| FINANCIAL PARTICIPATION Employee share plans go global British multi-nationals are extending their employee share schemes outside of the UK, with global plans now operated by two-thirds of the blue-chip companies surveyed by Watson Wyatt, a consulting firm. Key survey findings The 49-company survey found:
Stumbling blocks The survey found that many of the companies that already operate global share plans remain uneasy about the complex legislation in other countries, as well as tax and exchange rate issues. But companies that plan to introduce global share plans have somewhat different concerns. Complex administration, inappropriate pay conditions and the cost of operation are the main concerns among those considering a more global approach, says Richard Cockman, the partner at Watson Wyatt who led the research. Our findings suggest that such companies may unnecessarily fear certain challenges and underestimate other issues when planning the introduction of a global share plan, he says. A final word In an increasingly competitive and global market, share plans are becoming the preferred tool to focus employees on common business goals. As companies are becoming increasingly global they are taking a global approach to all-employee share plans. — Richard Cockman, Watson Wyatt. Want to know more? Title: Watson Wyatt Global Share Plans UK Survey Report 2001. Survey sample: The research is based on information received from 49 companies in the FTSE 350. Availability: For further information about the survey contact Richard Cockman, a partner at Watson Wyatt in Reigate, United Kingdom, tel: 01737 284938, email: richard.cockman@eu.watsonwyatt.com. You can read the press release at . . . www.watsonwyatt.com/homepage/eu/new/presrel/press.asp?ID=8367 To find out more about Watson Wyatt Worldwide jump to . . . Posted 6 August 2001 |