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What Is Lot Size In Options Trading?

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The trading of options and futures is done in ‘lots’. However, if you're someone who is just starting and looking to learn the basics, you might not be aware of the term. If you're someone wanting to learn about the ‘lot size', then you're at the right place. Continue reading as we explore everything relevant about lot size, including its meaning, purpose, modification, and much more. 

F&O or futures & options are financial instruments whose value is determined via the underlying assets like stocks, ETFs, bonds, etc. These futures and options are traded in lot sizes to standardise and ease the trading. Let's learn more about the same.

What is Lot Size?

Let's start with the basics. What is the lot size? Well, generally, a lot refers to a definite quantity in which an item is ordered. The lot size in trading is not much different. It refers to the number of total stocks a trader can buy in one transaction. Simply put, lot size determines the minimum scrips you can sell our buy-in options trading. 

This lot size is determined by SEBI to regulate the market’s price quote. SEBI defines the lot sizes for each index and stock that are eligible for trade in the F&O market. 

Since lot size is already defined, it helps traders be aware of the price they're willing to put in the market. This means in case lot sizes were not specified; it might lead to price deviation and not standardization with not-so-uniform bulk. 

Let's understand lot size with an example. Say, the lot size for NIFTY 50 is 100 shares. This means any trader willing to trade in options may buy it only in the multiples of 100. 

The sun value of the NIFTY 50 options contract is nothing but the product of its trading price and lot size. For example, say the value of NIFTY 50 is 1000 with a lot size of 500. This makes the total options contract of something around: 1000*500, i.e, ₹5,00,000. 

How are Lot Sizes Fixed for Options and Futures? 

Now that you know what a lot size is, let's move forward and see how they are fixed. Well, you already read that lot values are determined by the SEBI. At first, when options and futures trading started, SEBI fixed the indicative or notional value at ₹2 lakhs. Later, the apex body made some changes and specified a certain lot size to determine a specific indicative value. It specified that lot size would be a number which, when multiplied by the market price, should be valued at more than ₹2 lakhs. 

SEBI planned this move with a simple motto and it was to keep the indicative value of lot sizes a bit high. Wondering why? Well, it was done by SEBI to control small traders from trading carelessly and incurring big losses. 

Later in 2015, as the income and, with it, the purchasing capacity of individuals grew, SEBI revised the value of lot sizes. Now, it was fixed to ₹5 lakhs. In addition to that, the newly added stocks for options trading have determined lot sizes valuing ₹7.5 lakhs. Presently, lot size values of different companies keep ranging between five to ten lakhs. Furthermore, SEBI is also gauging the chances of further increasing this value. 

Why are Lot Sizes Modified?

SEBI keeps on modifying and revising lot sizes periodically. Why, you ask? Well, the same is done to keep market integrity intact and protect investors from huge losses. 

Here are some reasons that cause modification in lot sizes. 

  • Changing Market Conditions

The change in lot sizes can also be seen as a reflection of changing market conditions. This may include changes in the value of shares, price fluctuations, and other economic conditions. 

  • For Protecting Investors

As mentioned earlier, SEBI modified the lot size to protect small investors from careless inventions based on speculations. Thus, at times, lot size is aimed to protect investors from incurring losses. 

  • To Ensure Fair Trading 

The determination of lot size also ensures that the market is free and transparent for all traders. 

  • To Accommodate Different Traders

Modification in lot sizes also ensures that all kinds of traders are aware of the current values and can participate fairly based on their risk appetite and trading goals. 

The periodic modification of lot size ensures they look more indicative and reasonable and, thus, change with any significant change in the share’s value. Let's understand this with an example. Say, a company's shares are valued at ₹500 with a lot size of 3000. This makes the total lot value to be ₹1,500,000. 

Now, let's say as time passed, the price of the stocks rose to ₹650, making the new lot value to be ₹1,950,000. This is a huge deviation from the notional value determined by SEBI. In cases like this, SEBI may choose to revise the lot size and bring it down to 2500. This changes the lot value to: ₹650 *2500 = ₹1,625,000, which better reflects the indicative value.

Purpose of Lot Size

The lot sizes are determined for a variety of reasons. First, they help in standardising the futures. This ultimately comes in handy to maintain consistency in the market. In addition to that, lot sizes are seen as a crucial tool of SEBI to control market prices and quotations. With constant specifications about the derivative market, small lot sizes will be open to even small traders with little or no knowledge about market movements and their risks, which can push them into big losses. Thus, SEBI keeps on revising the lot size to make an entry barrier to control participation and big speculations. 

Conclusion

When it comes to futures and options trading, you cannot simply start without learning about lot sizes. They are crucial to understand market prices, movements, and much more. Investing in futures and options can seem beneficial for a variety of reasons. However, you also need to consider the risks before investing. Make sure to compare, calculate, and invest wisely. Further, keep a tab on SEBI revisions to understand market speculations.

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Disclaimer: Investments in the securities market are subject to market risk, read all related documents carefully before investing.

This content is for educational purposes only. Securities quoted are exemplary and not recommendatory.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Determines the Minimum Lot Size in Options Trading?

Answer Field

The minimum lot size for options trading is determined by the SEBI. It determines the lot sizes for each index and stock listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange(BSE) or National Stock Exchange (NSE). This determination of lot size is done based on factors like market movements, notional value, etc.

How Does Lot Size Affect the Liquidity of Options?

Answer Field

Lot sizes have a significant impact on the liquidity of options. The standardisation of lots makes it easy for traders to sell or buy them without worrying about major price fluctuations. In addition to that, the fixed sizes also empower the traders to easily calculate their potential gains and keep the market active, facilitating liquidity of options.

Can I Trade Multiple Lots in a Single Transaction?

Answer Field

Yes, you may trade multiple lots in a single transaction with a mixed lot order. Here, you trade using a combination of lots or one or more odd lots.

What Happens When SEBI Changes the Lot Size?

Answer Field

By changing the lot size, SEBI makes it restrictive for traders to trade carelessly. You now have to pay more entry costs, the margin requirements are also increased. In addition to that, SEBI revisions also impact liquidity and the overall market.

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