Ford to Expense Options in January

Ford Motor Co. said it would start accounting for stock options as an expense in January to reflect the cost of paying executives and other employees.

Ford said that the expense last year would have been about $150 million, or 8 cents a share. The change will not represent “a significant cost,” according to a company statement.

The auto maker also announced it would let buyers of 2002 cars and trucks delay payments until January, stepping up incentive competition as auto makers try to clear out dealer lots for 2003 models. The offer runs through Sept. 30 and is for all models.

Ford shares fell 27 cents to $10.89 on the New York Stock Exchange.