What is a Strangle Option? A Comprehensive Legal Overview

Definition & Meaning

A strangle option is an investment strategy involving the purchase of both a put option and a call option for the same underlying asset. These options have the same expiration date but different strike prices. This strategy is designed to profit from significant price movements in the underlying asset, regardless of the direction of the movement.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: An investor purchases a call option for a stock with a strike price of $50 and a put option with a strike price of $40, both expiring in one month. If the stock price rises significantly above $50 or falls below $40, the investor can profit from the strangle option.

Example 2: An investor anticipates high volatility in a tech stock before earnings reports. They buy a strangle option with a call at $100 and a put at $90, expecting the stock to move significantly in either direction. (hypothetical example)

Comparison with related terms

Term Description Key Differences
Straddle Option Involves purchasing a put and a call option with the same strike price and expiration date. Strangles have different strike prices, while straddles do not.
Call Option Gives the holder the right to buy an asset at a specified price before expiration. Strangles involve both call and put options, while call options are singular.
Put Option Gives the holder the right to sell an asset at a specified price before expiration. Strangles involve both put and call options, while put options are singular.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you're considering using a strangle option, start by researching the underlying asset and market conditions. It's essential to understand the risks involved. You can explore US Legal Forms for templates and resources to help you navigate the process. If the situation feels complex, consider consulting a financial advisor or legal professional for tailored advice.

Quick facts

  • Typical fees: Varies by broker.
  • Jurisdiction: Regulated by the SEC and CFTC in the US.
  • Possible penalties: Loss of investment, depending on market movements.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

The primary advantage is the potential to profit from significant price movements in either direction.