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Morgan Stanley Shareworks

Equity plan administration inside Morgan Stanley at Work

3.9Enterprise / CustomBest for Pre-IPO companies planning the public-company transition
Equity Compensation Enterprise Pre-IPO

Overview

Shareworks began as Solium, the equity administrator Morgan Stanley acquired for $900M in 2019, and its capabilities now live inside Morgan Stanley at Work — the bank retired the standalone Shareworks name but kept the machinery. It administers equity plans for private and public companies, with cap table management, 409A-linked valuation services, global compliance and liquidity support. Best suited to later-stage companies that want equity comp, wealth services and an eventual IPO path under one roof.

Key features

  • Equity plan administration for private and public companies
  • Cap table management with liquidity event support
  • Valuation and 409A-related services
  • Global compliance and tax mobility support
  • Participant financial wellness and education

Pros

  • Deep bench for IPO transitions and tender offers
  • Bank-grade compliance and participant services
  • One vendor from late-private through public life

Cons

  • Standalone Shareworks branding is being retired, muddying evaluation
  • Heavy for early-stage cap tables
  • Enterprise pricing and contracting

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