So, it's just a bonus denominated in shares instead of USD. Is there any difference whatsoever to getting it in USD and buying it on the open market at the same

So, it's just a bonus denominated in shares instead of USD. Is there any difference whatsoever to getting it in USD and buying it on the open market at the same day? From your description, sounds like the only difference would be fees (instead of Google issuing shares, selling them, getting money, giving money to employee, who then buys Google shares) - but surely there's some other advantage?