While there is nothing illegal about such a provision, compensation specialists say the practice could lead to abuse.

Many compensation specialists have reached the same conclusion.

The pension could be worth at least $2 million, compensation specialists said.

Largely in recognition of the extra time, compensation specialists say, pay packages for directors are rising.

Altogether, several hundred Wall Street executives are expected to receive bonuses of $3 million or more, compensation specialists say.

Still, many compensation specialists believe that companies will reassess their long-term incentive plans in light of the recent market volatility.

She is a compensation specialist at Chemical Bank in New York.

Traders like Mr. Arnold can earn well more than $10 million a year, compensation specialists say.

But if there is evidence of backdating, compensation specialists say accounting and disclosure issues could remain.

Micrel's plan, compensation specialists said, implied a loose interpretation of the term "grant date."