Calls, Puts & Options Trades

Options: Does ‘Active’ Mean ‘Profitable’?

The options that are the most active also tend to be low-yield hedges that aren't really suited toward retail investors. Here are five such examples.

Profit From the Dip in ZIP, Ride Ryder to Profits

The Hertz deal for Dollar Thrifty consolidated the rental car space, and has brought to light a couple attractive options trades in the small sector.

When Stocks Are Real Nice, Can You Buy Them Twice?

If you think a stock might move higher but have a few reservations, you can use calls to add to your bullish position.

3 Options Trades for the Little Guy

Small-money investors might be discouraged by triple-digit prices in the Apples of the world. Use options to unlock those stocks for a fraction of the price.

A Sector You Can Call: Homes

Homebuilders are soaring, and sector member Lennar is starting to get overbought -- but LEN might have enough pep for another push higher.

Even Calmer Waters Ahead for the VIX?

While volatility is expected to eventually head back north, short-term bears might consider this options trade.

The Next Apple at a Fraction of the Price?

Use call options to harness the run of this promising networker, then check out this bonus trade on a slumping tech stock.

Bond Bounce Is a Bearish Opportunity

The recent rise in Treasurys seems more empty bounce than rally with substance. If you're bearish on bonds, use this chance to execute an options play.

Use a Covered Call to Bid on eBay

The giant e-commerce company has been on a steady roll that should continue for at least a while longer, making it ripe for this option strategy.

Despite Facebook Debacle, Morgan Stanley Might Be a Buy

James Gorman has pared down risk at MS, and the wealth management division is a bright spot. MS might be a buy -- or a call option target.

Preparing Now for an Amgen Breakout

This bull call spread could be the ticket if biotech company AMGN resumes its climb after a recent period of consolidation.

Apple’s Volatility Is Abuzz

Apple's market cap milestone also came alongside a surge in implied volatility, teaching us two important lessons.

2 Ways to Jump on Galloping Silver

Here are two bullish option plays for traders who see more upside after SLV's stealthy break through a resistance zone at $27.50.

Bond Bloodbath Merits a Put Spread Roll

Thanks to the continued exodus from bonds, we have an opportunity to illustrate a trade adjustment for bull put spreads that run amiss.

Turn Pump Pain Into Profit With Exxon Mobil

Here's a long call play that could pay off in October, given Exxon Mobil's recent break above a resistance point and the likelihood for continued upside.

Take Your Portfolio to See ‘Hunger Games’

The Lions Gate smash is just starting to reel in the profits. The studio has been spending big to ensure the rest of the trilogy's success. It should pay off.

A Profitable Trip to Disneyland for Traders

This covered call strategy is perfect for summer vacation time. With Disney scoring on all fronts lately, why not have some fun while you're making money?

Amazon Options Have Gone on Sale

Amazon's implied volatility is in the gutter, which reveals the relative cheapness in options right now. AMZN bulls should consider these two option plays.

3 Option Plays With One Goal: Lots of Income

My favorites are plays where you can generate larger-than-usual premiums selling covered calls or naked puts. If you like cold hard cash, take a look.