[CharlieA]

Based on what you've said it sounds like given the early-stage development you're involved in ("development work will be non-trivial") and the risk involved ("provided there is money") and the fact that you are one of the earliest (first?) employees, you should be in line for at least some equity--obviously it varies company-to-company, but based on an earlier HN discussion here: http://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=973060, it seems there wouldn't be (too) many startups that wouldn't provide at least SOME equity <3% for someone in your position who's taking a fairly large amount of financial risk.

And as a sidenote: if you're uneasy about the terms offered, maybe you already have your answer.

[throwaway69]

I am not uneasy, just unsure. My biggest worry right now is if the company does take off, would i regret not asking for equity?

[div]

You are taking a risk of only being paid 1/3rd of your market rate for the next 6 months.

After that, you may be without a job. This is your downside, and it's what you should plan for.

In a best case situation, after 6 months you will start gradually earning back the money you missed out on, + a raise.

This means the only upside for you is the raise you _may_ get after 6 months. You should decide for yourself if you're comfortable with the amount of risk you will be taking for this upside.

As an extra caveat: it seems to me like it would be very easy for the founders to claim "there is no capital". Especially considering you are in a foreign country and are likely to not have any insight into the company's financials, it will be extremely hard and costly for you to prove otherwise if things go sour.

[dylanhassinger]

yes you would