What is ITM/ATM/OTM in Options


Posted by: Invos Research
Published on: January 11, 2023
What is ITM/ATM/OTM in Options

Continution to previous topic, below are few more important concepts to learn in option trading,

  1. In the Money (ITM): An option is considered in the money (ITM) if the current market price of the underlying asset is favorable for the option holder. For example, a call option is in the money if the current market price of the underlying asset is above the strike price. Similarly, a put option is in the money if the current market price of the underlying asset is below the strike price.
  2. Out of the Money (OTM): An option is considered out of the money (OTM) if the current market price of the underlying asset is not favorable for the option holder. For example, a call option is out of the money if the current market price of an underlying asset(stock) is below the strike price. Similarly, a put option is out of the money if the current market price of the underlying asset is above the strike price.
  3. At the Money (ATM): An option is considered at the money (ATM) if the current market price of the underlying asset(e.g. stock) is equal to the strike price.
  4. Time value: is the portion of the option premium that is attributed to the amount of time remaining until the option expires. The longer the time until expiration, the greater the time value of the option. As the expiration date approaches, the time value of an option will tend to decrease.
  5. Greeks : Greeks are a set of metrics which measure the sensitivity of the option price for different factors such as volatility, time and underlying asset price. Some of the commonly used Greeks are :Delta, Gamma, Theta, Vega, Rho.
  6. Spreads and Straddles : A spread is an options strategy in which the options trader will purchase one option and simultaneously sell another option of the same class, such as two options on the same underlying asset with the same expiration-date but different strike prices. A straddle is a options strategy where trader buys a call option and put option with the same strike price and expiration date.
  7. Hedging : Hedging is a technique of reducing the risk of an investment. It can be done by buying and selling options, which can help to offset the risk of an investment in the underlying asset.

These are just a few of the key concepts involved in option trading, and there is much more to learn. It's always advisable to start with a good understanding of financial markets and have a good risk management strategy before trying your hand in options trading.