On the other hand, it could show that the owner's don't really believe in the future success of the company. If they really think the options will be worth mil

On the other hand, it could show that the owner's don't really believe in the future success of the company. If they really think the options will be worth millions of dollars, why wouldn't the owners just pay the $5000/yr more and keep the millions for themselves? That sounds like a great deal for them...unless they really don't believe that will happen.