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The Option Block

The Option Block All-Star Panel breaks down the latest developments in the options market, analyzes unusual options activity, explains cutting-edge options strategies, answers listener questions and much more. Whether you're an active options trader or just getting started in the options market, The Option Block will keep you informed and entertained.

Nov 29, 2011

Option Block 109: Danger is in the Air

Trading Block: A strong move to the upside after the holiday weekend. VIX at 30 yet again – is this becoming the new norm? Strong Black Friday sales compelling market. Metals/commodity rundown.

Odd Block: Unusual activity in MGIC Investment Corp. (MTG); BlackRock, Inc. (BLK),...


Nov 22, 2011

Option Block 108: Super Committee VIX Spreads

Trading Block: Dow back in the red for the year. Debt cutting debate concerns hit the market -- reminiscent of the debt debate from August, only you don't see everyone loading up on VIX puts this time. Did they learn their lesson? Could more DC gridlock trigger another debt...


Nov 18, 2011


Option Block 107: The End of the AAPL Bulls?

Trading Block: Housing starts better than expected, yet the market shrugged off an usually strong indicator for movement. S&P breaks through 1225 -- a key support level. Apple down in the 375 level. Ford getting crushed -- down $0.40 despite strong October sales. Is the Dec...


Nov 15, 2011

  • TRADING BLOCK: Italian borrowing costs spooked the market.  May we actually see some countries abandon the Euro? Groupon options finally went live, not surprisingly, with 100+ vols in the downside skew, puts were bid! A lot of selling in the 1 and 500 lot July 15's, the highest activity strike next to the Dec 20...


Nov 11, 2011


Option Block 105: A Pod of Sissy girls

Trading Block: How to use SPX movement in the downside skew to gauge the sentiment of a particular rally. An uncharacteristic sell-off in Apple -- will they finally lose their grip on the 400 handle? Green Mountain Coffee closed at nearly $41 today, down a whopping 40%.

Odd...