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For founders and C-suite leaders in private companies, employee stock options awarded as part of bonuses or overall compensation packages can be both a powerful wealth-building tool and a complex financial puzzle.

Now is an excellent time to think about when and how to exercise your options — especially if you receive any during bonus season.

Understanding the fundamentals and applying a disciplined approach can transform your stock options into a tool for long-term wealth creation while aligning your growth with the growth of your company.

From just $107.88 $24.99 for Kiplinger Personal Finance

Become a smarter, better informed investor.…