Guam Amended and Restated Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPN) refers to a specific financial program offered by companies operating in Guam. This plan is designed to provide eligible employees with an opportunity to purchase the company's stock at a discounted price. The program is regulated under the laws and regulations specific to Guam, ensuring compliance with local legislation. The Guam Amended and Restated Employee Stock Purchase Plan aims to encourage employee participation in company ownership by allowing them to invest in the future growth and success of the organization. This can enhance employee morale, loyalty, and ultimately, performance. By offering employees the chance to buy company stocks at a reduced cost, the ESPN scheme provides an attractive benefit that can enhance overall compensation packages. Under the Guam Amended and Restated Employee Stock Purchase Plan, employees are allowed to contribute a certain percentage of their salary towards the purchase of company stocks. These contributions happen through payroll deductions over a predefined offering period, which is typically six months or a year. At the end of each offering period, employees can then use the accumulated funds to buy company shares at a discounted price, often based on the fair market value at the beginning or end of the offering period, whichever is lower. The Guam Amended and Restated Employee Stock Purchase Plan aims to benefit both the employee and the company. Employees can potentially acquire company shares at a lower price than what is available on the stock market, enabling them to earn a profit if the stock price appreciates. The company, on the other hand, can use the ESPN to align employees' interests with the business's performance and create a sense of ownership and loyalty among employees. While the specific details of the Guam Amended and Restated Employee Stock Purchase Plan vary depending on the company offering it, there can be different types or features of the plan. They may include: 1. Qualified ESPN: This type of ESPN meets certain criteria defined by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), allowing employees to enjoy certain tax advantages. The contributions made towards qualified ESPN are often deducted from the employee's taxable income, reducing their overall tax liability. 2. Non-Qualified ESPN: Unlike the qualified ESPN, this type of plan does not meet the IRS criteria for tax advantages. The contributions made towards this plan are typically subject to income tax at the time of purchase. 3. Look back Provision: Some Guam Amended and Restated Employee Stock Purchase Plans also feature a look back provision. This provision allows employees to purchase company shares at a discounted price based on either the stock price at the beginning or end of the offering period, whichever is lower. 4. Offering Period: The ESPN scheme operates within a specific offering period, where employees can contribute a portion of their salary towards buying company stocks. This period is determined by the company administering the plan and can vary in duration. In conclusion, the Guam Amended and Restated Employee Stock Purchase Plan provides an attractive opportunity for eligible employees in Guam to invest in their company's stock at a discounted price. With different types and features available, companies can tailor their ESPN to align employees' interests with the overall success of the organization while providing potential tax advantages and ownership opportunities to employees.