Let’s break down the basic concepts:
1. Call Option:
– A call option gives the holder the right to buy the underlying asset at the agreed-upon strike price before or on the expiration date.
– Investors buy call options when they anticipate that the price of the underlying asset will rise.
2. Put Option:
– A put option gives the holder the right to sell the underlying asset at the agreed-upon strike price before or on the expiration date.
– Investors buy put options when they expect the price of the underlying asset to fall.
3. Strike Price:
– The strike price is the price at which the option holder can buy (for call options) or sell (for put options) the underlying asset.
4. Expiration Date:
– Options have a limited lifespan. The expiration date is the date when the option contract becomes void. After this date, the option is no longer valid.
5. Premium:
– Buyers pay a price, known as the premium, to the seller for the right to buy (in the case of call options) or sell (in the case of put options) the underlying asset.
6. Buyer and Seller:
– The buyer of an option pays the premium and has the right to exercise the option.
– The seller (also called the writer) of an option receives the premium and is obligated to fulfill the terms of the option if the buyer decides to exercise it.
7. Two Types of Options:
– Call options: Give the right to buy the underlying asset.
– Put options: Give the right to sell the underlying asset.
Options trading can be more complex than buying and selling stocks due to factors like time decay, implied volatility, and the relationship between the option’s price and the underlying asset’s price. It’s important to understand these factors and consider your risk tolerance before engaging in options trading.