Stock-Based Compensation Plans

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2012

Stock-Based Compensation Plans [Abstract]

Stock-Based Compensation Plans

7. Stock-Based Compensation Plans

Our 2007 Stock Incentive Plan (the 2007 Plan) was adopted on May 24, 2007. Under this 2007 Plan, a total of 2,000,000 shares are authorized for stock based compensation in the form of either restricted stock or stock options. There have been 1,588,116 shares of restricted stock awarded to date. Two types of restricted stock were granted in 2009: 10,000 shares vesting over 4 years and 18,220 shares vesting on the first anniversary date from date of issuance. Two types of restricted stock were granted in 2010: 190,375 shares vesting over 4 years and 21,635 shares vesting on the first anniversary date from date of issuance. Two types of restricted stock were granted in 2011: 324,924 shares vesting over 4 years and 22,100 shares vesting on the first anniversary date from date of issuance. There were 171,000 shares granted in 2012 that vest over 4 years. The fair value of the restricted stock awards equaled the stock price at the date of grants. There were 33,043 shares of restricted stock awards granted in 2007 that were cancelled during 2008. There were 27,477 shares granted between 2008 and 2011 that were cancelled in 2011. There were 6,738 shares granted between 2010 and 2012 that were cancelled in 2012. All shares have reverted to the share reserve and are available for issuance at a later date, in accordance with the 2007 Plan.

Our accounting policy is to recognize the associated expense of such awards on a straight-line basis over the vesting period. Approximately $0.7 million in stock compensation expense was recorded in the three months ended March 31, 2012. The stock compensation expense related to the restricted stock awards will be recognized over the average remaining vesting period of 2.8 years and totals $7.8 million. At March 31, 2012, the intrinsic value of unvested restricted stock awards issued through March 31, 2012 is $10.0 million. The 2007 Plan terminates on May 24, 2017.

In the three months ended March 31, 2012, 83,069 options under the 1996 Stock Options/Stock Issuance Plan were exercised. There are 360,512 stock options remaining under the 1996 Stock Options/Stock Issuance Plan which have an intrinsic value of $2.3 million.