Put Buying When it comes to options trading, it starts with calls and puts. The long put has similar characteristics of a short stock position, but it doesn’t require a margin account to trade, and is open to options traders who are cleared to trade at the second...

Options can be an exciting form of trading, and there can be opportunities to make big profits while also reducing risks. However, with so many options strategies to choose from, it can be challenging for a beginner to decide which approach will work best. As you...

While the long call spread allows an options trader to place a moderately bullish bet on a stock, the long put spread is what bears use to position for a move lower -- though they also have a downside target in mind. By combining a long put with a short one, a...

Long Straddle Let’s face it, most investors who get involved with options stick to the basics -- calls and puts. However, what sets options trading apart from equity trading is versatility. The more you learn about the ins and outs of options trading, the more...

The short straddle strategy is just the opposite of the long straddle and consists of simultaneously selling a call option and a put option with the same strike price and expiration date. And while you want to buy a long straddle when volatility is running low, you...