UAA Under Armour Options Ahead of EarningsIf you haven't bought UAA before the previous earnings:
Then analyzing the options chain and the chart patterns of UAA Under Armour prior to the earnings report this week,
I would consider purchasing the 6.50usd strike price Puts with
an expiration date of 2024-5-17,
for a premium of approximately $0.27.
If these options prove to be profitable prior to the earnings release, I would sell at least half of them.
Optionstrading
HD The Home Depot Options Ahead of EarningsIf you haven`t sold HD before the previous earnings:
Then analyzing the options chain and the chart patterns of HD The Home Depot prior to the earnings report this week,
I would consider purchasing the 350usd strike price Calls with
an expiration date of 2024-5-17,
for a premium of approximately $5.85.
If these options prove to be profitable prior to the earnings release, I would sell at least half of them.
RBLX Roblox Corporation Options Ahead of EarningsIf you haven`t bought RBLX before the previous earnings:
Then analyzing the options chain and the chart patterns of RBLX Roblox Corporation prior to the earnings report this week,
I would consider purchasing the 40usd strike price Calls with
an expiration date of 2024-7-19,
for a premium of approximately $3.60.
If these options prove to be profitable prior to the earnings release, I would sell at least half of them.
Options Blueprint Series: Ratio Spreads for the Advanced TraderIntroduction to Ratio Spreads on E-mini Dow Jones Futures
In the dynamic world of options trading, Ratio Spreads stand out as a sophisticated strategy designed for traders looking to leverage market nuances to their advantage. Regular options on the E-mini Dow Jones Futures are a popular choice (YM).
Defining the E-mini Dow Jones (YM) Futures Contract
Before delving into the specifics of Ratio Spreads, understanding the underlying contract on which these options are based is crucial. The E-mini Dow Jones Futures, symbol YM, offers traders exposure to the 30 blue-chip companies of the Dow Jones Industrial Average in a smaller, more accessible format. Each YM contract represents $5 per index point.
Key Contract Specifications:
Point Value: $5 per point of the Dow Jones Industrial Average.
Trading Hours: Sunday - Friday, 6:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Next day) ET with a trading halt from 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM ET daily.
Margins: Varied based on broker but generally lower than the full-sized contracts, providing a cost-effective entry for various trading strategies. CME Group suggests $8,400 per contract at the time of this publication.
Ratio Spread Margins: Often require a careful calculation as they involve multiple positions. Traders must consult with their brokers to understand the specific margin requirements for entering into ratio spreads using YM futures. Margins for Ratio Spreads are often equal to the margin requirement when trading the outright futures contract.
Understanding Ratio Spreads
Ratio Spreads involve buying and selling different amounts of options at varying strike prices, but within the same expiration period. This strategy is typically employed to exploit expected directional moves or stability in the underlying asset, with an additional emphasis on benefiting from time decay.
Types of Ratio Spreads:
Call Ratio Spread: Involves buying calls at a lower strike price and selling a greater number of calls at a higher strike price. This setup is generally used in mildly bullish scenarios.
Put Ratio Spread: Consists of buying puts at a higher strike price and selling more puts at a lower strike price, suitable for mildly bearish market conditions.
Mechanics:
Execution: Traders initiate these spreads by first determining their view on the market direction. For a bullish outlook, a call ratio spread is suitable; for a bearish view, a put ratio spread would be applicable.
Objective: The primary goal is to benefit from the premium decay of the short positions outweighing the cost of the long positions. This is enhanced if the market moves slowly towards the strike price of the short options or remains at a standstill.
Risk Management: It's crucial to manage risks as these spreads can lead to limited losses if the market moves against the trader, or surprisingly to many, to unlimited losses if the market moves sharply in the desired direction. Proper stop-loss settings, adjustments and continual market analysis are imperative.
Focused Strategy: Bullish Call Ratio Spread
In the context of the E-mini Dow Jones, considering the current upward trend with potential slow advancement due to overhead UFO (UnFilled Orders) Resistances, a Bullish Call Ratio Spread can be particularly effective. This strategy allows traders to capitalize on the gradual upward movement while keeping a lid on risks associated with faster, unexpected spikes.
Strategy Setup:
Selecting Strikes: Choose a lower strike where the long calls are bought and a higher strike where more calls are sold. The selection depends on the resistance levels indicated by the UFOs.
Position Sizing: Typically, the number of calls sold is higher than those bought, maintaining a ratio that aligns with the trader's risk tolerance and market outlook.
Market Conditions: Best implemented when expecting a gradual increase in the market, allowing time decay to erode the value of the short call positions advantageously.
Real-time Market Example: Bullish Call Ratio Spread on E-mini Dow Jones Futures
Given the current market scenario where the Dow Jones Index is experiencing a bullish breakout, it’s crucial to align our options trading strategy to take advantage of potential slow upward movements signaled by overhead UFO Resistances. This setup suggests a favorable environment for a Bullish Call Ratio Spread, aiming to maximize the benefits of time decay while managing risk exposure effectively.
Setting Up the Bullish Call Ratio Spread:
1. Selection of Strike Prices:
Long Calls: Choose a strike price near the current market level (Strike = 39000).
Short Calls: Set the higher strike prices right at or above the identified UFO Resistances (Strike = 41000). The rationale here is that these levels are expected to cap the upward movement, thus enhancing the likelihood that these short calls expire worthless or decrease in value, maximizing the time decay benefit.
2. Ratio of Calls:
Opt for a ratio that reflects confidence in the bullish movement but also cushions against an unexpected rally. A common setup might be 1 long call for every 2 short calls.
Execution:
Trade Entry: Enter the trade when you observe a confirmed break above a minor resistance or a pullback that respects the upward trend structure.
Monitoring: Regularly monitor the price action as it approaches the UFO Resistances. Adjust the position if the market shows signs of either stalling or breaking through these levels more robustly than anticipated.
Trade Management:
Adjustments: If the market advances towards the higher strike more quickly than expected, consider buying back some short calls to reduce exposure.
Risk Control: Implement stop-loss orders to mitigate potential losses should the market move sharply against the position. This could be set at a level where the market structure changes from bullish to bearish.
This real-time scenario provides a practical example of how advanced traders can utilize Bullish Call Ratio Spreads to navigate complex market dynamics effectively, leveraging both market sentiment and technical resistance points to structure a potentially profitable trade setup.
Advantages of Ratio Spreads in Options Trading
Ratio Spreads offer a strategic advantage in options trading by balancing the potential for profit with a controlled risk management approach. Here are some key benefits of incorporating Ratio Spreads into your trading arsenal:
1. Maximizing Time Decay
Optimized Premium Decay: By selling more options than are bought, traders can capitalize on the accelerated decay of the premium of short positions. This is particularly advantageous in markets exhibiting slow to moderate price movements, as expected with the current Dow Jones trend influenced by UFO resistances.
2. Cost Efficiency
Reduced Net Cost: The cost of purchasing options is offset by the income received from selling options, reducing the net cost of entering the trade. This can provide a more affordable way to leverage significant market positions without a substantial upfront investment. The Net Debit paid is 403.4 (690 – 143.3 – 143.3) = $2,017 since each YM point is worth $5.
Note: We are using the CME Group Options Calculator in order to generate fair value prices and Greeks for any options on futures contracts.
3. Profit in Multiple Market Conditions
Versatile Profit Scenarios: Depending on the setup, Ratio Spreads can be profitable in a stagnant, slightly bullish, or slightly bearish market. The key is the strategic selection of strike prices relative to expected market behavior, enabling profits through slight directional moves while protected against losses from significant adverse moves.
4. Flexible Adjustments
Scalability and Reversibility: Given their structure, Ratio Spreads allow for easy scaling or reversing positions depending on market movements and trader outlook. This flexibility can be a critical factor in dynamic markets where adjustments need to be swift and cost-effective.
Risk Management in Ratio Spreads
While Ratio Spreads offer several benefits, they are not without risks, particularly from significant market moves that can lead to potentially unlimited losses. Here’s how to manage those risks:
Stop-Loss Orders: Setting stop-losses at predetermined levels can help traders exit positions that move against them, preventing larger losses.
Position Monitoring: Regular monitoring and analysis are crucial, especially as the market approaches or reaches the strike price of the short options.
Adjustments: Being proactive about adjusting the spread, either by buying back short options or by rolling the positions to different strikes or expiries, can help manage risk and lock in profits.
Conclusion
Ratio Spreads, particularly in the format of Bullish Call Ratio Spreads demonstrated with E-mini Dow Jones Futures, offer a sophisticated strategy that balances potential profit with manageable risks. This approach is suited for traders who have a nuanced understanding of market dynamics and can navigate the complexities of options with strategic finesse.
When charting futures, the data provided could be delayed. Traders working with the ticker symbols discussed in this idea may prefer to use CME Group real-time data plan on TradingView: www.tradingview.com This consideration is particularly important for shorter-term traders, whereas it may be less critical for those focused on longer-term trading strategies.
General Disclaimer:
The trade ideas presented herein are solely for illustrative purposes forming a part of a case study intended to demonstrate key principles in risk management within the context of the specific market scenarios discussed. These ideas are not to be interpreted as investment recommendations or financial advice. They do not endorse or promote any specific trading strategies, financial products, or services. The information provided is based on data believed to be reliable; however, its accuracy or completeness cannot be guaranteed. Trading in financial markets involves risks, including the potential loss of principal. Each individual should conduct their own research and consult with professional financial advisors before making any investment decisions. The author or publisher of this content bears no responsibility for any actions taken based on the information provided or for any resultant financial or other losses.
IBKR Interactive Brokers Group Options Ahead of EarningsAnalyzing the options chain and the chart patterns of IBKR Interactive Brokers Group prior to the earnings report this week,
I would consider purchasing the 135usd strike price Calls with
an expiration date of 2024-9-20,
for a premium of approximately $2.20.
If these options prove to be profitable prior to the earnings release, I would sell at least half of them.
VALE Options Ahead of EarningsAnalyzing the options chain and the chart patterns of VALE prior to the earnings report this week,
I would consider purchasing the 12usd strike price Calls with
an expiration date of 2024-6-21,
for a premium of approximately $0.79.
If these options prove to be profitable prior to the earnings release, I would sell at least half of them.
DDOG Datadog Options Ahead of EarningsIf you haven`t sold DDOG before the previous earnings:
Then analyzing the options chain and the chart patterns of DDOG Datadog prior to the earnings report this week,
I would consider purchasing the 125usd strike price Puts with
an expiration date of 2024-6-21,
for a premium of approximately $9.10.
If these options prove to be profitable prior to the earnings release, I would sell at least half of them.
Nifty50 Options Trading Plan: 3rd May to 9th MayGreetings traders,
I'm excited to share my trading plan for the Nifty50 options from 3rd May to 9th May. Let's dive into the analysis and potential scenarios.
Bullish Outlook:
Firstly, I hold a bullish sentiment for the Nifty50 9th May expiration option contract. Based on my analysis, I foresee two possible scenarios unfolding during this period.
Scenario 1: Dip Buying Opportunity
In the first scenario, I anticipate that Nifty may experience a temporary dip, possibly down to the levels of 22500/22400. This presents an excellent opportunity to buy call options at a discounted price, setting the stage for potential gains.
Scenario 2: Rally Commences
Alternatively, Nifty could kickstart a rally from tomorrow onwards, with targets set around 23000/23100. This scenario would signify a strong upward momentum, offering profitable opportunities for traders.
Trading Strategy:
Now, let's delve into the specifics of my trading strategy based on these scenarios.
Scenario 1 Unfolds:
If Nifty dips as anticipated, I have set a target range of 22800/22900. In this scenario, I plan to buy the 22650 call option at or below 60.80, considering its current price at 182.00. My target exit range for this trade is set at 200/210, adopting a "hero zero" mode strategy to maximize potential gains.
Scenario 2 Execution:
Should Nifty initiate a rally towards 23000/23100, I will adjust my strategy accordingly to capitalize on the upward momentum and potential price movements.
Conclusion:
With a bullish outlook and a well-defined trading plan for both scenarios, I am prepared to navigate the Nifty50 options market from 3rd May to 9th May. Remember, trading involves risk, so always implement risk management strategies and stay updated with market developments.
Happy trading and may the markets be in your favor!
Analyzing Nifty50 Spot's Triangle Pattern Breakout Trade PlanGreetings fellow traders,
I've been closely monitoring the Nifty50 spot since April 25th and have observed a range-bound movement, forming what appears to be a triangle pattern. I anticipate a breakout from this pattern tomorrow, which could lead to significant moves in the market.
My trade plan revolves around this potential breakout. If Nifty50 breaks out tomorrow, my targets are set at T1 (22727.80) and T2 (22895.40) . However, for the breakout to sustain above T1, my proprietary option pricing calculations indicate that the 22550 put option (2nd May expiration) should trade below 10.15 (today's closing price was 57.35).
Therefore, I'm planning to buy the 22550 put option above T1, with a stop loss set at 10.10 to manage risk effectively.
Let's stay tuned and execute this trade plan strategically.
Options Blueprint Series: Debit Spreads - Precision InvestingIntroduction to Options on Corn Futures
Corn Futures are one of the staple commodities traded on the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT), representing a critical component of the agricultural sector's financial instruments. Each Corn Futures contract is standardized to 5,000 bushels, and the price is quoted in USD-cents per bushel.
Contract Specifications:
Point Value: 1/4 of one cent (0.0025) per bushel = $12.50.
Margins: Trading on margin allows traders to leverage positions while only needing to cover a fraction of the total contract value. For Corn Futures, the initial margin requirement is set by the CME Group and varies based on market volatility: Currently $1,300 per contract at the time of this publication.
Options trading introduces another layer of complexity and opportunity. Debit spreads involve purchasing one option and selling another, which helps manage the overall cost of entering the market.
Margin for Debit Spreads:
The margin for debit spreads typically reflects the premium paid for the long position minus any premium received from the short position. This results in a significantly lower margin requirement compared to trading the underlying futures contract outright. (In the below example the net premium paid for the spread is 7.26 points = $363, which is significantly lower than $1,300).
Understanding Debit Spreads
Debit spreads are a sophisticated options trading strategy utilized primarily to achieve a targeted investment outcome while managing risk exposure. They are constructed by purchasing an option (call or put) while simultaneously selling another option of the same type (call or put) but with a different strike price, within the same expiration period. The aim is to reduce the net cost of the position, as the premium received from the sold option offsets part of the cost incurred from the bought option.
Mechanics of Debit Spreads:
Long Position: You buy an option that you expect to increase in value as the market moves in your favor.
Short Position: You sell another option with a higher strike (in the case of a call spread) or a lower strike (in the case of a put spread). This option is expected to expire worthless or decrease in value, offsetting the cost of the long position.
Advantages of Using Debit Spreads:
Defined Risk: The maximum loss on a debit spread is limited to the net premium paid plus transaction costs. This makes it easier to manage risk, especially in volatile markets.
Potential for Profit: Although the profit potential is capped at the difference between the strike prices minus the net debit paid, these spreads can still offer attractive returns relative to the risk undertaken.
Lower Cost of Entry: Compared to buying a single option, spreads typically require a lower upfront investment, making them accessible to a wider range of traders.
This strategic application is what we'll explore next in the context of Corn Futures, where market conditions suggest a potential breakout.
Application in Corn Futures
For traders looking to harness the volatility in the agricultural sector, especially in commodities like corn, debit spreads can be a precision tool for structured trading. Given the current trading range of Corn Futures, with prices oscillating between 424 cents and 448 cents per bushel for a number of weeks, a strategic setup can be envisioned aiming for an upward breakout towards 471 cents, a resistance level indicated by Sell UnFilled Orders (UFOs).
Strategy Implementation with Debit Spreads:
Long Call Option: Buying a call option with a strike price near the lower end of the current range (450) positions traders to benefit from potential upward movements. Premium paid is 10.39 ($519.5)
Short Call Option: Simultaneously, selling a call option with a strike price at 475 cents caps the maximum profit but significantly reduces the cost of entering the trade. This strike is chosen because it aligns closely with the expected UFO resistance level, enhancing the probability of the short option expiring worthless. Premium received is 3.13 ($156.5).
The net cost of the spread ($519.5 - $156.5 = $363) represents the total risk. We are using the CME Group Options Calculator in order to generate fair value prices and Greeks for any options on futures contracts.
Setting up the Trade
To potentially capitalize on the anticipated market movement for Corn Futures, our debit spread strategy will involve a detailed setup of options trades based on specific strike prices that align with market expectations and technical analysis. This step-by-step guide will provide clarity on how to effectively enter and manage this options strategy.
Trade Details:
Long Call Option: Buy a call option with a strike price of 450. This option is chosen as it is near the current upper boundary of the trading range, providing a favorable entry point as we anticipate a breakout.
Short Call Option: Sell a call option with a strike price of 475. This strike is selected based on its proximity to the identified resistance level at 471, suggesting a high likelihood that the price may not exceed this level before expiration.
Cost and Profit Analysis:
Net Premium Paid: $363 as discussed above.
Break-even Point: Long strike price (450) plus the net premium paid = 457.26.
Maximum Profit: The maximum profit for this debit spread is capped at the difference between the two strike prices minus the net premium paid = 475 – 450 – 7.26 = 17.74 = $887.
Maximum Loss: The maximum risk is limited to the net premium paid.
Risk Management
By entering a debit spread, traders not only define their maximum risk but also set clear targets for profitability based on established market thresholds. This methodical approach ensures that even if the anticipated price movement does not fully materialize, the financial exposure remains controlled.
Risk Management Techniques:
Position Sizing: Determine the appropriate size of the position based on overall portfolio risk and individual risk tolerance.
Stop-Loss Orders: Although the maximum loss is capped by the nature of the debit spread (the net premium paid), stop-loss orders can be used if the underlying asset moves against the trader.
Rolling the Spread: If market conditions change or the initial price target is reached earlier than expected, consider 'rolling' the spread.
Adjusting the Trade:
If the price of Corn Futures approaches the short strike price (475) faster than anticipated, and market sentiment indicates further upward potential, the short call option can be bought back while a new higher strike call can be sold. This adjustment aims to extend the profitable range of the spread without increasing the original risk by much.
Conversely, if the price seems unlikely to reach the 450 mark, reassess the viability of keeping the spread open. It may be prudent to close the position early to preserve capital if fundamental market factors have shifted negatively.
Importance of Continuous Monitoring:
Regularly monitor market conditions, including factors like weather reports, agricultural policies, and economic indicators that significantly impact corn prices.
Stay updated with technical analysis charts and adjust strategies according to new resistance and support levels identified.
Effective risk management not only protects from downside risk but also enhances the potential for profitability by adapting to changing market conditions.
Conclusion
The strategic use of debit spreads in Corn Futures options trading offers a balanced approach to leverage market opportunities while maintaining strict control over potential risks.
Recap of Key Points:
Corn Options on Futures: Understanding the contract specifics is crucial for informed trading decisions.
Debit Spreads: These allow traders to benefit from expected price movements with reduced upfront costs and limited risk.
Trade Setup: Focused on a potential breakout from the 448-424 range aiming towards 471, utilizing 450 and 475 strikes for the long and short calls respectively.
Risk Management: Emphasizes the importance of position sizing, potential use of stop-loss orders, and the flexibility to adjust or roll the spread according to market changes.
When charting futures, the data provided could be delayed. Traders working with the ticker symbols discussed in this idea may prefer to use CME Group real-time data plan on TradingView: www.tradingview.com This consideration is particularly important for shorter-term traders, whereas it may be less critical for those focused on longer-term trading strategies.
General Disclaimer:
The trade ideas presented herein are solely for illustrative purposes forming a part of a case study intended to demonstrate key principles in risk management within the context of the specific market scenarios discussed. These ideas are not to be interpreted as investment recommendations or financial advice. They do not endorse or promote any specific trading strategies, financial products, or services. The information provided is based on data believed to be reliable; however, its accuracy or completeness cannot be guaranteed. Trading in financial markets involves risks, including the potential loss of principal. Each individual should conduct their own research and consult with professional financial advisors before making any investment decisions. The author or publisher of this content bears no responsibility for any actions taken based on the information provided or for any resultant financial or other losses.
Z Zillow Group Options Ahead of EarningsAnalyzing the options chain and the chart patterns of Z Zillow Group prior to the earnings report this week,
I would consider purchasing the 47.50usd strike price Calls with
an expiration date of 2024-6-21,
for a premium of approximately $2.15.
If these options prove to be profitable prior to the earnings release, I would sell at least half of them.
CHK Chesapeake Energy Corporation Options Ahead of EarningsIf you haven`t bought CHK before the previous earnings:
Then analyzing the options chain and the chart patterns of CHK Chesapeake Energy Corporation prior to the earnings report this week,
I would consider purchasing the 92.50usd strike price Calls with
an expiration date of 2024-5-17,
for a premium of approximately $0.95.
If these options prove to be profitable prior to the earnings release, I would sell at least half of them.
Options Blueprint Series: Credit Spreads for Weekly PlaysIntroduction
Credit spreads are a sophisticated options strategy involving the simultaneous purchase and sale of options of the same class and expiration, but at different strike prices. This approach is particularly effective in scenarios where the trader seeks to capitalize on premium decay while maintaining controlled risk exposure. Commonly used in volatile markets, credit spreads can offer a strategic advantage by allowing traders to position themselves in accordance with their market outlook and risk tolerance.
Understanding Credit Spreads
Selling one option and buying another with the same expiration date but different strike prices is done to earn the premium (credit) received from selling the higher-priced option, offset by the cost of buying the lower-priced option. There are two main types of credit spreads: Call Spreads and Put Spreads, specifically Bull Put Spreads and Bear Call Spreads.
Bull Put Spreads: This strategy involves selling a put option with a higher strike price (receiving a premium) and buying a put option with a lower strike price (paying a premium), both on the same underlying asset and expiration. The trader anticipates that the asset's price will stay above the higher strike price at expiration, allowing them to keep the premium collected. This spread is termed "bull" because it profits from a bullish or upward-moving market.
Bear Call Spreads: Conversely, this strategy involves selling a call option with a lower strike price (receiving a premium) and buying a call option with a higher strike price (paying a premium). The expectation here is that the asset's price will remain below the lower strike price at expiration. This spread is called "bear" because it benefits from a bearish or downward-moving market.
Easy Way to Remember:
Bull Put Spread: Remember it as "selling insurance" on a stock you wouldn't mind owning. You're betting the stock price stays "bullish" or at least doesn't drop significantly.
Bear Call Spread: Think of it as "calling the top" on a stock. You're predicting that the stock won't go any higher, demonstrating a "bearish" outlook.
Risk Profile
The below graph illustrates the risk profile of a Bull Put Spread (Bullish Credit Spread that uses Puts):
WTI Crude Oil Options Contract Specifications
WTI Crude Oil options offer traders the opportunity to manage price risks in the highly volatile crude oil market. Key contract specifications include:
Point Value: Each contract represents 1,000 barrels of crude oil, with each point of movement equivalent to $1,000.
Trading Hours: Options trading is available from Sunday to Friday, providing extensive access to market participants around the globe.
Margin Requirements: Initial margins are set by the exchange and are adjusted according to market volatility. USD 6,281 at the time of this publication (based on the CME Group website).
Credit Spread Margin Calculation: For credit spreads, margins are typically lower as the margin for a credit spread in WTIC Crude Oil options is calculated based on the risk of the position, which is the difference between the strike prices minus the net credit received. This calculation ensures that the trader has sufficient funds to cover the potential maximum loss. (for example: a spread using the 78.5 and the 77.5 strikes which are 1 point away would require USD 1,000 minus the credit received).
Understanding these specifications is crucial for traders looking to employ credit spreads effectively, ensuring compliance with financial requirements and alignment with trading strategies.
Application to WTIC Crude Oil Options
Credit spreads are particularly suited to the Weekly Expiration WTIC Crude Oil Options due to their ability to capitalize on the oil market's frequent price fluctuations. The strategy's effectiveness is enhanced by the oil market's characteristics:
Market Dynamics: Crude oil prices are influenced by a myriad of factors including geopolitical events, supply-demand dynamics, and changes in global economic indicators. These factors can lead to significant price movements, creating opportunities for options traders.
Strategy Suitability: Given the volatile nature of crude oil, credit spreads allow traders to take a directional stance (bullish or bearish) while limiting risk to the difference between the strike prices minus the credit received. This is particularly advantageous in a market where sudden price swings can occur, as it provides a safety buffer in case WTI Crude Oil moves against the trader and then comes to back towards the desired direction.
By employing credit spreads, traders can leverage such market characteristics to potentially enhance returns while maintaining a clear risk management framework.
Forward-looking Trade Idea
For above TradingView price chart presents a trade setup as we consider the current market conditions and employ a put credit spread strategy, focusing on two UFO (UnFilled Orders) Support Price Levels that indicate potential support below the current market price of WTIC Crude Oil Futures. These levels suggest that prices are unlikely to drop below these thresholds anytime soon.
Trade Setup: Utilize the 78.5 and 77.5 put strike prices for the credit spread.
Sell a put option at the 78.5 strike price, where we expect the market will not fall below and collect 0.13 points (USD 130).
Buy a put option at the 77.5 strike price to limit downside risk and define the trade’s maximum loss and pay 0.07 points (USD 70).
Premium Collected: The credit received from this spread is the difference in premiums between the sold and bought puts, which contributes to the overall profitability if the options expire worthless. The net credit collected is USD 60 (130-70).
Expected Outcome: The best scenario is for WTIC Crude Oil prices to stay above the 78.5 strike at expiration, allowing the trader to retain the full premium collected while minimizing risk.
As seen on the above screenshot, we are using the CME Options Calculator in order to generate fair value prices and Greeks for any options on futures contracts.
This trade is predicated on the belief that the underlying crude oil price will remain stable or increase, ensuring that the prices do not fall to the strike price of the sold put, thereby maximizing the potential for profit from the premiums.
Risk Management
Effective risk management is crucial when employing credit spreads in trading. Given the defined risk nature of credit spreads, several strategies can be implemented:
Position Sizing: Adjust the number of spreads to fit within the overall risk tolerance of the trading portfolio, ensuring that potential losses do not exceed pre-determined thresholds.
Stop-Loss Orders: Although credit spreads have a built-in maximum loss, setting stop-loss orders based on market price can help lock in profits or prevent excessive losses in volatile market conditions.
Monitoring: Regular monitoring of market conditions and adjusting positions as necessary can help manage risks associated with unexpected market movements.
Conclusion
Credit spreads offer a strategic advantage for options traders looking to leverage market movements while controlling risk. By focusing on premium collection and employing a disciplined approach to risk management, traders can enhance their chances of success in the volatile WTIC Crude Oil options market.
When charting futures, the data provided could be delayed. Traders working with the ticker symbols discussed in this idea may prefer to use CME Group real-time data plan on TradingView: www.tradingview.com This consideration is particularly important for shorter-term traders, whereas it may be less critical for those focused on longer-term trading strategies.
General Disclaimer:
The trade ideas presented herein are solely for illustrative purposes forming a part of a case study intended to demonstrate key principles in risk management within the context of the specific market scenarios discussed. These ideas are not to be interpreted as investment recommendations or financial advice. They do not endorse or promote any specific trading strategies, financial products, or services. The information provided is based on data believed to be reliable; however, its accuracy or completeness cannot be guaranteed. Trading in financial markets involves risks, including the potential loss of principal. Each individual should conduct their own research and consult with professional financial advisors before making any investment decisions. The author or publisher of this content bears no responsibility for any actions taken based on the information provided or for any resultant financial or other losses.
XOM Exxon Mobil Corporation Options Ahead of EarningsIf you haven`t bought the dip on XOM:
Then analyzing the options chain and the chart patterns of XOM Exxon Mobil Corporation prior to the earnings report this week,
I would consider purchasing the 120usd strike price Calls with
an expiration date of 2025-1-17,
for a premium of approximately $10.05.
If these options prove to be profitable prior to the earnings release, I would sell at least half of them.
PSX Phillips 66 Options Ahead of Earnings Analyzing the options chain and the chart patterns of PSX Phillips 66 prior to the earnings report this week,
I would consider purchasing the 150usd strike price Calls with
an expiration date of 2024-7-19,
for a premium of approximately $14.05.
If these options prove to be profitable prior to the earnings release, I would sell at least half of them.
CLRB Cellectar Biosciences Options Ahead of EarningsAnalyzing the options chain and the chart patterns of CLRB Cellectar Biosciences prior to the earnings report this week,
I would consider purchasing the 5usd strike price in the money Puts with
an expiration date of 2024-4-19,
for a premium of approximately $1.15.
If these options prove to be profitable prior to the earnings release, I would sell at least half of them.
WFC Wells Fargo & Company Options Ahead of EarningsIf you haven`t bought the dip on WFC:
Then analyzing the options chain and the chart patterns of WFC Wells Fargo & Company prior to the earnings report this week,
I would consider purchasing the 60usd strike price Calls with
an expiration date of 2025-1-17,
for a premium of approximately $4.85.
If these options prove to be profitable prior to the earnings release, I would sell at least half of them.
WAL Western Alliance Bancorporation Options Ahead of EarningsIf you haven`t bought WAL before the previous earnings:
Then analyzing the options chain and the chart patterns of WAL Western Alliance Bancorporation prior to the earnings report this week,
I would consider purchasing the 52.50usd strike price in the money Calls with
an expiration date of 2024-6-21,
for a premium of approximately $6.35.
If these options prove to be profitable prior to the earnings release, I would sell at least half of them.
MSFT Microsoft Corporation Options Ahead of EarningsIf you haven`t entered MSFT when they bought 49% of OpenAI:
nor on the comparison to AMZN and GOOGL:
Then analyzing the options chain and the chart patterns of MSFT Microsoft Corporation prior to the earnings report this week,
I would consider purchasing the 410usd strike price Calls with
an expiration date of 2024-6-21,
for a premium of approximately $14.25.
If these options prove to be profitable prior to the earnings release, I would sell at least half of them.