Restricted Stock Explained: Meaning, Types, Process, and Use Cases
Restricted stock is a form of equity compensation in which real company shares are granted with conditions attached, such as vesting periods, performance targets, or transfer limits. In accounting and reporting, it matters because the company must measure the award, recognize compensation expense, disclose the terms, and explain the dilution and governance impact. For employees, managers, accountants, and investors, understanding restricted stock helps connect compensation design with financial statement effects.