Just to get the discussion going, as I am a little unsure...

Just to get the discussion going, as I am a little unsure myself.
My understanding is that these were company options (options to buy shares) issued to the company directors/staff etc. most likely free (?) and they are exercisable at a set price, at a set time, which means the options holder can then swap the option for a full share at the original price specified in the option.

Options issued to directors, staff of a company are by way of rewarding them for achievements on behalf of the company.

The trading public can also buy options and they are a good way to improve one's leverage into a company. Don't ask me about 'put' options etc. these are too complex for me and used to 'bet' on a company's luck - I think - you can 'win' or 'lose' a lot of money with them, I stay out of it.
Taurisk