Naked Option
Definition of 'Naked Option'A trading position where the seller of an option contract does not own any, or enough, of the underlying security to act as protection against adverse price movements. If the price of the underlying security moves against the trader, who does not already own the underlying security, he or she would be required to purchase the shares regardless of how high the price is. The potential for losses, then, can be unlimited, and as a result, brokers typically have specific rules regarding naked trading. Inexperienced traders, for example, would not be allowed to place this type of order. |
|
Investopedia explains 'Naked Option'Naked trading is considered very risky since losses can be significant. An options trader could sell, for example, call options with a strike price of $10. If the stock's price rises to $20 or $30 on good news, and the option is naked (the seller does not own the underlying stock). He or she would be required to buy the specified number of shares at the current price, and sell them to the option buyer for the $10, resulting in a significant loss. |
Related Definitions
Articles Of Interest
-
Naked Options Expose You To Risk
Find out why these enticing options can spell trouble for your bottom line. -
Naked Call Writing: A Risky Options Strategy
Learn about this aggressive trading strategy to generate income as part of a diversified portfolio. -
Options Basics Tutorial
Discover the world of options, from primary concepts to how options work and why you might use them. -
Should Your Options Go Naked?
Compare naked strategies to credit spreads and see if the unlimited risk of going naked is worth it. -
Making It Big On Wall Street
Read about some of the most glamorous Wall Street jobs and what it takes to land one. -
Quants: The Rocket Scientists Of Wall Street
Blend math, finance and computer skills to command a high - and well deserved - salary. -
Build A Baby Berkshire
Get a piece of Warren Buffett's profit by using Form 13F to coattail his picks. -
Cash: A Call Option With No Expiration Date
Cash is generally regarded as a drag on investment returns, but sometimes it may be preferable to hold a substantial cash amount instead of investing it in other assets. This is because having ... -
Should You Add A Securities License To Your Qualifications?
Clients love planners who sell securities, but a securities license takes a lot of work. Learn if the stress and study are worth it. -
Business Grads, Land Your Dream Job
Companies are in need of strategic candidates, not walking resumes. Find out how to set yourself apart from the pack and land the business career you've always wanted.
Free Annual Reports