Options trading has emerged as a powerful tool for investors and traders seeking to capitalize on market opportunities while managing risk. An option is a financial derivative that grants its holder the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell an underlying asset at a predetermined price, known as the strike price, on or before a specific date. In this article, we will explore the uses of options, the benefits they offer, as well as the potential risks involved. Uses of Options 1. Hedging One of the primary uses of options is as a hedging instrument. Investors use options to protect their portfolios against adverse price movements in the underlying assets. By purchasing put options, investors can hedge against potential market declines, reducing the impact of negative price swings. 2. Speculation Options provide traders with an opportunity to speculate on the price movements of assets without actually owning them. Call options allow investors to profit from potential price increases, while put options enable them to profit from declines. 3. Income Generation Selling options, also known as writing options, can be a strategy to generate
By Stephen L. Thomas | November 3, 2023 | In