What are ITM call options?
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ITM call options are options contracts where the strike price is lower than the current market price of the underlying asset, giving them intrinsic value.
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An in-the-money (ITM) call option is a type of options contract where the strike price is lower than the current market price of the underlying asset. This means the option holds intrinsic value, allowing the holder to buy the asset at a favourable price compared to the market rate.
Also Read: OTM Call Options
In The Money call options have distinct risks and benefits that investors need to consider when incorporating them into their investment strategies.
Intrinsic Value: One of the most significant advantages of ITM call options is their intrinsic value. They are called “in the money” because the strike price is favourable compared to the current market price of the underlying asset. This means that if exercised, the option immediately results in a profit.
Additonal Read : What is Margin Call and Why It Is Important
Profit Potential: ITM call options offer an opportunity for substantial profits. They allow investors to participate in the price appreciation of the underlying asset without the need to own the asset outright. As the underlying asset’s price rises, the value of the ITM call option increases.
Reduced Time Decay: In comparison to out-of-the-money (OTM) options, ITM options are less affected by time decay. This means that as the expiration date approaches, the option’s value is more stable. It doesn’t erode as quickly as OTM options, which can make them more predictable.
Also Read: Implied Volatility In Options
Higher Premium: ITM call options come with a higher upfront cost in the form of a premium. This higher cost means that investors need to commit more capital initially, which can be a significant drawback.
Limited Time Horizon: Although they are less affected by time decay compared to OTM options, ITM call options still have an expiration date. If the price of the underlying asset doesn’t rise significantly within the option’s timeframe, investors may not realise the full profit potential, and the option may expire worthless.
Market Reversal: If market sentiment swings and the underlying asset’s price decreases, the intrinsic value of the option may diminish. As a result, investors may suffer losses.
Opportunity Cost: By investing in ITM call options, investors tie up funds that could have been used for other investments or opportunities. This opportunity cost should be carefully considered.
Cost of Carry: Holding ITM call options may involve costs, such as interest or financing costs if investors use margin or borrowed funds to buy the options. These costs can eat into potential profits.
Consider a stock currently trading at INR 1,500. If a trader holds a call option with a strike price of INR 1,400, the option is considered in-the-money because the holder can buy the stock at INR 1,400 instead of the market price of INR 1,500. The intrinsic value of the option in this case would be INR 100 (1,500 - 1,400), excluding any premium paid.
For another scenario, if the stock price increases to INR 1,600, the ITM call option provides a profit opportunity, as the strike price remains INR 1,400 while the market price rises. This difference enhances the potential return for the option holder.
When an option expires in-the-money, it is generally exercised automatically if held in a trading account. The holder either buys the underlying asset at the strike price (for a call option) or sells it (for a put option). The profit or loss depends on the difference between the strike price and the market value at expiration.
For instance, if an ITM call option has a strike price of INR 1,400 and the stock closes at INR 1,550 on expiration day, the holder can exercise the option to buy the stock at INR 1,400 and either hold or sell it at the market price. If the option is not exercised, its intrinsic value is lost, resulting in a financial impact.
Investors may consider using ITM call options when they expect a moderate or strong upward movement in the underlying asset’s price. ITM options can also be useful in hedging strategies to limit downside risks while maintaining exposure to potential gains. Due to their intrinsic value, ITM call options are commonly preferred by traders who aim for lower risk and a higher probability of profit.
Also Read: Option Volatility and Pricing Strategies
In conclusion, ITM options are versatile financial instruments that offer various advantages to investors. They are best suited for those with a bullish outlook on an asset, seeking to benefit from price appreciation or employing risk management strategies. ITM calls can be valuable for long-term investments, generating income, or diversifying portfolios. However, it’s crucial to carefully assess the market environment, individual objectives, and risk tolerance before engaging with ITM call options. Properly used, they can provide an efficient means of participating in asset price movements, while understanding their potential costs and limitations is essential for making informed investment decisions.
Disclaimer: Investments in the securities market are subject to market risk, read all related documents carefully before investing.
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ITM call options are options contracts where the strike price is lower than the current market price of the underlying asset, giving them intrinsic value.
Exercising an ITM call option before expiration results in acquiring the underlying asset at the strike price, potentially securing a favourable market position.
ITM call options require an upfront premium, and exercising them involves purchasing the underlying asset, which may require substantial capital.
The price of an ITM option is based on intrinsic value and time value, influenced by market conditions, volatility, and interest rates.
Yes, ITM call options have a positive intrinsic value, calculated as the difference between the market price and the strike price.
ITM options are typically exercised automatically, while OTM and at-the-money (ATM) options expire worthless unless sold before expiration.
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