Introduction The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) was established in 1934 under the Securities Exchange Act, a decisive legislative response to the stock market crash of 1929 and the ensuing Great Depression. The creation of the SEC was rooted in the urgent need to protect investors from fraudulent

In today's competitive startup environment, the battle for top talent has led companies to adopt innovative compensation strategies. One of the most effective methods is through employee stock options. These are not only a powerful incentive to attract and retain corporate talent but also a means to align

Introduction Nonqualified stock options (NSOs) have emerged as a popular form of equity compensation for startups and businesses seeking to attract and retain top talent. Unlike incentive stock options (ISOs), NSOs offer startups greater flexibility in design and administration, but they also present unique challenges, including complex tax implications and

Introduction Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code plays a critical role for startups and businesses alike by regulating the taxation of nonqualified deferred compensation, including stock options. As companies, especially startups, offer equity-based compensation to attract high-caliber talent, accurate and compliant valuations become indispensable. These valuations determine the fair

Introduction Managing equity is both an art and a science for startups and growing businesses. In today’s complex financial landscape, equity management not only demands a careful balancing of investor and employee interests, but also requires robust tools for managing dilution. One prominent mechanism is the Broad Based Weighted

Crowdfunding has revolutionized the way startups raise capital, enabling entrepreneurs to tap into a broad base of supporters and validate their ideas without relying solely on traditional investors or banks. This 5-minute guide covers the definition, types, legal framework, platform options, documentation requirements, IP considerations, risks, best practices, and attorney

Introduction The entrepreneurial landscape in Central Texas is rich with innovation and potential. At the heart of this dynamic ecosystem is the Central Texas Angel Network (CTAN), a powerhouse that not only provides essential early-stage funding but also delivers strategic mentorship and networking opportunities. In today’s competitive business environment,

Introduction For startups and growing businesses, managing equity is a critical part of the financial and operational strategy. Issued stock, which represents the total shares a company has distributed to its owners – founders, employees, and investors – is more than just a financial lever; it is a signal of a company’

The Securities Exchange Act of 1934, enacted in the aftermath of the 1929 stock market crash, has continued to serve as a cornerstone of securities regulation. This landmark legislation established a framework built on transparency, fair trading practices, and robust investor protection. For startups and growing businesses, understanding this act

1. Understanding Debt Types and Governing Statutes Consumer vs. Commercial Debt: Consumer debt arises from personal, family, or household transactions and falls under the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). Commercial debt is unpaid obligations from business-to-business transactions. Commercial collectors in Texas are not subject to the FDCPA’s