The equity compensation gap: why even your most senior leaders are leaving money on the table | Fortune
Briefly

The equity compensation gap: why even your most senior leaders are leaving money on the table | Fortune
"Equity compensation, which often includes stock options, restricted stock units, or other equity-based awards, is a powerful tool for aligning the interests of key talent with those of the company. Yet our recent research reveals a surprising disconnect: While executives are often seen as financially savvy, 44% of those participating in their company's equity compensation plans say they do not have a formal personal financial plan."
"Our data shows a direct link between planning and confidence: 73% of executives with a formal financial plan feel confident in achieving their financial goals, compared to just 41% of those without one. And even financially savvy executives say they want more guidance—particularly on topics covering investment and wealth management, estate planning and wealth transfer, tax optimization strategies and navigating equity compensation and executive benefits."
Equity compensation serves dual purposes: incentivizing executives to drive business performance while fostering ownership, retention, and engagement. However, complexity in equity plans often prevents leaders from maximizing their awards. Research reveals that 44% of executives participating in equity compensation programs lack formal personal financial plans, despite financial sophistication. This planning gap directly impacts confidence: 73% of executives with formal plans feel confident achieving financial goals, compared to 41% without plans. Executives seek additional guidance on investment management, estate planning, tax optimization, and equity compensation navigation. HR and benefits leaders can close this gap by embedding planning tools, targeted guidance, and financial advisor access into equity programs, enabling informed decisions and supporting both individual and organizational objectives.
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