Out of The Money (OTM)
1. Definition
OTM refers to an option that has no intrinsic value. It is purely a speculative bet that the price will move significantly before expiration.
2. Key Characteristics
- Zero Intrinsic Value: The price consists 100% of Time Value. If the option expires OTM, you lose your entire investment.
- Cheapest Premium: Because the probability of profit is low, these are the cheapest options to buy.
- Massive Leverage: A small move in the stock price can result in a huge percentage gain in the option price (if it moves in your favor).
3. Investment Logic (Delta)
- Delta: Low (Close to 0).
- Risk: Highly sensitive to Time Decay (Theta). As expiration nears, OTM options lose value very quickly.
- Usage:
- Buyers: Speculators looking for "Lottery Tickets" or cheap hedging (Insurance).
- Sellers: Income seekers who sell OTM options hoping they expire worthless to collect the premium.