INSIGHTS

Sean Valle Sean Valle

Understanding Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) and When Investors Actually Benefit

For startup founders and investors alike, the potential tax benefits of Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) can be highly attractive. QSBS treatment, governed by Section 1202 of the Internal Revenue Code, offers a significant tax exclusion on capital gains—potentially up to 100%—when stockholders sell their shares. But it only applies in certain contexts.

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Sean Valle Sean Valle

Tax Implications of ISO Exercises: What Startup Founders and Employees Need to Know

Incentive Stock Options (ISOs) are a common form of equity compensation offered to employees of startups and growing companies. For employees, ISOs often represent the potential for significant financial upside. However, the tax implications of exercising ISOs can be complex, particularly when the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) comes into play.

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Sean Valle Sean Valle

How to Pitch to Investors: Five Key Tips for Early-Stage Startup Founders

Securing funding is crucial for early-stage startup founders, and delivering a compelling pitch can make all the difference. In this blog post, we explore five key tips for pitching to investors: make them think with thought-provoking questions, share a personal story to connect on a deeper level, evoke emotions by being raw and vulnerable, present surprising facts to highlight urgency, and maintain honesty by admitting what you don't know. By following these strategies, founders can create a memorable and impactful narrative that resonates with investors and builds lasting relationships.

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Sean Valle Sean Valle

Milestones Investments in Life Science Startup Fundraising Rounds

Explore the importance of milestones in investment documents for life science startups. Learn how to structure measurable goals that align with business objectives, enhance investor communication, and attract funding opportunities. Understand the significance of clinical, financial, operational, and market entry milestones in preferred stock rounds. Optimize your startup's fundraising strategy with clear, relevant milestones.

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Sean Valle Sean Valle

The Legal and Tax Ramifications of Failing to File an 83(b) Election: A Guide for Startup Founders

Discover the legal ramifications of not filing an 83(b) election for startup founders. Learn about the tax consequences for stockholders and companies, especially W2 employees, related to restricted stock vesting. Explore options to address missed filings and strategies to structure equity compensation, including the benefits of stock options versus restricted stock grants.

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