Options Strategy – Long Put
Long Put Strategy
A Long Put strategy is a straightforward and widely used options trading strategy. It involves purchasing a put option, giving the trader the right, but not the obligation, to sell a specific underlying asset at a predetermined strike price before or on the expiration date. This strategy is ideal for traders who anticipate a significant decline in the price of the underlying asset.
- Market Direction: Downward
- Difficulty: Easy
How It Works
- Purchase a Put Option: The trader buys a put option for a premium, gaining the right to sell the underlying asset at the strike price.
- Market Movement: The trader benefits if the market price of the underlying asset falls below the strike price minus the premium paid.
- Exercising the Option: If the asset’s price decreases significantly, the trader can exercise the option to sell at the higher strike price, buy at the lower market price, and realize a profit.
Example of a Long Put Strategy
Let’s say you believe that the stock price of Company ABC, currently trading at $50, will decrease in the near future. You decide to buy a put option with the following specifics:
- Underlying Asset: Company ABC stock
- Strike Price: $45
- Premium: $3 per share
- Expiration Date: 1 month from now
You purchase one put option contract, which represents 100 shares, so your total investment is:
100 shares x $3 (premium)= $300
Scenarios
Stock Price Falls Below Strike Price If, at expiration, the stock price falls to $35:
- Exercise the Option: You sell 100 shares at the strike price of $45.
- Market Value of Shares: $35 x100 = $3500
- Proceeds from Sale: $45 x 100 = $4500
- Profit: $4500 – $3500 = $1000
- Net Profit: $1000 – $300 (premium paid) = $700
Stock Price Remains Above Strike Price If, at expiration, the stock price remains at $50 or rises:
- The option expires worthless.
- Maximum Loss: The premium paid, which is $300.
Benefits of Long Put
- Limited Risk: The maximum loss is limited to the premium paid for the put option.
- Unlimited Profit Potential: There is no upper limit to the potential profit if the underlying asset’s price falls significantly.
- Hedging: Provides a way to hedge against potential declines in the value of assets you own.
The Long Put strategy is an excellent choice for traders looking to capitalize on bearish market expectations with limited risk.
Read Next