<prompt> Human: I will be starting work soon with an employer that offers an employee stock purchase plan. Part of the plan is that there is a 6 month look back on the price, so I can buy the stock at the lowest price it has had in the last six months. In the last 100 days, the price of the stock has increased 20 it was pretty stable before then. While I wont make enough that I can afford to invest money long-term and wait for it to appreciate, Im wondering if its legalethical to buy stock at the 20 cheaper price, then sell it soon after to make a 20 gain. and effectively increase my salary by 20. Thank you!  <response>: Take a close look at the plan. Im sure theres a rule about how much of your paycheck you can contribute. Often there are rules about how long you must hold the stock after the purchase date before selling. My plan allows me to sell immediately, but the discount is only 5. Other companies Ive worked for require you to hold the stock for 3 months. In general though, ESPPs are a great benefit and you absolutely should be participating just as you described; treat it as a short term vehicle and sell as soon as you can. 