Uzbekistan is introducing a new initiative, developed by the National Agency for Perspective Projects (NAPP), to reward employees with shares in companies as part of additional incentive programs. Modeled on the ESOP system, the initiative aims to enhance employee engagement, improve labor relations, boost welfare, and develop the domestic capital market. While participation will be voluntary, joint stock companies with over 50% state ownership must implement the plan, and employees using up to one month's salary to purchase shares will enjoy a personal income tax exemption.

The 2024 Renaulution Shareplan achieved remarkable success, with 43% of eligible Renault Group employees participating, up from 36% in 2023. Over 93,000 employees will benefit from 7 free shares each, and nearly 46,000 employees subscribed to additional shares at a discounted price, resulting in the transfer of approximately 1.88 million shares, representing 0.64% of Renault SA's capital. This initiative reflects strong employee confidence in the Group’s strategy, bringing total employee ownership to 5.74% of Renault SA's capital, as the company works toward its goal of 10% employee shareholding.

Apave has successfully completed its second employee shareholding offer, continuing its commitment to involving employees in the Group's long-term development and performance. With 72% of eligible employees in France participating—an increase from the first offer in 2021—this initiative provides employees with shareholder opportunities through an FCPE, featuring special subscription conditions like matching contributions and discounts. Employee shareholders now hold 2.6% of Apave's capital, reinforcing the Group's dedication to employee engagement and shared success.

Stellantis has launched the second wave of its "Shares to Win" employee share purchase plan, extending participation to nearly all 230,000 employees worldwide across 18 countries. The program offers a 20% discount on shares and a 100% matching contribution on personal investments up to €1,000, aiming to increase employee ownership from the current 1.8% to 5% of the company’s capital. This initiative, part of Stellantis’ Dare Forward 2030 plan, fosters employee engagement and aligns their interests with the company’s performance and value creation goals.

Thales has launched its 2024 Employee Share Ownership Plan, allowing employees across 36 countries and retirees to purchase shares at a 20% discount with a 50% matching contribution on investments up to €500. The plan, which aims to strengthen employee alignment with the company’s goals, offers 600,000 shares at a discounted price of €119.69, with participants required to hold the shares for five years, except under early release conditions. This initiative, set to run from November 4–24, 2024, provides tax-efficient savings and investment opportunities for employees and retirees, supported by local legal and regulatory compliance.

Save As You Earn (SAYE) schemes, a tax-efficient employee share option program in Ireland, are now available again after several years, thanks to the entry of a new licenced savings carrier. SAYE allows employees to acquire company shares at a fixed price, with gains exempt from income tax (up to 40%) and offers employers PRSI exemptions, tax-deductible setup costs, and a tool for talent retention. Additionally, other tax-efficient schemes like Approved Profit Sharing Schemes (APSS) and restricted share plans provide further opportunities for companies to incentivize and retain employees through tax-advantaged equity awards.

Be.EV, an electric vehicle charging network launched in 2021, has embedded employee equity participation into its core model, initially offering early hires an equity stake and later implementing enterprise management incentive (EMI) schemes. With recent investment from Octopus Energy Generation, Be.EV is now launching a growth share scheme for newer employees, ensuring that both junior and senior staff can participate. The equity offerings have been instrumental in attracting and retaining talent, aligning employee success with the company’s long-term goals and contributing to its appeal during recruitment.

Societe Generale successfully completed its 2024 Global Employee Share Ownership Programme, raising EUR 186,907,707.84 and issuing 9,055,606 new shares subscribed by approximately 46,000 current and retired employees across 35 countries. The bank's share capital now stands at EUR 1,015,044,435.00, comprising 812,035,548 shares, with a minimal impact on the CET 1 ratio of around 4 basis points, effective by the end of Q3 2024. The program, the 31st of its kind, is part of Societe Generale's long-term commitment to employee involvement and sustainable value creation.

The Global Equity Organization's (GEO) 26th Annual Conference in Prague from 28-30 April 2025 presents an exceptional opportunity for professionals in global equity compensation to advance their knowledge, network with peers worldwide, and witness industry excellence firsthand.

Next year, the event promises to be a transformative experience in the picturesque city of Prague, offering numerous benefits that make it a crucial investment for anyone involved in global equity compensation.

Valuable educational opportunities

One of the standout features of GEO's conference is the ability to earn up to ten continuing education credits. By attending, you stay current with evolving practices and gain insights into future trends that can influence your organization's global equity strategies. Join the 92% of attendees whose learning objectives were met last year, ensuring your time is well spent and highly productive.

Financial incentives

Early birds catch the worm, and in this case, early registrants catch significant savings. GEO offers substantial discounts for those who register ahead of time, making it financially prudent to plan early. Moreover, issuers of global equity compensation plans that secure a speaking slot can attend for free, presenting an unbeatable opportunity for key decision-makers to gain invaluable knowledge and network with peers from around the world.

Robust program: Education and networking

The conference program is meticulously crafted to offer diverse learning opportunities. With over 50 education sessions covering topics from regulatory updates to innovative equity plan design, attendees can tailor their experience to meet their professional development goals.

Networking at GEO's conference is about more than exchanging business cards; it's about forging lasting connections in a conducive environment. Imagine having access to 10 structured networking events designed to facilitate meaningful interactions. These events ensure attendees meet peers from over 20 countries, creating a global network of contacts that can prove invaluable long after the conference concludes. Join the 88% of attendees who felt engaged throughout the event, ensuring a productive and enjoyable experience.

GEO Awards: Celebrating excellence

As an added bonus, attendees will have the opportunity to witness the prestigious GEO Awards ceremony. Each attendee seat at this exclusive event is valued at $350, providing a chance to celebrate and honor excellence and innovation in the field of global equity compensation. This ceremony not only recognizes outstanding achievements but also inspires attendees with new ideas and best practices.

MAKING THE CASE FOR APPROVAL

Convincing your organization to approve travel and registration costs for GEO's 26th Annual Conference in Prague boils down to highlighting the tangible benefits:

• Professional Development: Gain essential knowledge and certifications through accredited sessions.
• Financial Efficiency: Take advantage of early registration discounts and free attendance for issuers.
• Networking Opportunities: Foster global connections at structured events designed for meaningful interactions.
• Industry Recognition: Experience the prestige of the GEO Awards, celebrating excellence in global equity compensation.

Attending GEO's conference isn't just an expense; it's an investment in both personal and organizational growth. The knowledge gained, connections made, and strategies learned can directly impact your company's success in navigating the complex landscape of global equity compensation.

By demonstrating how your attendance will contribute to your professional development and benefit the organization through enhanced knowledge, networking, and exposure to industry excellence at the GEO Awards, you can effectively make the case for approval.

Investing in your professional growth at GEO's 26th Annual Conference is a decision that promises substantial returns, both in the short term and throughout your career.