Call Options Explained: Meaning, How They Work, and Key Differences from Put Options

Are you looking to supercharge your investment strategy and take advantage of market opportunities? Look no further than call options. In the dynamic world of finance, these offer a world of possibilities for investors. 

It is a financial contract that grants the holder the right, but not the obligation, to buy an underlying asset at a predetermined price within a specific time frame. It allows you to control the potential upside of an asset’s price movement without committing to full ownership. This unique characteristic opens doors to various strategies that can help you amplify profits, protect investments, and generate income.

In this blog, we will delve into the intricacies of a call option, including its meaning, types, factors to consider and various strategies for successful trading.

What is Call Option in Share Market?

Meaning of Call Option

A call option is a financial agreement granting the purchaser the right, but not the obligation, to buy an asset at a predetermined price, called the strike price, within a defined period. The underlying asset can include various financial instruments, such as shares, bonds, or commodities. This allows investors to gain exposure to different assets without actually owning them.

When you buy a call option, you speculate that the asset’s price will rise above the strike price. If the price rises as expected, you can exercise the option and buy the asset at a lower price. This allows you to potentially profit from the difference between the market price and the strike price. The profit is the difference between the market price and strike price, minus the premium paid.

However, if the asset’s price does not exceed the strike price, you are not obligated to exercise the option. You can let the option expire, limiting your loss to the premium paid for the call option. This aspect reduces downside risk, as you avoid buying the asset if market conditions are unfavourable, providing financial protection.

Types of Call Option

Here are the various types of call options:

• American Call Option: This provides the holder with the right to exercise the option at any point before the expiration date.
• European Call Option: This allows the holder to exercise the option only on the expiration date and not before.
• In-the-Money Call Option: This is one where the strike price is lower than the current market price of the underlying asset, indicating potential profitability upon exercising the option.
• At-the-Money Call Option: This option has a strike price that matches the current market price of the underlying asset, offering a neutral stance for potential gains or losses.
• Out-of-the-Money Call Option: This occurs when the strike price is higher than the current market price of the underlying asset, making it less likely for the option to be profitable upon exercise.

How Does Call Option Trading Work?

A call option grants the buyer the right, though not the obligation, to purchase an underlying asset at a predetermined strike price by a specified expiration date. Conversely, the seller of the option is obligated to sell the asset at the strike price if the buyer chooses to exercise the option.

Trading call options operate on the belief that the price of the underlying asset will rise. If the asset’s price increases, the buyer of the option can exercise the option and acquire the asset at the predetermined strike price, which is typically lower than the market price. This results in a profitable outcome for the buyer.

Let’s understand how it works with the help of an example. 

Call Option Example

Imagine purchasing a call option for Apple stock in the share market with a strike price of ₹100 and an expiration date in one month. If the Apple stock price rises to ₹120 on the expiration date, you can exercise your option, buying Apple stock at ₹100 and then selling it at ₹120, yielding a ₹20 profit.

However, if the Apple stock price drops to ₹80 on the expiration date, it would be unprofitable to exercise the option. In such a case, it is more advantageous to buy the stock at a lower market price.

Steps Involved in Call Option Trading

• Select the Underlying Asset: Choose the asset (e.g., stock, bond, commodity, currency) on which you wish to trade call options.
• Determine the Strike Price: Decide the price at which you can buy the asset by exercising the option.
• Set the Expiration Date: Establish the date on which the option contract expires.
• Pay the Premium: Pay the price (premium) for the option contract.
• Exercise the Option: If the underlying asset price exceeds the strike price, exercise the option to purchase the asset.
• Sell the Option: If you prefer not to exercise the option, you can sell it to another investor in the market.

What is a Long and Short Call Option?

In options trading, the terms “long and short call option” refer to the positions taken by traders or investors.

• Long Call Option: When a trader holds a long position, it means they have bought a call option contract. A long call option gives the trader the right, but not the obligation, to buy the asset at a strike price. The trader can profit if the asset’s price increases significantly before the expiration date. They can then buy the asset at the lower strike price and sell at the higher market price.
• Short Call Option: A short position involves selling a call option contract that the trader does not own. When a trader holds a short position, they are obligated to sell the asset at the strike price. The obligation applies if the buyer exercises the option. The trader profits if the asset’s price stays below the strike price. The option will likely expire worthless, and the trader keeps the premium received from selling it.

Popular Call Options in India

In India, some of the commonly traded call options include:

• NIFTY call options are highly popular among investors in India. The NIFTY index comprises 50 stocks listed on the National Stock Exchange (NSE).
• Finnifty call options are also widely traded. It consists of 12 banking stocks listed on the NSE.
• While not as popular as NIFTY call options, Sensex call options are still actively traded by a significant number of investors. The Sensex index includes 30 stocks listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE).
• Investors in India also trade call options on individual shares. These options allow investors to speculate on the future price movements of specific stocks.
• Another popular type of financial contract is traded on the National Stock Exchange (NSE) in India. It enables investors to engage in price speculation or risk management strategies related to the securities listed on the NSE.

Difference Between Call Option And Put Option

Before we dive into the difference between call option and put option, let’s us take a brief look at call option, and understand put option in detail.

What Are Call and Put Options?

Call and put options are contracts that give the buyer the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell an underlying asset at a specified price within a specific time frame. The terms and conditions of these options vary, and it is essential to understand each type to make an informed decision.

• Call Option: Call option means you have the right to buy an asset, such as stocks, at a predetermined price, known as the strike price, before the option expires.
• Put Option: A put option, on the other hand, gives you the right to sell the asset at a specific strike price within the expiration date. If you anticipate the stock price to fall, buying a put option may help you benefit from the price drop.

Key Differences Between Call Option and Put Option

Here are the main differences between call and put options that may help you understand how they function:

Aspect	Call Option	Put Option
Right Granted	Right to buy the underlying asset.	Right to sell the underlying asset.
Market Expectation	Used when you expect the price to rise.	Used when you expect the price to fall.
Risk for Buyer	Loss limited to the premium paid.	Loss limited to the premium paid.
Profit Potential	Unlimited if the stock price rises significantly.	Profit grows as the stock price falls.
Obligation for Seller	Seller is obligated to sell if the buyer exercises the option.	Seller is obligated to buy if the buyer exercises the option.

Example of Call Option

Let’s consider an example of a call option to better understand how it works. Suppose you buy a call option on a stock with a strike price of ₹100 per share. The option costs ₹10 per share as a premium. Now, imagine if the stock price rises to ₹120 before the option expires. Here, you can exercise your right to buy the stock at ₹100 and sell it at ₹120. It makes you a profit of ₹10 per share (₹20 gain minus ₹10 premium).

Example of Put Option

Now, let’s take an example of a put option. Assume you purchase a put option for a stock with a strike price of ₹150 per share. The premium paid is ₹5 per share. If the stock price falls to ₹130, you can exercise your right to sell the stock at ₹150. It may earn you a profit of ₹15 per share (₹20 gain minus ₹5 premium).

When to Use Call and Put Options?

• Call Options: You might consider buying a call option when you expect the price of the stock to increase. For example, if you are optimistic about the Nifty 50 stocks, you may look into Nifty call options.
• Put Options: You may find put options beneficial when you predict a decline in stock prices. For instance, in bearish market conditions, put options can act as a hedge against potential losses.

Common Terms Related to Call and Put Options

• Call Price: This is the price at which you can buy the underlying asset using the call option.
• Naked Call Option: A strategy where the seller of the call option does not own the underlying asset, which may involve higher risk.
• Callable Option Meaning: Refers to an option that can be redeemed by the issuer before its maturity.
• Call Short: This term indicates selling a call option without owning the underlying asset, which is usually a risky move due to unlimited loss potential.

Benefits of Using Call Option

Some of the advantages of using call options are as follows: 

• Amplified Investment Opportunities: These options provide a leveraged approach, enabling control over a larger asset quantity with a smaller investment. Paying the premium instead of the full price can magnify your profits if the asset price rises. However, it’s crucial to recognise that call options also amplify losses if the asset price decreases.
• Hedging and Risk Management: They can serve as a hedge against potential losses in the underlying asset. If you own a stock that concerns you, buying a call option on it may help mitigate potential losses. If the stock price declines, you may lose money on the stock but gain from the option, offsetting your losses.
• Speculation and Income Generation: They offer opportunities for speculation and income generation. If you anticipate an increase in the underlying asset price, buying a call option allows you to profit from the price appreciation. Additionally, you can sell them to generate income. If the asset price remains unchanged, you retain the premium received from selling the option.

Factors Influencing Call Option Pricing

Here are a few factors that influence call option pricing are as follows:

• Underlying Asset Price: The price of the underlying asset has a significant influence on call option pricing. A higher asset price increases the option’s value, allowing the buyer to profit by exercising it. The buyer can then sell the asset at a higher market price, benefiting from the price difference.
• Time to Expiration: The duration until the option’s expiration date affects its pricing. The longer the time to expiration, the more valuable the call option becomes. With more time, there is an increased likelihood of the underlying asset price rising, offering potential profits to the buyer upon exercising the option.
• Volatility and Market Conditions: Volatility measures expected fluctuations in the asset price. Higher volatility enhances call option value as it increases the chance of a price rise. This enables the buyer to capitalize on the option. Market conditions also impact pricing. Bullish markets favor higher option values, while bearish markets result in lower values.

Risks and Considerations of Using Call Option

Consider these factors and risks when using call options:

• Market Volatility and Stock Price: These options derive their value from the underlying stock. If the stock price decreases, the value of the call option may also decrease. Additionally, they have an expiration date, and if the stock price fails to reach the strike price by that date, the option may expire worthless.
• Thorough Analysis and Strategic Approach: Conducting proper research and analysis is crucial before buying these options. Understand the risks involved and develop a clear strategy for how you will handle the option. Will you sell it if the stock price rises, or will you exercise the option and acquire the stock?
• Influence of Market Fluctuations: Market conditions play a significant role in the value of these options. Volatile markets can result in substantial fluctuations in option value. Even if the stock price rises, you could still experience losses on the call option due to market volatility.

When to Buy Call Option?

Knowing when to buy call option can be a bit tricky, but here are a few scenarios to consider:

• Bullish Vibes: If you’re feeling optimistic about a stock and believe its price will go up, buying a call option could be a smart move. It gives you the right to purchase the stock at a predetermined price (the strike price) within a specific timeframe.
• Exciting Events Ahead: Keep an eye on upcoming events or catalysts that could potentially boost a stock’s value. If you expect positive news like earnings releases or product launches, buying a call option before the event can give you a chance to profit from the anticipated price increase.
• Limited Risk, Big Rewards: Buying a call option offers a trade-off between risk and reward. Your potential losses are capped at the premium paid for the option, while your potential profits are unlimited if the stock price skyrockets.
• Short-Term Speculation: These options are popular for short-term trading or making quick bets on price movements. If you expect a stock to rise soon, buying with an appropriate expiration date could be a strategy.

When Should You Sell Call Option?

Selling a call option can be driven by several motivations:

• Anticipating a Decline in Stock Price: A common reason to sell a call option is when you believe that the stock price will decrease. By selling the option, you can collect the premium. If the stock price indeed falls, you keep the premium, limiting your downside risk to the amount received.
• Generating Income: Selling these options can serve as an income generation strategy. When you sell a call option, you receive the premium upfront, regardless of whether the stock price rises. This approach allows you to generate income while maintaining a bullish outlook on the stock without committing substantial capital.
• Limiting Losses: If you own a stock and have concerns about potential price declines, selling the option can help mitigate losses. By doing so, you retain the premium received, providing a partial offset to any losses incurred from the stock’s decline.

Strategies for Successful Call Option Trading

Buying Call Options

This strategy involves buying a call option when you expect the price of the underlying asset to rise. To implement this strategy effectively, it is crucial to conduct thorough analysis and research to identify assets with strong growth potential. 

Additionally, you should choose these options with an appropriate expiration date and strike price that align with your price target and investment horizon. By carefully selecting the right options, you can potentially profit from the anticipated increase in the underlying asset’s price.

Writing Covered Call Options

This strategy involves selling call options on underlying assets that you already own. The primary objective of writing covered calls is to generate income through the premium received from selling the options. 

When using this strategy, select a strike price that allows for potential upside in the asset’s price. Consider your willingness to sell the asset at the chosen strike price before implementing the strategy. By writing covered calls, you can earn premium income and potentially enhance the overall return on your investment portfolio.

Spread Strategies and Combining Options

Spread strategies and combining options are also popular approaches in call option trading. A common strategy is the bull call spread. It involves buying a call option with a lower strike price and simultaneously selling it with a higher strike price. 

This strategy aims to limit the initial investment cost. It still participates in the potential upside of the underlying asset’s price. By combining options in this way, you can create a spread position that may offer a favourable risk-reward profile.

To Wrap It Up…

Call options are powerful financial instruments that can enhance your investment strategy and open doors to new opportunities in the market. 

They provide leverage, enabling you to control a larger position with a smaller investment. They offer flexibility in managing risk and protecting against downside movements. Moreover, they allow you to participate in bullish market trends and generate income through the premium collection.

Therefore, by understanding how call options work and employing the right strategies, you can navigate market fluctuations more effectively, capitalise on price movements, and tailor your approach to match your investment goals and risk tolerance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Call Option