Investors can engage in options trading by buying and selling contracts, which are also called derivatives. These contracts are based on underlying assets like stocks, bonds, commodities, and currencies. Options allow traders to hedge their positions or speculate on price movements with limited risk. Four options trades are available: Calls, Puts, Covered Calls, and Spreads.
A call option
A call option gives the buyer the right without the obligation to purchase an asset at a set price (the strike price) before an expiration date.
A put option
A put option gives the right to sell an asset at a set price before expiration. Buying calls can be used by traders who expect prices to rise in the future; buying puts can be used by traders who expect prices to fall.
Covered calls
A covered call is an overall options strategy that involves selling a call option against shares already owned in the same underlying security. It can generate income from your existing investments or protect you from potential losses due to price changes. By writing a call option, you give someone else the right to purchase your stock at a predetermined price (strike price) before the expiration date. In exchange, you are paid a premium for taking on this risk.
Spreads
In options spread trade, two options contracts are bought and sold simultaneously with contrasting strike prices and expiry dates to take advantage of differences in price movements between them. This strategy aims to profit from the price difference between two options contracts without taking too much risk.
Options trading carries inherent risks
Risk is an inherent part of options trading, and investors should know the potential risks before engaging in any options trades. First, there is the risk of time decay. Options have a limited lifespan, and this can lead to losses if the option’s value falls below the strike price before expiry. Second, there is a risk of liquidity.
Options are only sometimes actively traded, so it may be challenging to exit an options trade quickly or at a reasonable price. Third, there is a risk of volatility. The price movements associated with options are often unpredictable, and traders must be prepared for sudden price changes that could lead to unexpected losses. Fourth, there is a risk of counterparty default. With options trading, you are typically dealing with another party, and if that party defaults on their commitment, you may also suffer losses.
Options trading can also carry significant political risks depending on the underlying asset or market conditions, such as interest rate changes or geopolitical events that can affect prices significantly. Margin calls can arise if your equity drops below certain levels due to market movements, and this could result in additional costs or losses for traders who do not manage their risk appropriately.
The benefits of using a broker when trading options in the UK
Using an experienced and reputable broker when trading options in the UK can offer many advantages to investors. A good broker will provide valuable advice and guidance on the best strategies for success and access to market information that may not be available elsewhere. Brokers also have connections with other traders and can help facilitate transactions between parties.
The main benefit of using a broker in the UK is that they are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). It means they must adhere to specific FCA standards and rules, which help protect investors from fraud or negligence. It also ensures that brokers always act in their client’s best interests. In addition, brokers must maintain adequate capital reserves to meet any financial obligations should something go wrong during an options trade.
Another advantage of using a broker is cost savings due to lower commission fees than those charged by online platforms or exchanges. Brokers typically charge flat rates per transaction rather than percentage-based commissions, making them more affordable for smaller trades or those with limited funds available for investment purposes. Additionally, brokers often offer discounts for larger orders or longer-term investments, helping reduce costs even further over time.
Brokers like Saxo Markets provide personalised services tailored to each trader’s goals and needs. It can include investment advice on specific strategies, risk management tools, and access to exclusive trading opportunities that may not be available elsewhere.
All in all
Options trading in the UK and other parts of the world can be a profitable way to invest, but it does come with some risk. Investors must understand the potential risks associated with options trading and how they can manage them effectively. Utilising the services of an experienced broker when engaging in options trades can help reduce these risks while also providing access to exclusive market information and discounts on commissions. By taking advantage of all that brokers offer, traders may increase their profits potentially while reducing their losses simultaneously.
