BUSINESS ARTICLE

Our guide to Performance Share Plans (PSP)

Our guide to Performance Share Plans (PSP)

Our guide to Performance Share Plans (PSP)

firstpagedigital Business Insights, Employee Share Plan

Performance Share Plans (PSP) serve as a strategic tool for companies aiming to align employee performance with organisational success. This comprehensive incentive program grants employees shares based on predetermined performance criteria.

Introduction of Performance Share Plan (PSP)

In this guide to Performance Share Plans, we explore the various aspects of this incentive structure. From understanding its core functionality to navigating the diverse benefits it offers, we provide insights into the establishment requirements, tax implications, and associated risks.

How Performance Share Plans Function

A Performance Share Plan (PSP) is an executive compensation strategy that aligns the interests of company leaders with overall organisational success. In a PSP, executives receive awards in the form of shares, and these awards are contingent on achieving predefined performance targets. The performance is typically measured against specific financial, operational, or strategic metrics. As executives meet or exceed these goals, they unlock shares, creating a direct link between their performance and financial rewards.

ESOP vs. shares_ how they differ

Advantages of Performance Shares

Performance Share Plans (PSPs) offer several benefits. They serve as strong incentives by directly tying executive rewards to the company’s performance, motivating executives to contribute to overall success. PSPs also encourage a focus on long-term goals, fostering sustained achievements. Moreover, they help retain talent by giving executives a stake in the company’s success, reducing turnover. These plans provide a clear and measurable way to evaluate executive performance, creating a results-driven culture. In essence, implementing PSPs strategically enhances organisational performance and strengthens the connection between executive leadership and corporate success.

Types of Performance Shares

Performance Shares come in various types, offering flexibility for companies to tailor incentive structures to their specific needs.

Here are some common types of Performance Shares:

Time-Based Performance Shares
Time-Based Performance Shares provide executives with shares based on a set schedule, not contingent on specific performance metrics. Executives receive an initial share allocation upon grant, and these shares vest gradually over a specified period, often tied to their tenure. The vesting schedule can be structured annually, quarterly, or as per another specified timeframe, encouraging executives to stay, especially in industries prioritising employee retention where measuring specific performance metrics might be challenging.
Performance-Vesting Shares
Performance-vesting shares blend time-based and performance-based vesting in equity compensation. Unlike traditional time-based vesting, where shares vest on a set schedule, these shares require executives to meet specific performance targets within a designated time period. Vesting hinges on predefined metrics like financial goals or stock price targets. Executives receive a share grant, and full vesting depends on meeting or surpassing established benchmarks. This aligns executive compensation with company performance, linking rewards to strategic achievements. Balancing long-term commitment (time-based) with contributions to the company’s success (performance-based) motivates executives to drive positive outcomes.
Relative Total Shareholder Return (TSR) Shares
Relative Total Shareholder Return (TSR) Shares tie executive rewards to the company’s stock performance compared to peers. Executives earn shares based on the total shareholder return relative to a selected group of peer companies. Calculation involves measuring the company’s stock price appreciation and dividend yield against predefined peers over a specified period. Outperformance results in a higher share allocation, while underperformance may reduce or eliminate the allocation. This aligns executive compensation with the company’s market performance, encouraging strategies that enhance shareholder value compared to industry competitors. Relative TSR Shares offer a performance-oriented incentive, fostering a competitive drive among executives for superior results in the market.
Factors to consider before implementing ESOPs

Requirement To Establish a PSP

Establishing a Performance Share Plan in Singapore involves a comprehensive approach. Firstly, in the design phase, clear objectives must be defined, aligning them with the company’s overarching goals. Additionally, specifying performance metrics that determine share or cash allocations is crucial. Legal and regulatory compliance is vital, requiring adherence to regulations set by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS).

Transparent communication with employees is essential, detailing the criteria for earning shares, the potential value of the awards, and clarity on vesting schedules and conditions. Employee eligibility is determined based on factors like job level, performance, and tenure, and the plan’s scope may include all employees or specific groups. Establishing performance metrics involves outlining key indicators relevant to the company’s objectives. Defining a vesting period with a graded approach encourages employee retention. Valuation methods for PSP awards, whether in shares or cash equivalents, need to be consistent and fair.

Efficient administration and record-keeping systems, potentially utilising specialised software are essential. Understanding tax implications for both the company and employees is important, involving consultation with tax professionals for compliance with Singapore’s tax laws. Obtaining board approval aligning with the company’s overall compensation strategy is the final step, ensuring the success of the PSP in motivating employees and aligning their interests with the company’s performance. Consulting legal, financial, and HR professionals is advisable throughout the design and implementation phases to ensure a seamless process.

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Tips for successful share scheme execution

Tax Treatment of PSP

The tax treatment of a Performance Share Plan (PSP) varies by locations and design features, with key considerations:

Taxable Event
Receipt of performance shares is often non-taxable; taxation typically occurs upon vesting when shares become transferable.
Taxation Upon Vesting
Upon vesting, ordinary income tax may apply on the shares’ fair market value, treated as compensation in taxable income.
Capital Gains Tax
Selling vested shares may incur capital gains tax, potentially more favourable than ordinary income tax rates.
Timing of Taxation
Taxation timing varies, some tax gains at vesting, others at sale.
Withholding Requirements
Taxation timing varies, some tax gains at vesting, others at sale.
Employee Deductions
Taxation timing varies, some tax gains at vesting, others at sale.
Social Security and Medicare Taxes
Taxation timing varies, some tax gains at vesting, others at sale.
International Considerations
Multinational companies face complexity due to diverse tax laws; compliance with international tax regulations is crucial.

Restriction and Risk on Performance Share

Implementing a Performance Share Plan (PSP) comes with certain restrictions and risks that require careful consideration:

Regulatory Compliance
Adhering to local and international regulatory requirements is crucial to avoid legal issues. Non-compliance may lead to penalties and reputational damage.
Shareholder Dilution
Offering performance shares may dilute existing shareholders’ ownership. Striking a balance between rewarding employees and maintaining shareholder value is essential.
Market Volatility
Fluctuations in the stock market can impact the value of performance shares. Participants may experience lower-than-expected returns if the market performs poorly.
Performance Metrics Ambiguity
Unclear or subjective performance metrics may lead to disputes. Defining precise and measurable criteria is essential to ensure fairness and transparency.
Employee Retention Challenges
While PSPs aim to retain talent, there’s a risk that employees might leave before the shares vest, resulting in unused allocations.
Communication and Understanding
Inadequate communication about the PSP details can lead to misunderstandings among employees, affecting morale and the effectiveness of the plan.
Financial Performance Dependency
PSPs tie rewards to the company’s financial performance. Poor performance may result in lower returns for participants, impacting their motivation.
Tax Implications
Tax regulations can change, affecting the tax treatment of performance shares. Staying informed about tax laws is essential to avoid unexpected financial consequences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can performance shares decrease in value?

The value of performance shares can decrease. The value of performance shares is often tied to the company’s stock price or other predetermined performance metrics. If the company’s stock price declines or if the predetermined performance goals are not met, the value of the performance shares can decrease. This is a risk associated with performance-based compensation plans, as the value is contingent on the company’s overall performance.

Are there tax implications for receiving performance shares?

Yes, there are tax implications for receiving performance shares. The taxation of performance shares can vary based on the jurisdiction and specific tax regulations. In many cases, taxation occurs when the performance shares vest or when the recipient sells the shares. In some jurisdictions, the value of the performance shares at the time of vesting may be treated as ordinary income, subject to income tax.

Can performance share plans be customised for different employees?

PSP in Singapore can be customised for different employees. Companies often tailor PSPs to align with their organisational goals, individual roles, and employee preferences. Customisation may involve varying performance metrics, vesting periods, or the number of shares granted based on factors such as seniority, job responsibilities, or performance expectations.

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