Here are the two main types of options:
1. Call Options:
– A call option gives the holder the right to buy the underlying asset at a specified price, known as the „strike price,” before or at the expiration date.
– Investors buy call options when they expect the price of the underlying asset to rise. If the price goes up, they can exercise the option and buy the asset at the lower strike price, making a profit.
2. Put Options:
– A put option gives the holder the right to sell the underlying asset at a specified strike price before or at the expiration date.
– Investors buy put options when they anticipate the price of the underlying asset to fall. If the price decreases, they can exercise the option and sell the asset at the higher strike price, making a profit.
In options trading, there are two main participants:
– Buyer (Holder): The person who purchases the option contract. Buyers pay a premium for the right to exercise the option but are not obligated to do so.
– Seller (Writer): The person who sells the option contract to the buyer. Sellers receive the premium from the buyer but may be obligated to fulfill the terms of the option if the buyer decides to exercise it.
Key terms in options trading:
– Premium: The price paid by the buyer to the seller for the option contract.
– Strike Price: The predetermined price at which the underlying asset can be bought or sold.
– Expiration Date: The date when the option contract expires. After this date, the option is no longer valid.
Options trading adds complexity compared to stock trading due to factors like time decay, implied volatility, and the ability to leverage positions. It’s important to thoroughly understand these concepts and risks before engaging in options trading.