What is option chain ?
OPTION CHAIN.
An option chain is a table that displays all available options contracts for a particular underlying asset (such as a stock, ETF, or index), for a given expiration date. It helps traders and investors analyze and choose which options to buy or sell.
Key Components of an Option Chain:
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Calls and Puts:
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Call Options: The right to buy the underlying asset at a specific price.
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Put Options: The right to sell the underlying asset at a specific price.
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Strike Price:
The price at which the underlying asset can be bought (call) or sold (put). -
Expiration Date:
The date the option contract expires. After this date, the option becomes worthless if not exercised. -
Last Price:
The most recent trade price of the option. -
Bid and Ask:
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Bid: The highest price a buyer is willing to pay.
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Ask: The lowest price a seller is asking.
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The difference is called the spread.
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Open Interest:
The total number of outstanding (not yet closed or exercised) contracts. -
Volume:
The number of contracts traded during the current session. -
Implied Volatility (IV):
The market's forecast of how much the underlying asset is expected to move.
Example Layout of an Option Chain:
Calls | Strike Price | Puts | ||||
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Bid | Ask | Last | Last | Ask | Bid | |
2.00 | 2.10 | 2.05 | 100.00 | 1.95 | 1.90 | 1.85 |
Each row shows options for a specific strike price, with data for both calls and puts.
Why It's Useful:
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Helps analyze potential trades
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Compare premiums across strikes and expirations
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Assess liquidity and market sentiment
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Find the best strike price for your strategy
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