Options to Help You Create Liquidity from Concentrated Stock
by Sequoia Financial Group
by Sequoia Financial Group
As a successful executive, you’ve likely accumulated a healthy number of company stock shares.
The key to unlocking the hidden value in your company stock could lie in repurposing some of those funds to maximize what’s truly important to you, such as education for your children, a second home your family can enjoy, retirement security, or philanthropic desires.
Your next question might be, “But how do I do that, particularly in a tax-efficient way?” One possible answer is to create liquidity.
Below are some options to consider when attempting to create liquidity from your concentrated stock.
1. Selling Shares Outright
Selling shares of stock frees up funds that can be used for just about any need. If you have a low-cost basis, you are likely concerned about a significant capital gains tax hit. One solution is to consider selling shares over time, which can help you mitigate the tax bite in any one year and still participate in the future growth of your stock.
2. 10b5-1 Plan
If you are an insider, establishing a 10b5-1 plan could define a predetermined schedule for selling shares over time. Such plans specify each sale’s dates, prices, and amounts before the transaction and comply with SEC Rule 144, which governs the sale of restricted stock.
3. Using Listed Options
Depending on your objective, several options strategies could be employed. Writing covered calls, purchasing put options, or creating a collar can generate income while you’re waiting to sell, protect against downside price movements, or potentially both.
4. Securities-based Loan / Line of Credit
Exploring a securities-based loan is another strategy to look into if you need funds, but the timing of unwinding the stock is not optimal. However, making sure you understand the risks involved is imperative. For example, adjustable interest rates, capital calls during market declines, or reduced borrowing capacity due to asset allocation changes should be carefully considered.
Conclusion
If you’ve been acquiring and holding company stock for several years, its growth has likely afforded you the opportunity of choice. Maximize its value by choosing to use it in a way that supports your financial, family, and charitable goals.
Interested in learning about other options to unravel value from concentrated stock? Read our blog “Unlock Hidden Value: How to Maximize Your Concentrated Stock,” and remember that a Sequoia Financial Group advisor is just a click away to help you achieve your goals.
The views expressed represent the opinion of Sequoia Financial Group. The views are subject to change and are not intended as a forecast or guarantee of future results. This material is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute investment advice and is not intended as an endorsement of any specific investment. Stated information is derived from proprietary and nonproprietary sources that have not been independently verified for accuracy or completeness. While Sequoia believes the information to be accurate and reliable, we do not claim or have responsibility for its completeness, accuracy, or reliability. Statements of future expectations, estimates, projections, and other forward-looking statements are based on available information and Sequoia’s view as of the time of these statements. Accordingly, such statements are inherently speculative as they are based on assumptions that may involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results, performance or events may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Investing in equity securities involves risks, including the potential loss of principal. While equities may offer the potential for greater long-term growth than most debt securities, they generally have higher volatility. Past performance is not an indication of future results. Investment advisory services offered through Sequoia Financial Advisors, LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Registration as an investment advisor does not imply a certain level of skill or training.
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