Options strategies are numerous and can be difficult for many investors to understand, the bull call spread is one such strategy. Investors looking for an edge in their trading have always been interested in employing the power of options. Using specific strategies can be a great way to reap large rewards with predefined risks.
Good option traders will generally take a certain market outlook or forecast and adjust their trades accordingly. This is also known as or called a vertical strategy and is perfect for anyone that is bullish or very bullish on the future direction of the security.
The strategy requires you to buy one option with a low strike price while also selling an option on the same security with a higher strike price. The lower strike priced calls will be in or at the money and the higher strike priced one will generally be out of the money. Remember that the options have to be for the same security and the same month.
Generally vertical spreads are categorized as a hedged investment for a couple of reasons. First the money you spent to buy the option with the lower strike price can be partially recouped when you receive the premium for writing the higher strike priced option. You are also hedged if the lower striked option is called. You can exercise the bought option and deliver the shares. In order for this to work correctly you need to be and sell equal amounts of options.
While the move can seem complex it really isn’t and can be traded by a broker fairly easily. Generally many options brokers will have a vertical spread option available on their online platforms or they can be reached on the phone to enter the trade. This kind of trade is not two separate trades and instead considered one single one.
When it comes to making a profit on this strategy you will attain a profit when the price of the underlying security passes the option with the higher strike price. You should also take time to calculate your BEP or your breakeven point and this can and should be calculated before entering the trade.
The Bull call spread is a great way for anyone that is either moderately or very bullish to make a profit using options. This trading strategy can be easily handled by any options broker and will not be counted as two commissions. Remember to figure out your breakeven point as well as your profit and loss scenarios before entering this kind of strategy.