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Also known as: options, employee stock options

Stock Options

ConceptualLegalFinance

Definition

Stock Options: Stock options give employees the right to purchase company shares at a fixed price (strike price) after vesting. Options are a common form of equity compensation, allowing employees to benefit from company growth while deferring payment until exercise.

Example Usage

β€œMy options have a $0.50 strike price; if we exit at $10/share, each option is worth $9.50.”

Common Misconceptions

Options are free equity. You must pay the strike price to own shares.
Options are always valuable. They're worthless if the strike price exceeds share value.
You have unlimited time to exercise. Options typically expire 90 days after leaving.

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