During his time at First Merchants Corporation, Michael L. Cox held a substantial number of shares, reflecting his commitment to the company’s success. By 2006, he owned around 65,000 shares from stock options. His wealth in company holdings and stock...

During his time at First Merchants Corporation, Michael L. Cox held a substantial number of shares, reflecting his commitment to the company’s success. By 2006, he owned around 65,000 shares from stock options. His wealth in company holdings and stock options demonstrated confidence in the firm’s future. Michael Cox had previously received stock grants and options that were structured to incentivize long-term performance, which illustrates his strategic focus on aligning his interests with those of the shareholders. Towards the end of his tenure, his stock ownership was part of a broader effort by First Merchants to foster a culture of accountability among its executives, showing that he was deeply invested in the firm’s growth.