Which of the following statements is true in the context of stock-based compensation? a. stock options usually result in information asymmetry. b. critics deny that stock-based compensations motivate managers to improve company performance. c. stock-based compensation schemes for executives can align management and stockholder interests. d. granting more stock options often results in an increase in stockholder equity.

China's new 5 percent tax on disposable wooden chopsticks, reflecting concerns about deforestation, has been praised by environmentalists. the move is hitting hard at the japanese, who consume 25 billion set of wooden chopsticks annually. almost all of the chopsticks used in japan come from china. the reuirements for chinese manufacturers of wooden chopsticks to pay the 5 percent tax is a factor in their external environment.