By Tim McLaughlin

(Reuters) -Vistra CEO James Burke stands to receive about $340 million for helping lift the Texas-based utility from the ashes of bankruptcy nearly a decade ago to become the hottest power producer in the United States.

Vistra shares have returned about 450% since January 1, 2024, outpacing the S&P 500’s 42% gain tenfold.

During that time, the value of Burke’s vested stock-based pay has soared to about $340 million from $43 million, according to a Reuters analysis of stock option and restricted share grants since 2016.

This month, Burke has exercised some of those options, realizing more than $35 million in gross proceeds, company disclosures show.

Vistra did not return messages seeking comment.

Burke oversees a fleet of coal, gas and nuclear power plants occupying

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