Trevi Therapeutics, Inc. current report, 13 February 2020

Business Context and Reporting Period

This Form 8-K filing by Trevi Therapeutics, Inc. (TRVI) reports a corporate governance event dated February 13, 2020. The company is a Delaware corporation with principal executive offices in New Haven, Connecticut, and its common stock trades on The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC.

Key Financial Metrics

The filing text does not provide a clear value for revenue, profit, cash flow, margins, debt, or liquidity. This report focuses exclusively on the appointment of a new director and associated compensation arrangements.

Material Changes

The primary material change reported is the election of James V. Cassella, Ph.D., to the Board of Directors as a Class I Director, effective immediately. His term expires at the 2020 annual meeting of stockholders. Dr. Cassella brings significant experience from Concert Pharmaceuticals, Alexza Pharmaceuticals, and Neurogen Corporation.

Compensation and Contingencies

  • Cash Retainer: Dr. Cassella will receive an annual cash retainer of $35,000, payable quarterly in arrears.
  • Stock Option Grant: Upon election, Dr. Cassella was granted an option to purchase 23,684 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $5.50 per share.
  • Vesting Schedule: 50% of the shares vest on the earlier of the first anniversary of the grant date or the first annual meeting of stockholders; the remainder vests on the earlier of the second anniversary or the second annual meeting.
  • Change in Control: The option becomes exercisable in full upon a change in control of the Company.
  • Indemnification: Dr. Cassella entered into a standard indemnification agreement, under which the Company may be required to cover expenses, judgments, fines, and settlement amounts arising from his service as a director.

Investor Verification Checklist

  • Verify the current share price relative to the $5.50 exercise price of the granted options.
  • Review the full director compensation program details in Exhibit 10.7 of the Company's Form S-1 (File No. 333-230745).
  • Confirm the specific vesting dates based on the timing of the 2020 and 2021 annual meetings of stockholders.
  • Assess the potential financial impact of the indemnification agreement on the Company's liabilities.