The New Mexico Nonqualified Stock Option Plan of MIX Carriers, Inc. is a compensation program that provides employees with the opportunity to purchase company stock at a predetermined price for a specified period of time. This plan is specifically designed for employees of MIX Carriers, Inc. who are based in the state of New Mexico. Nonqualified stock options are a type of stock option plan that is separate from the more common incentive stock options (SOS) or qualified stock options. Unlike SOS, which are subject to specific tax regulations set by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), nonqualified stock options offer more flexibility in terms of granting and exercising options. They also do not typically enjoy the same tax advantages as SOS. Under the New Mexico Nonqualified Stock Option Plan of MIX Carriers, Inc., eligible employees are granted the right to purchase company stock at a predetermined price, known as the exercise price or strike price. These options are usually awarded as part of an employee's compensation package, serving as a form of long-term incentive to align the interests of employees with the growth and success of MIX Carriers, Inc. The plan may include different types of nonqualified stock options, such as: 1. Non-qualified Stock Option Grants: Eligible employees are provided with an opportunity to purchase company stock at a predetermined price for a specified period of time. The exercise price is typically set based on the fair market value of the stock on the date of grant. 2. Vesting Schedule: The plan may have a vesting schedule, which outlines the timeline over which employees gain ownership rights to the stock options. This schedule encourages employees to remain with the company for a certain duration, as invested options may be forfeited upon termination. 3. Exercise Period: The plan will define the exercise period during which employees can exercise their vested options. This period often starts after a specific vesting period has been completed and may span a few years. 4. Exercise Price: The exercise price represents the predetermined amount at which employees can purchase company stock. It is fixed at the time of grant and is typically lower than the stock's current market price, providing employees with an opportunity for potential financial gain. 5. Tax Implications: Participants in the plan must be aware of the potential tax implications associated with nonqualified stock options. Upon exercise, the difference between the exercise price and the fair market value of the stock is considered taxable compensation. The New Mexico Nonqualified Stock Option Plan of MIX Carriers, Inc. is designed to reward and incentivize employees in New Mexico, offering them the opportunity to share in the company's success through stock ownership. It aligns the interests of employees and shareholders and may provide an attractive long-term incentive for employees to contribute to the growth and profitability of MIX Carriers, Inc.