Tender offer

Also called: company tender, liquidity program, buyback tender

In one line

A company-organised event where employees and early investors can sell a set amount of shares at a fixed price during a limited window.

In plain English

Rather than everyone selling privately, the company runs a structured round: it names a price and a window, and you choose how much to sell. It's the cleanest, safest way most employees ever get to sell.

If you were explaining it to a 5-year-old

The toy club announces: 'This week only, we'll buy back up to 5 toys from each kid at 3 coins each.' You decide how many to sell.

Why it matters when you sell

If your company runs one, a tender is usually your best route — approved, priced and low-friction. Waiting for one can beat chasing a private buyer.

Put it to use

How tender offers work

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Sources

A general market-practice term. See how we define and source the glossary in our methodology. General information, not advice.

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Tender offer

Related terms

Put it to use