NORTH AMERICA CHAPTER

Save the date to connect with your NorCal community this September in San Mateo, CA! 

In today’s dynamic global landscape, equity compensation is evolving at the intersection of technology, policy, and practice. These two forward-looking sessions examine the forces reshaping our field—from the disruptive potential of artificial intelligence to groundbreaking global research on employee share ownership. Whether you're exploring how AI tools like ChatGPT can complement human expertise, or uncovering international trends from GEO’s Global Share Plans Ranking Project, these sessions will equip you with fresh insights to navigate the future of equity compensation with confidence and clarity.

SESSION ONE: 
AI vs. Human Expertise:  Exploring ChatGPT’s Role in Equity Compensation

In a rapidly changing technological landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) is making its mark across countless industries—including equity compensation. This session explores the evolving role of tools like ChatGPT and examines whether AI can truly replicate or complement human expertise in this nuanced field. Join us for an engaging discussion on the promises, pitfalls, and practical applications of AI in equity compensation strategy, compliance, and communication.

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

• Understand the current capabilities and limitations of AI tools like ChatGPT in the context of equity compensation.
• Identify areas within equity compensation where AI may enhance efficiency, accuracy, and decision-making—and where human judgment remains essential.
• Evaluate ethical, legal, and practical considerations when integrating AI into equity compensation processes.
  
   

SESSION TWO:
Global Share Plans Ranking Study:  Insights, Opportunities, and the Future of Employee Ownership

GEO’s Global Share Plans Ranking Project breaks new ground as the first initiative to provide a country-by-country snapshot of employee share ownership across the globe. This session highlights key findings from the expanded report, offering insights into which countries are embracing employee equity—and which markets may present emerging opportunities. Discover where support for employee ownership is thriving and explore the global trends shaping the future of equity compensation.

KEY LEARNING POINTS: 

• Understand the methodology and scope of GEO’s Global Share Plans Ranking Project and its significance to the equity compensation community.
• Identify top-performing countries in terms of employee share ownership support and participation.
• Recognize emerging markets with growth potential and explore strategies for expanding employee equity initiatives globally.
  
   

LOCATION
UBS
1285 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY, 10019

*Please indicate any dietary requirements in your registration as lunch will be provided. 

Members and non-members are welcome to join this chapter meeting.  Registration is required.

Equity and Privately Held Companies - It's a Matter of Value

As the event’s main sponsor, Baker McKenzie will kick off the meeting by introducing the core concepts and key valuation methods for equity-based compensation items that their specialists see being used in the market.

Following this introduction, we will have a panel of esteemed industry specialists who have personal experience in valuing non-listed companies, be it from the perspective of international private equity firms, start- or scale-up companies or family-owned businesses. They will bring a wealth of expertise in this matter to the table, and are eager to answer any questions you might have on this topic.

Thank you to our sponsor:

LOCATION:
Baker McKenzie Amsterdam
Claude Debussylaan 54 
1082 MD 
Amsterdam, Netherlands
 

There is no cost for this chapter meeting.  Both GEO Member and Non-Members are welcome.  But registration is required.  

Hands On: Advancing Equity Through AI Tech Solutions

Join us for an engaging and interactive session exploring the transformative potential of AI technology in advancing equity plan administration. This hands-on workshop will dive into practical applications and innovative solutions that leverage AI to streamline workflows, reduce manual effort, and improve accuracy.
Participants will gain insights into cutting-edge AI tools and methodologies designed to make day-to-day equity administration more efficient. Through real-world case studies and collaborative activities, you’ll discover how to implement AI-driven strategies that ease the burden of complex tasks and improve overall effectiveness.

If you work in equity administration, this session will provide valuable knowledge, tools, and actionable steps to harness AI for a smarter, more streamlined future.

Key Learning Points:
 

• Discover practical ways AI can streamline equity plan administration and reduce manual workload.
• Explore real-world examples of how AI is being used to drive efficiency and improve accuracy.
• Learn how to evaluate and implement AI tools that align with your organization’s equity goals.

Both GEO members and non-members are welcome.  Registration is required.

Lunch will be provided

LOCATION:
Morgan Stanley 
Menlo Park Office
4500 Bohannon Dr
Menlo Park, CA  94025

We hope to see you there!

The GEO NorCal Chapter Team

Navigating the Future of U.S. Business Immigration: Challenges and Changes

Join us for an insightful discussion on the current state of U.S. business immigration, focusing on H-1B and other work permits, the impact of federal government cuts, the status of travel bans, and predictions for what lies ahead in immigration policy and how it impacts world of global equity.

LOCATIONS

In-Person
KPMG Seattle
401 Union St
28th Floor
Seattle, WA 98101

Virtual - Join us from wherever you are - virtual details will be emailed after registration

Generously hosted KPMG

THE OPERATIONAL DEBATE: STREAMLINING EQUITY PLANS

In the world of equity compensation, operational hurdles are where the real debates begin. How do you strike the right balance between automation and hands-on management? Should compliance be centralized or tailored to local requirements? This session dives deep into the key operational challenges of equity plan execution, from data management and participant communications to administrative efficiency and compliance oversight. Experts will debate the pros and cons of different operational strategies, offering insights to help you optimize processes, reduce complexity, and ensure your equity plan runs like a well-oiled machine. Prepare to engage in this discussion on the most effective ways to handle operational roadblocks.

This session will include a lunch.

LOCATION
Adobe
3900 Adobe Way
Lehi, UT 

Thank you to our sponsor

There is no charge to attend this meeting.  Both members and non-members are welcome to join.