Mark Sebastian

Mark Sebastian is a former market maker on the Chicago Board Options Exchange (CBOE) and the American Stock Exchange (AMEX) and is currently the Director of Risk for a private hedge fund.

He writes a popular blog, Option911.com, where he posts his insight on the market multiple times a day. Mark’s writing can also be found in Expiring Monthly: The Option Trader’s Journal, which was launched in March 2010.

In Q2 2010, Mark became the Director of Education at OptionPit.com, a new education service that specializes in trade structure, risk management and efficient use of capital.

Recent Articles

Dick’s a Solid Put Trade as Economy Revives

By Mark Sebastian Feb 28, 2011

Dick’s Sporting Goods (NYSE: DKS) will see better earnings as the economy revives. Buy a bull put spread to profit in options.

Freeport Option Volatility Suggests Puts Trade

By Mark Sebastian Feb 18, 2011

Traders should consider a put option spread in Freeport-McMoran (NYSE: FCX) as the stock is trending down. Options offer many trading opportunities.

An Option Formula for Ex-Dividend Risk

By Mark Sebastian Feb 7, 2011

Option traders that sell a call short can check an ex-divided formula to determine if the stock will be called away. Goldman Sachs (NYSE: GS) is an example.

Hedging VIX Volatility an Advanced Strategy

By Mark Sebastian Feb 1, 2011

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) has become volatile again following Egyptian street demonstrations. Traders are seeking ways to insure their portfolios.

American Eagle Call Options Flying Right

By Mark Sebastian Jan 27, 2011

Retailer American Eagle Outfitters (NYSE: AEO) has rebounded and the March 16 Call options look attractive.