Google Employees: Stock Options Going, Going…Gone

Today, I can tell you where NOT to make money…the U.S. stock market.  It’s taking a beating again today, down over 300 points at last check.

Yahoo is not the only one taking a pounding, it seems.  Among those fretting about the future of our stock market, no one may be more concerned than the employees of Google.

Their stock is now trading below yesterday’s closing price of $329.  This is a very significant benchmark for Google because about 1.7 million of their employees’ options were granted with a weighted average exercise price of $329.78. The options are worthless under that price.

As it stands right now, 61 percent of Google’s stock options granted to employees are currently under water.

So, what do we as affiliate marketers do in this climate?  Nothing.  We play it smart.  Sure, Americans may start cutting back on the extras in life.  Fewer iPods will be sold, smaller cars will be bought, etc.

Still, people will always have needs.  People will always NEED to lose weight.  People will always NEED to quit smoking.  People will always NEED to get rid of their acne.  People will always NEED to gamble.

Am I suggesting that affiliate marketers start praying on those who are overweight, those who smoke, or those who have an addiciton?  Of course not.  Still, we must recognize which markets will NOT be affected by an economic downturn.  THAT is where the gold will continue to hide.

As for Google?  Well, maybe all they really need to do is go back 10 or 15 years and focus on what drew people to the internet in the first place.  It could be as simple as a new logo…

Now, stop reading.  Start making money.