Washington Trust Bancorp, Inc. Announces Results of 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders

Westerly, RI, May 1, 2026 – Washington Trust Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq: WASH) has released the official results of its 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, held by remote communication on April 28, 2026. The meeting covered several matters of importance to shareholders, including director elections, auditor ratification, amendments to the company’s long-term incentive plan, and executive compensation.

Key Highlights from the 2026 Annual Meeting

• Strong Shareholder Participation: Of the 19,039,948 shares outstanding and eligible to vote as of March 3, 2026, a total of 16,321,159 shares, representing an impressive 85.7%, were voted in person or by proxy. This high participation underscores robust shareholder engagement.

Decisions and Voting Results

1. Election of Directors

Four directors were re-elected to serve three-year terms on the Board of Directors, receiving broad shareholder support:

• Robert A. DiMuccio, CPA – 12,642,254 votes for, 135,880 votes withheld, 3,543,025 broker non-votes.

Investor Impact: The continued service of experienced board members, including Mr. DiMuccio, ensures continuity of governance and strategic oversight.

2. Ratification of Independent Auditors

Shareholders overwhelmingly ratified the selection of Crowe LLP as the company’s independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2026, with the following vote tally:

• Votes For: 16,242,854
• Votes Against: 46,018
• Abstentions: 32,287
• Broker Non-Votes: —

Investor Impact: Crowe LLP’s continued engagement provides stability in financial reporting and audit processes, which can be viewed positively by the market.

3. Amendment to the 2022 Long Term Incentive Plan

Shareholders approved an amendment to the Washington Trust Bancorp, Inc. 2022 Long Term Incentive Plan, with the following results:

• Votes For: 12,126,399
• Votes Against: 557,449
• Abstentions: 94,286
• Broker Non-Votes: 3,543,025

Potential Share Price Sensitivity: Amendments to long-term incentive plans can have important implications for shareholder value, as they directly affect executive and employee compensation through stock-based awards. Such changes may impact future dilution, company costs, and management alignment with shareholder interests. Investors should monitor for further details on the nature of the amendments.

4. Advisory Vote on Executive Compensation (“Say-On-Pay”)

Shareholders approved, on a non-binding advisory basis, the compensation of Washington Trust Bancorp’s named executive officers:

• Votes For: 12,126,399
• Votes Against: 557,449
• Abstentions: 94,286
• Broker Non-Votes: 3,543,025

Investor Impact: A favorable Say-On-Pay vote is an endorsement of the company’s executive compensation practices, which may be viewed as a positive signal by the market. However, investors should consider the details of the compensation plan and any future changes.

Other Notable Disclosures

• Emerging Growth Company Status: The company is not an emerging growth company.
• No Written/Soliciting Communications or Tender Offers: The filing is not associated with any written communications, soliciting material, or pre-commencement tender offers, indicating no pending M&A or significant restructuring events at this time.

Security Information

• Common Stock: \$.0625 par value per share
• Trading Symbol: WASH
• Exchange: Nasdaq Global Select Market

Conclusion

The 2026 Annual Meeting reaffirmed shareholder support for current leadership, strategic direction, and executive compensation practices. The approval of an amendment to the Long Term Incentive Plan stands out as the most potentially price-sensitive item, as its structure impacts both shareholder dilution and management incentives. Investors should seek further details from the company regarding the specifics of this amendment.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Investors should review the company’s filings and consult with their financial advisors before making investment decisions. The author and publisher are not responsible for investment actions taken based on this news article.

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