Google Inc. (NDAQ:GOOG) announced today plans to unveil a new options program that would enable employees to sell their vested options via an auction. Dubbed the "Transferable Stock Option" program, non-executive employees would have the ability to sell their shares on a new secondary market managed by Morgan Stanley, where pre-approved financial institutions can bid on their vested options. Google reportedly instituted the program in order to make things fair for newer employees, after Google's shares are beginning to slow after their steep post-IPO climb. Opinions regarding the new program are mixed at best. Many expect that financial institutions would be willing to pay a premium for these options, enabling these newer employees to cash in on some of their options. However, some have criticized the program, stating that it encourages employees to sell shares rather than hold a stake in the company. Moreover, while Google's accounting will not change, they said they would incur greater stock option expenses as a result of the new program. However, the criticism was only mild since executive vested options were not included in the program - a move which would have sparked much controversy. As it stands, the program is a test of sorts for Google, who continues to innovate, not just in technology, but now finance as well.

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