Private Equity & VCBeginner

ESOP

Employee Stock Option Plan

A plan that gives employees the right to buy company shares at a fixed price in future.

Detailed explanation

Options vest over time, often four years. Common in start-ups to attract talent when cash is limited.

Why it matters

Can make up a large part of start-up compensation.

Key points

  • Vesting schedule.
  • Exercise price fixed upfront.
  • Taxed at exercise and sale in India.

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Educational content only. Definitions and examples are illustrative and are not investment, tax or legal advice.