How To Use "Delta" When Selling Options

When selling options, it's essential to consider the option's delta as it can significantly impact the trade's profitability. Delta measures the option's sensitivity to changes in the underlying asset's price. It ranges from 0 to 1 for call options and from 0 to -1 for put options. A delta of 0.5 means that for every $1 increase in the underlying asset's price, the call option's price will increase by $0.5. On the other hand, the put option's price will decrease by $0.5.

As an options seller, the delta can help you determine the level of risk you are willing to take on a trade. For example, if you sell an option with a delta of 0.2, it means that the option's price will only move $0.2 for every $1 move in the underlying asset's price. In this case, you are taking on less risk as the option's price is less sensitive to changes in the underlying asset's price.

On the other hand, if you sell an option with a delta of 0.8, it means that the option's price will move $0.8 for every $1 move in the underlying asset's price. In this case, you are taking on more risk as the option's price is highly sensitive to changes in the underlying asset's price.

Additionally, delta can help you determine the probability of the option expiring in-the-money. An option with a delta of 0.5 has a 50% chance of expiring in-the-money. As an options seller, you can use this information to your advantage by selling options with a lower delta to reduce the risk of the option expiring in-the-money.

Delta can also help you determine the optimal strike price for the option you are selling. If you want to sell an option that is slightly out-of-the-money, you can look for options with a delta between 0.2 and 0.3. On the other hand, if you want to sell an option that is closer to being in-the-money, you can look for options with a delta between 0.4 and 0.5.

In conclusion, delta is an essential metric to consider when selling options as it can significantly impact the trade's profitability and risk level. As an options seller, it's crucial to understand the relationship between delta and the underlying asset's price and use it to make informed trading decisions.