TraderPlanet Futures and Options Trading CommunityShort option trading in the commodity markets is sometimes touted as an easy money strategy, but the truth is there is no such thing as easy money in the commodity markets.

Nevertheless, there are some compelling arguments to suggest that option sellers face favorable odds of success over option buyers, or outright futures traders. But, even putting the odds in your favor doesn’t guarantee a favorable outcome. Here are some aspects of option selling that should be considered before employing a premium collection strategy.

 

1. It takes money to make money when selling options on futures


Short option traders must be properly funded to be capable of riding out any storm that might materialize. During times of excessive commodity market volatility, many traders turn to the limited risk of option buying. This has a tendency to artificially inflate commodity option prices, due to the increase in demand for the securities. Also, in a more volatile market environment, commodity traders often believe it is more likely that a long option strategy will have an opportunity to pay off. I argue this is a false perception because options on futures buyers must overcome their cost of entry before turning a profit; the higher the price of the option on the way in, the bigger the obstacle to being profitable will be. Nevertheless, in all of the excitement traders often behave emotionally rather than logically; as a result, they exuberantly bid up the prices of low probability options to shocking levels.

Continue reading this article on TraderPlanet.

Futures and Options Trading Booksby Carley Garner

What People are Saying about Our Commodity Trading Books

Choosing a Futures Broker and Brokerage Service

Full-Service or Online Trading?

The decision to trade online or through a full-service commodity broker will undoubtedly make a large impact on your bottom line.

Learn More

A Fair Commission Rate vs. Low Commission

To look at commission rates objectively, we must understand the background of the futures industry and how brokerages accept risk for fees.

Learn More

Choosing a Commodity Brokerage Firm

Deciding on a commodity brokerage firm is a significant decision and shouldn’t be taken lightly. Not all traders and brokers are compatible.

Learn More

Choosing a Futures and Options Broker

Most traders in search of a futures broker are concerned primarily with trading platforms, commission, and quality guidance.

Learn More

The Truth about Futures Commission

The goal of futures trading should be to MAKE money, not SAVE it! Discount commodity brokers cut corners that cost their clients time & money.

Learn More

Commodities via Futures or ETFs?

A key difference to trading commodity futures over ETFs is leverage, but there is more to discuss, such as taxes, market hours, and efficiency.

Learn More