by Undo Capital
December 15, 2025

What Is Option Exercise?

Option exercise is the process by which a person uses their share option to purchase company shares at the pre-agreed exercise price.

Option Exercise Meaning

The option exercise meaning centres on converting potential equity into real ownership. To define option exercise in practice, once options have vested and any exercise conditions are met, the holder pays the exercise (strike) price and receives actual shares in the company. A clear option exercise definition is essential because it triggers ownership rights, tax consequences and dilution on the cap table. Option exercise may happen during employment, on exit, or at the end of a vesting period, depending on the option plan structure.

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