Why do startups use options instead of RSUs?
Companies move from issuing employee stock options to restricted stock units (RSU) as they become larger for at least the following reasons: The value of RSUs are easier to understand compared to the upside of options. The cost to exercising options becomes too large of a burden for employees.
Can you sell startup options?
About half of startups will allow you to sell, and there are now some non-traditional forward contract options if your company does not allow a traditional sale. Companies must consider whether sales could influence their 409A valuation.
How do I exercise stock options?
Exercise your stock options to buy shares of your company stock, then sell just enough of the company shares (at the same time) to cover the stock option cost, taxes, and brokerage commissions and fees. The proceeds you receive from an exercise-and-sell-to-cover transaction will be shares of stock.
Should I pick options or RSUs?
Stock options are only valuable if the market value of the stock is higher than the grant price at some point in the vesting period. Otherwise, you’re paying more for the shares than you could in theory sell them for. RSUs, meanwhile, are pure gain, as you don’t have to pay for them.
How do stock options work for startups?
Types of startup stock options Stock options aren’t actual shares of stock—they’re the right to buy a set number of company shares at a fixed price, usually called a grant price, strike price, or exercise price. Because your purchase price stays the same, if the value of the stock goes up, you could make money on the difference.
What is a stock option plan and how does it work?
A Stock Option Plan gives the company the flexibility to award stock options to employees, officers, directors, advisors, and consultants, allowing these people to buy stock in the company when they exercise the option. Stock Option Plans permit employees to share in the company’s success without requiring a startup business to spend precious cash.
How many stock options does a company give to its employees?
The number of options that a company will grant its employees varies, depending on the company. It will also depend on the seniority and special skills of the employee. Investors and other stake holders have to sign off before any employee can receive stock options. To help you understand how stock options work, let’s walk through a simple example.
What happens to stock options when a company is acquired?
Until the company creates a public market for its stock or is acquired, the options will not be the equivalent of cash benefits. And, if the company does not grow bigger and its stock does not become more valuable, the options may ultimately prove worthless.