Stock Award.
(b) "Board" means the Board of Directors of the Company.
(c) A "Change of Control" of the Company shall mean a change of
control of a nature that would be required to be reported in response
to Item 6(e) of Schedule 14A of Regulation 14A promulgated under the
1934 Act as revised effective January 20, 1987, or, if Item 6(e) is no
longer in effect, any regulations issued by the Securities and
Exchange
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Commission pursuant to the 1934 Act which serve similar purposes;
provided, that, without limitation, (x) such a change of control shall
be deemed to have occurred if and when either (A) except as provided
in (y) below, any "person" (as such term is used in Sections 13(d) and
14(d) of the 1934 Act) is or becomes a "beneficial owner" (as such
term is defined in Rule 13d-3 promulgated under the 1934 Act),
directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing 25%
or more of the combined voting power of the Company's then outstanding
securities entitled to vote with respect to the election of its Board
of Directors or (B) as the result of a tender offer, merger,
consolidation, sale of assets, or contest for election of directors,
or any combination of the foregoing transactions or events,
individuals who were members of the Board of Directors of the Company
immediately prior to any such transaction or event shall not
constitute a majority of the Board of Directors following such
transaction or event, and (y) no such change of control shall be
deemed to have occurred if and when either (A) any such change is the
result of a transaction which constitutes a "Rule 13e-3 transaction"
as such term is defined in Rule 13e-3 promulgated under the 1934 Act
or (B) any such person becomes, with the approval of the Board of
Directors of the Company, the beneficial owner of securities of the
Company representing 25% or more but less than 50% of the combined
voting power of the Company's then outstanding securities entitled to
vote with respect to the election of its Board of Directors and in
connection therewith represents, and at all times continues to
represent, in a filing, as amended, with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on Schedule 13D or Schedule 13G (or any successor Schedule
thereto) that "such person has acquired such securities for investment
and not with the purpose nor with the effect of changing or
influencing the control of the Company, nor in connection with or as a
participant in any transaction having such purpose or effect," or
words of comparable meaning and import. The designation by any such
person, with the approval of the Board of Directors of the Company, of
a single individual to serve as a member of, or observer at meetings
of, the Company's Board of Directors, shall not be considered
"changing or influencing the control of the Company" within the
meaning of the immediately preceding clause (B), so long as such
individual does not constitute at any time more than one-third of the
total number of directors serving on such Board.
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(d) "Common Stock" means the common stock, no par value per
share, of the Company.
(e) "Company" means Conseco, Inc., an Indiana corporation, and
any successor thereto.
(f) "1934 Act" means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended.
(g) "Exercise Price" means the price established by the Stock
Award Committee as the consideration that must be paid to purchase
Common Stock pursuant to the exercise of an Option.
(h) "Fair Market Value" means, as of any specified date, the
mean of the reported high and low sales prices of the Common Stock on
the stock exchange composite tape on that date, or if no prices are
reported on that date, on the last preceding date on which such prices
of Common Stock are so reported. If the Common Stock is traded over
the counter at the time a determination of its fair market value is
required to be made hereunder, its fair market value shall be deemed
to be equal to the average of the closing bid and asked prices of
Common Stock for the time period and business days specified in an
Award Agreement. In the event Common Stock is not publicly traded at
the time a determination of this value is required to be made
hereunder, the determination of its fair market value shall be made by
the Stock Award Committee in such manner as it deems appropriate.
(i) "Holder" means a Producer who has been granted an Award.
(j) "Option" means an Award granted under Article VII of the
Plan.
(k) "person" means an individual, corporation, partnership,
limited liability company, proprietorship or joint venture.
(l) "Plan" means Conseco, Inc. Producer Stock Award and Option
Plan, as amended from time to time.
(m) "Producer" means any person or marketing organization
appointed or contracted to sell insurance or any other products of the
Company or its subsidiaries in an agency,
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brokerage or similar relationship with the Company or its subsidiaries
or any entity or person who supervises or manages the activities of
such persons.
(n) "Stock Award" means an Award granted under Article VIII of
the Plan.
(o) "Stock Award Committee" means a committee consisting of
three members of the Board which shall include the Chief Executive
Officer of the Company, the Chief Marketing Officer of the Company and
the Chief Financial Officer of the Company, if such officers are
members of the Board. If any such officer is not a Director, the Board
may elect a member of the Board to serve on the Stock Award Committee
instead of such officer. The Chief Marketing Officer shall be the
chairman of the Stock Award Committee.
(p) "Total and Permanent Disability" means the inability of as a
Producer to provide meaningful service for the Company and its
subsidiaries as a Producer due to a medically determinable physical or
mental impairment. Such determination of total and permanent
disability shall be made by the Stock Award Committee.
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ARTICLE III.
Effective Date and Duration of the Plan
The Plan shall be effective as of May 13, 1997, the date of its
adoption by the Board. The Plan shall remain in effect until all Awards granted
under the Plan have been satisfied or expired unless earlier suspended or
terminated as permitted herein.
ARTICLE IV.
Administration of the Plan
Section 4.01 Administration by the Stock Award Committee. The Plan
shall be administered by the Stock Award Committee.
Section 4.02 Powers. Subject to the provisions of the Plan, the Stock
Award Committee, consistent with the provisions of the Plan, shall have sole
authority, in its sole discretion (i) to select Producers to receive Awards,
(ii) to determine the timing, form, amount or value and terms of Awards, and the
conditions and restrictions, if any, subject to which Awards will be made and
become vested or exercisable under the Plan, (iii) to construe the Plan and to
prescribe rules and regulations with respect to the administration of the Plan
and (iv) to make such other determinations not inconsistent with the Plan, as
the Stock Award Committee deems necessary or appropriate. In making such
determinations the Stock Award Committee may take into account the nature of the
services rendered by the Producers, their present and potential contributions to
the Company's success, the recommendations of marketing organizations under whom
the Producers may be sub-agents and such other factors as the Stock Award
Committee in its sole discretion shall deem relevant.
Section 4.03 Additional Powers. The Stock Award Committee shall have
such additional powers as may be required to enable it to administer the Plan
and to carry out its duties hereunder. The Stock Award Committee may correct any
defect or supply any omission or reconcile any inconsistency in any agreement
relating to an Award in the manner and to the extent it shall deem expedient to
carry it into effect. The determinations of the Stock Award Committee on the
matters referred to in this Article IV shall be conclusive.
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ARTICLE V.
Grant of Options and Stock Awards;
Shares Subject to the Plan
Section 5.01 Stock Grant and Award Limits. The Stock Award Committee may
from time to time grant Awards to one or more Producers determined by it to be
eligible for participation in the Plan in accordance with the provisions of
Article VI. The Stock Award Committee may from time to time cause the Company to
enter into commitments to grant Awards in the future based upon the achievement
of performance and other criteria. Subject to Article X, the aggregate number of
shares of Common Stock that may be issued under the Plan shall not exceed
2,000,000 shares. Shares shall be deemed to have been issued under the Plan only
to the extent actually issued and delivered pursuant to an Award. To the extent
that an Award lapses or the rights of its Holder terminate, any shares of Common
Stock subject to such Award shall again be available for the grant of an Award.
Stock certificates shall be issued by the Company for those shares acquired
pursuant to a Stock Award or the exercise of an Option.
Section 5.02 Stock Offered. The stock to be offered pursuant to the grant
of an Award may be authorized but unissued Common Stock or Common Stock
previously issued and outstanding and reacquired by the Company.
ARTICLE VI.
Eligibility
Awards made pursuant to the Plan may be granted only to persons who, at
the time of grant, are Producers. An Award may be granted on more than one
occasion to the same person, and, subject to the limitations set forth in the
Plan, such Award may include Options, Stock Awards or any combination thereof.
ARTICLE VII.
Stock Options
Section 7.01 Option Period. The term of each Option shall be as specified
by the Stock Award Committee at the date of grant.
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Section 7.02 Limitations on Exercise of Option. An Option shall vest
and/or be exercisable in whole or in part and at such times as may be determined
by the Stock Award Committee, in its sole discretion, at the date of grant.
Section 7.03 Option Agreements, Programs, Rules, Other Arrangements. Each
Option may be evidenced, recorded or disseminated by an agreement, the
promulgation of programs or rules or in such other manner and in such form and
containing such provisions not inconsistent with the provisions of the Plan as
the Stock Award Committee from time to time, in its sole discretion, shall
approve. Such agreements, programs, rules or other arrangements may provide for
the payment of the Exercise Price, in whole or in part, in cash, by the delivery
of Common Stock or any combination thereof, or for a "cashless exercise" of the
Option. Moreover, such agreements, programs, rules or other arrangements may
also include provisions relating to vesting, tax matters and any other matters
not inconsistent with the terms and provisions of this Plan that the Stock Award
Committee, in its sole discretion, determines to be appropriate. The terms and
conditions relating to different grants of Options and the related agreements,
programs, rules or other arrangements need not be similar or identical.
Section 7.04 Exercise Price and Payment. The Exercise Price shall be
determined by the Stock Award Committee, but such Exercise Price shall be
subject to adjustment as provided in Article X. The Option may be exercised, in
whole or in part, as provided by the Stock Award Committee. An Option may not be
exercised if the Holder is then in default in the payment of any obligations,
including, but not limited to, agent debit balances owed to the Company or any
of its subsidiaries. The Exercise Price of an Option shall be paid in full in
the manner prescribed by the Stock Award Committee.
Section 7.05 Shareholder Rights and Privileges. The Holder of an Option
shall be entitled to the privileges and rights of a shareholder as to the Common
Stock which is the subject of an Option only with respect to such shares of
Common Stock as have been purchased under the Option and registered in the
Holder's name.
Section 7.06 Options and Rights in Substitution for Stock Options Granted
by Other Corporations. Options may be granted under the Plan from time to time
in substitution for stock options held by individuals who become Producers as a
result of a merger or
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consolidation of the corporation with whom they had an
agent relationship with the Company or any subsidiary of the Company, or the
acquisition by the Company or a subsidiary of the Company of the assets of such
corporation, or the acquisition by the Company or a subsidiary of the Company of
stock of such corporation with the result that such corporation becomes a
subsidiary of the Company.
ARTICLE VIII.
Stock Awards
Section 8.01 Restriction Period To Be Established by the Stock Award
Committee. At the time a Stock Award is made, the Stock Award Committee may
establish a period of time for which restrictions (the "Restriction Period") are
applicable to such Award. Each Stock Award may have a different Restriction
Period, in the sole discretion of the Stock Award Committee. The Restriction
Period applicable to a particular Stock Award shall not be changed except as
permitted by Section 8.02.
Section 8.02 Other Terms and Conditions. Common Stock awarded pursuant to
a Stock Award shall be represented by a stock certificate registered in the name
of the Holder of such Stock Award. Such Common Stock shall be issued subject to
such terms and containing such provisions as the Stock Award Committee, in its
sole discretion consistent with the provisions of the Plan, may prescribe by
agreement, the promulgation of programs, rules or in such other manner as the
Stock Award Committee shall from time to time approve. If provided for by the
Stock Award Committee, in its sole discretion, the Holder shall have the right
to receive dividends during the Restriction Period, to vote Common Stock subject
thereto and to enjoy all other shareholder rights, except that (i) the Holder
may not sell, transfer, pledge, exchange, hypothecate or otherwise dispose of
the stock during the Restriction Period, and (ii) a breach of the terms and
conditions established by the Stock Award Committee, shall cause a forfeiture of
the Stock Award. At the time of such Award, the Stock Award Committee may, in
its sole discretion, prescribe additional terms, conditions or restrictions
relating to Stock Awards, including, but not limited to, rules pertaining to the
termination of service as a Producer (by retirement, disability, death or
otherwise) of a Holder prior to expiration of the Restriction Period. Such
additional terms, conditions or restrictions may also include, without
limitation, provisions relating to tax matters and any
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other matters not inconsistent with the provisions of this Plan that the Stock
Award Committee, in its sole discretion determines, to be appropriate. The terms
and conditions of the respective agreements, programs, rules or other
arrangement relating to Stock Awards need not be similar or identical.
Section 8.03 Payment for Stock Award. The Stock Award Committee shall
determine the amount and form of any payment for Common Stock received pursuant
to a Stock Award, provided that in the absence of such a determination, a Holder
shall not be required to make any payment for Common Stock received pursuant to
a Stock Award, except to the extent otherwise required by law.
Section 8.04 Agreements. The Stock Award Committee, in its sole
discretion, may require the Company and the Holder to enter into an agreement
with respect to Stock Awards granted hereunder setting forth each of the matters
contemplated hereby and such other matters as the Stock Award Committee may
determine to be appropriate. The terms and provisions of such agreements need
not be similar or identical.
ARTICLE IX.
Future Awards
The Company may grant future Awards to marketing organizations of the
Company or any of its subsidiaries and other Producers on such terms as the
Stock Award Committee may determine. Any such grant shall be evidenced, recorded
or disseminated by an agreement by the promulgation of programs or rules or in
such other manner and in such form and containing such provisions not
inconsistent with the provisions of the Plan as the Stock Award Committee from
time to time approves.
ARTICLE X.
Recapitalization or Reorganization
Section 10.01 The shares with respect to which Awards may be granted are
shares of Common Stock as presently constituted, but if, and whenever, prior to
the expiration or satisfaction in full of an Award theretofore granted, the
Company shall effect a subdivision or consolidation of shares of Common Stock or
the
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payment of a stock dividend on Common Stock without receipt of consideration by
the Company, the number of shares of Common Stock with respect to which such
Award may thereafter be exercised or satisfied, as applicable, (i) in the event
of an increase in the number of outstanding shares shall be proportionately
increased, and the purchase price per share shall be proportionately reduced,
and (ii) in the event of a reduction in the number of outstanding shares shall
be proportionately reduced, and the purchase price per share shall be
proportionately increased.
Section 10.02 If the Company recapitalizes or otherwise changes its
capital structure, thereafter upon any exercise of an Option or purchase under a
Stock Award, as applicable, of an Award theretofore granted the Holder shall be
entitled to (or entitled to purchase, if applicable) under such Award, in lieu
of the number of shares of Common Stock then covered by such Award, the number
and class of shares of stock and securities to which the Holder would have been
entitled pursuant to the terms of the recapitalization if, immediately prior to
such recapitalization, the Holder had been the holder of record of the number of
shares of Common Stock then covered by such Award.
Section 10.03 The Stock Award Committee, in its sole discretion, may
determine that, upon the occurrence of a Change of Control, each Award
outstanding hereunder shall be adjusted to effect such Change of Control,
including, but not limited to (a) termination of each Award within a specified
number of days after notice to the Holder, and such Holder shall receive, with
respect to each share of Common Stock subject to such Award, cash in an amount
equal to the excess of (i) the higher of (x) the Fair Market Value of such share
of Common Stock immediately prior to the occurrence of such Change of Control or
(y) the value of the consideration to be received in connection with such Change
of Control for one share of Common Stock over (ii) the Exercise Price per share,
if applicable, of Common Stock set forth in such Award or (b) assumption of each
Award by the acquiring party. If the consideration offered to shareholders of
the Company in any transaction described in this paragraph consists of anything
other
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than cash, the Stock Award Committee shall determine the fair cash equivalent of
the portion of the consideration offered which is other than cash.
Section 10.04 In the event of changes in the outstanding Common Stock by
reason of recapitalization, reorganizations, mergers, consolidations,
combinations, exchanges or other relevant changes in capitalization occurring
after the date of the grant of any Award and not otherwise provided for by this
Article X, any outstanding Awards and any agreements or other arrangements
relating to such Awards shall be subject to adjustment by the Stock Award
Committee at its discretion as to the number and price of shares of Common Stock
or other consideration subject to such Awards. In the event of any such change
in the outstanding Common Stock, the aggregate number of shares available under
the Plan may be appropriately adjusted by the Stock Award Committee, whose
determination shall be conclusive.
Section 10.05 The existence of the Plan and the Awards granted hereunder
shall not affect in any way the right or power of the Board or the shareholders
of the Company to make or authorize any adjustment, recapitalization,
reorganization or other change in the Company's capital structure or its
business, any merger or consolidation of the Company, any issue of debt or
equity securities ahead of or affecting Common Stock or the rights thereof, the
dissolution or liquidation of the Company or any sale, lease, exchange or other
disposition of all or any part of its assets or business or any other corporate
act or proceeding.
Section 10.06 Any adjustment provided for in Sections 10.01, 10.02, 10.03
and 10.04 above shall be subject to any required shareholder action.
Section 10.07 Except as hereinbefore expressly provided, the issuance by
the Company of shares of stock of any class or securities convertible into
shares of stock of any class, for cash, property, labor or services, upon direct
sale, upon the exercise of rights or warrants to subscribe therefor, or upon
conversion of shares of obligations of the Company convertible into such shares
or other securities, and in any case whether or not for fair value, shall not
affect, and no adjustment by reason thereof shall be made with respect to the
number of shares of Common Stock subject to Awards theretofore granted or the
purchase price per share, if applicable.
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ARTICLE XI.
Amendment, Suspension and Termination of the Plan
The Board may, at any time and from time to time in its sole
discretion, terminate, suspend or amend the Plan in any respect. No amendment,
suspension or termination of the Plan shall, without the consent of any optionee
or participant in the Plan adversely affected by such termination, suspension or
amendment, alter or impair the rights of such person under any options or other
awards previously granted under the Plan.
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ARTICLE XII.
Miscellaneous
Section 12.01 No Right To An Award. Neither the adoption of the Plan by
the Company nor any action of the Board or the Stock Award Committee shall be
deemed to give a Producer any right to be granted an Award to purchase Common
Stock or a Stock Award or any of the rights hereunder except as may be evidenced
by an Award and the agreement, program, rule or other arrangement promulgated or
established by the Stock Award Committee with respect to such Award, and then
only to the extent and on the terms and conditions expressly set forth therein.
The Plan shall be unfunded. The Company shall not be required to establish any
special or separate fund or to make any other segregation of funds or assets to
assure the payment of any Award.
Section 12.02 No Right to Continued Status as Producer or Employment
Conferred. Nothing contained in the Plan shall (i) confer upon any Producer any
right with respect to continuation of such status with the Company or any
subsidiary, (ii) interfere in any way with the right of the Company or any
subsidiary to terminate his or her service as a Producer at any time or (iii)
result in the establishment of any employer-employee relationship.
Section 12.03. Non-exclusivity of the Plan. The adoption of the Plan by
the Board of Directors of the Company shall not be construed as creating any
limitations on the power of the Board of Directors to adopt such other incentive
arrangements as it may deem desirable, including without limitation, the
granting of stock awards or stock options otherwise than under the Plan.
Section 12.04. Notices. All notices or other communications by an Eligible
Participant to the Company under or in connection with the Plan shall be deemed
to have been given when received by the Company in the form specified by the
Company (if applicable) at the location, and by the person, specified by the
Company for the receipt thereof. All notices to Eligible Participants under or
in connection with the Plan shall be deemed to have been given when mailed or
otherwise given in the manner specified by the Stock
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Award Committee to the Eligible Participant at the address provided by the
Eligible Participant to the Company for the receipt thereof.
Section 12.05 Other Laws; Fractional Shares; Withholding. The Company
shall not be obligated to issue any Common Stock pursuant to any Award granted
under the Plan at any time when the shares covered by such Award have not been
registered under the Securities Act of 1933 and such other state and federal
laws, rules or regulations as the Company or the Stock Award Committee deems
applicable and, in the opinion of legal counsel for the Company, there is no
exemption from the registration requirements of such laws, rules or regulations
available for the issuance and sale of such shares. In addition, the Company
shall not be obligated to issue any Common Stock pursuant to any Award granted
under the Plan prior to the acceptance of a supplemental listing application
with respect to such Common Stock by a national securities exchange or the
filing of a notification of listing of additional shares with an interdealer
quotation system, all as deemed necessary or appropriate by counsel for the
Company. No fractional shares of Common Stock shall be delivered, nor shall any
cash in lieu of fractional shares be paid. The Company shall have the right to
deduct in cash (whether under this Plan or otherwise) in connection with all
Awards any taxes required by law to be withheld and to require any payments
required to enable it to satisfy its withholding obligations. In the case of any
Award satisfied in the form of Common Stock, no shares shall be issued unless
and until arrangements satisfactory to the Company shall have been made to
satisfy any withholding tax obligations applicable with respect to such Award.
Subject to such terms and conditions as the Stock Award Committee may impose,
the Company shall have the right to retain, or the Stock Award Committee may,
subject to such terms and conditions as it may establish from time to time,
permit Holders to elect to tender Common Stock (including Common Stock issuable
in respect of an Award) to satisfy, in whole or in part, the amount required to
be withheld.
Section 12.06 No Restriction on Corporate Action. Nothing contained in the
Plan shall be construed to prevent the Company or any of its subsidiaries from
taking any corporate action which is deemed by the Company or such subsidiary to
be appropriate or in its best interest, whether or not such action would have an
adverse effect on the Plan or any Award made under the Plan. No Producer,
beneficiary or other person shall have any claim against the Company or any
subsidiary as a result of any such action.
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Section 12.07 Restrictions on Transfer of Awards Held by a Natural Person.
Except for unrestricted Stock Awards, an Award shall not be transferable except
(i) by will or the laws of descent and distribution, or (ii) by gift to any
member of the Holder's immediate family or to a trust for the benefit of such
immediate family member, if permitted in the applicable Award Agreement. Except
as may be provided in an Award Agreement, an award may be exercisable during the
lifetime of the Holder only by such Holder or the Holder's guardian or legal
representative.
Section 12.08 Restrictions on Transfer of Awards Held by a Corporation or
Entity. Except for unrestricted Stock Awards, Awards granted to a Holder that is
not a natural person shall not be transferrable, and may be exercised only by
such Holder, or by such Holder's successor by merger, consolidation,
reorganization, or liquidation, if the Board or the Stock Award Committee
determines in its sole discretion, to permit the transfer of such Award in
connection with such merger, consolidation, reorganization, or liquidation, but
in no event may any Award be exercised after the expiration of the term of the
Award provided by the Stock Award Committee.
Section 12.09 Other Restrictions on Transfer. Except for unrestricted
Stock Awards and except as permitted under the Plan, no Awards or interest
therein may be transferred, assigned, pledged or hypothecated by the Holder, by
operation of law or otherwise, and any attempt to do so shall be void. No award
or interest therein shall be made subject to levy, execution, attachment or
similar process, and any attempt to levy, execute, attach, or otherwise transfer
the Award or any interest therein or to place a lien upon the same shall be
void.
Section 12.10 Governing Law. This Plan shall be construed in accordance
with the laws of the State of Indiana.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
PROSPECTUS
About this Prospectus....................................................... 2
Where You Can Find More Information......................................... 2
Conseco, Inc ............................................................... 4
Description of the Plan..................................................... 4
Use of Proceeds............................................................. 11
Legal Matters............................................................... 12
Experts..................................................................... 12
Continuous Offering Pursuant to Rule 415.................................... 12
Annex 1: Conseco, Inc. Producer Stock Award and Option Plan, as amended .... A-1
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