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Journal of Financial Economics Vol. 76 No. 2 2005

Exercise behavior, valuation, and the incentive effects of employee stock options

J. Carr Bettis1; John M. Bizjak2,3; Michael L. Lemmon4

1 Arizona State University · 2 United States Securities and Exchange Commission · 3 Portland State University · 4 University of Utah

Abstract

We use a large database on ESO exercises to document characteristics of exercise behavior and calibrate a utility-based model for measuring how differences in exercise behavior are manifested in option values and incentives. Option values and incentives computed from the model calibrations are compared to those computed from models used to value tradable options. Our analysis provides guidance to both academics and practitioners about how differences in exercise behavior and model choice affect measures of ESO values and incentives, and underscores the importance of gaining a thorough understanding of the underlying economic forces that affect the behavior of ESO holders.

DOI
10.1016/j.jfineco.2004.05.006
Volume
76
Issue
2
Pages
445-470
Language
en
Sources
bibtex:phds-export.bib openalex crossref

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