: Realized if the stock price moves above the strike price plus the premium paid. Long Put (Bearish) Goal : You expect the stock price to fall . Right : You can sell the stock at the strike price. Risk : Limited to the premium paid.
: The predetermined price at which the stock can be bought or sold. buying and selling calls and puts
: The "deadline" for the contract. Unlike stocks, options do not last forever; they expire on a specific date. 2. Buying Options (Going "Long") : Realized if the stock price moves above
: One standard equity option contract typically controls 100 shares of the underlying stock. Risk : Limited to the premium paid
The Complete Guide to Buying and Selling Calls and Puts Options trading provides flexibility beyond simple stock ownership, allowing you to profit from upward, downward, and even sideways market movements. This guide breaks down the four essential moves every trader must master: buying calls, buying puts, selling calls, and selling puts. 1. The Core Building Blocks
: This is the price you pay (as a buyer) or receive (as a seller) for the contract. If an option is quoted at , the actual cost is
Before placing a trade, you need to understand the basic mechanics: