The Cook Illinois Stock Option Plan Stock Option Plan is a comprehensive program that offers various types of stock options to employees. Designed to incentivize and reward employees, this plan includes the grant of Incentive Stock Options (SOS), Nonqualified Stock Options (Nests), and Exchange Options. Incentive Stock Options, also known as SOS, are a type of stock option that provides certain tax advantages to the employee. They are typically granted to key employees and executives and offer the potential for long-term capital gains tax treatment. SOS encourage employees to hold onto the stock for a specific period before exercising their options, as they are subject to certain conditions and requirements. Nonqualified Stock Options, on the other hand, provide employees with more flexibility compared to SOS. Nests are not subject to the same tax advantages as SOS but still offer significant benefits. Employees can exercise Nests at any time and are not restricted by specific holding periods or eligibility criteria. This type of stock option is often granted to a wider range of employees within the company. Additionally, the Cook Illinois Stock Option Plan may include Exchange Options. Exchange Options provide employees with the opportunity to exchange their current stock options for different options, usually with a modified strike price or expiration date. This allows employees to adjust their stock options according to their changing financial circumstances or market conditions. The Cook Illinois Stock Option Plan Stock Option Plan is designed to attract, retain, and motivate talented employees by offering them various types of stock options. By providing incentives aligned with the company's performance, this plan helps create a sense of ownership and encourages employees to contribute to the long-term success of the organization.