The average price of the 18 million options granted during 2000 was about $59.

But 76 of the 176 companies that granted options gave more than the year before.

But they would pay off based on the actual performance of the options granted to employees.

He was granted options worth $1.5 million at their peak.

For most executives granted options in 1997, 1998 and 1999 that is not an issue.

It added that he had been granted options to buy 750,000 more shares at $10.75 each.

The company also granted him an additional 22,675 shares, worth about $117,000, and options to buy 4,450 more.

Company officials declined to disclose the number of options granted or their price.

These companies would qualify as a company that grants options to all employee groups.

Employers can grant employees options on up to £30,000 worth of shares each.