A dark side to options trading? Evidence from corporate defa (2024)

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Abstract

Does options trading increase or decrease corporate default risk? We answer this question by examining how options trading affects the expected default frequency. The results reveal a positive correlation between equity options trading and future corporate default risk. A single-standard-deviation increase in options trading volume is associated with an increase of over 3% in the expected default probability. Using actual defaults as well as the CDS spread as an alternative proxy for default risk yields consistent results. To corroborate this evidence, we use several econometric specifications, including instrumental variables and the Penny Pilot Program of the Chicago Board Options Exchange as an exogenous shock for the quasi-natural experiment. Moreover, the positive effect of options trading on default risk is more pronounced when firms are more financially distressed and when the CEO holds a smaller stake of inside debt. Further evidence suggests that options trading induces excessive corporate risk-taking activities that destroy firm value and increases CEO compensation convexity. Overall, the results are consistent with an active options market increasing firm default risk by inducing excessive shifting of risk.

Suggested Citation

  • Haoyi Yang & Shikong Luo, 2023."A dark side to options trading? Evidence from corporate default risk,"Review of Quantitative Finance and Accounting, Springer, vol. 60(2), pages 531-564, February.
  • Handle: RePEc:kap:rqfnac:v:60:y:2023:i:2:d:10.1007_s11156-022-01110-7
    DOI: 10.1007/s11156-022-01110-7

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Options trading; Default risk; Penny Pilot Program;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • G33 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - Bankruptcy; Liquidation
    • G1 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets

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    A dark side to options trading? Evidence from corporate defa (2024)

    FAQs

    A dark side to options trading? Evidence from corporate defa? ›

    The results reveal a positive correlation between equity options trading and future corporate default risk. A single-standard-deviation increase in options trading volume is associated with an increase of over 3% in the expected default probability.

    What is the riskiest option strategy? ›

    What Is the Riskiest Option Strategy? Selling call options on a stock that is not owned is the riskiest option strategy. This is also known as writing a naked call and selling an uncovered call.

    Why am I losing money in options trading? ›

    As options approach their expiration date, they lose value due to time decay (theta). The closer an option is to expiration, the faster its time value erodes. If the underlying asset's price doesn't move in the desired direction quickly enough, options buyers can suffer losses as the time value diminishes.

    Does option trading is gambling? ›

    Unlike gambling, options trading provides the opportunity for profit through strategic decision-making and analysis of the underlying asset. While there is an element of risk involved, options trading is not solely based on chance, but rather on probability and analysis.

    What is the maximum loss in option trading? ›

    The maximum loss of the call option buyer is the maximum profit of the call option seller. Likewise, the call option buyer has unlimited profit potential, mirroring this the call option seller has maximum loss potential. We have placed the payoff of Call Option (buy) and Put Option (sell) next to each other.

    Does Warren Buffett invest in options? ›

    Selling (Writing) Options: Buffett's preferred options strategy revolves around writing (selling) options rather than buying them. By selling options, he collects premiums upfront, which can generate income even if the options expire worthless.

    What is the most consistently profitable option strategy? ›

    The most successful options strategy for consistent income generation is the covered call strategy. An investor sells call options against shares of a stock already owned in their portfolio with covered calls. This allows them to collect premium income while holding the underlying investment.

    Why do 90% option traders lose money? ›

    However, it has been recently discovered that the majority of option traders lose money in the market. In my opinion, this is due to the neglect of some crucial aspects of options trading. Know Your Enemy in Options Trading becomes very essential. The majority of errors and losses arise out of that.

    Why do most people fail at options trading? ›

    Why Do Most People Fail At Options Trading? Most people fail at options trading because they have not taken the time to learn how options work and how volatility affects options pricing.

    How do you never lose in option trading? ›

    The option sellers stand a greater risk of losses when there is heavy movement in the market. So, if you have sold options, then always try to hedge your position to avoid such losses. For example, if you have sold at the money calls/puts, then try to buy far out of the money calls/puts to hedge your position.

    Who should not trade options? ›

    Who might not want to consider trading options? Buy and hold investors. Individual investors whose investing plan involves buying stocks, bonds, and other investments with a multiyear time horizon may not typically consider trading options (although there can be circ*mstances where it may be appropriate).

    Is Option Trading a skill or luck? ›

    But, unlike teen patti, options trading is not just based on luck. With the right knowledge and understanding of the market, you can make informed decisions that can lead to big profits.

    Does anyone actually make money trading options? ›

    Options traders can profit by being option buyers or option writers. Options allow for potential profit during volatile times, regardless of which direction the market is moving. This is possible because options can be traded in anticipation of market appreciation or depreciation.

    What is the most complicated option strategy? ›

    There are a number of volatile options trading strategies that options traders can use, and the reverse iron albatross spread is one of the most complicated. It's structured in a way that it can profit from a substantial movement in the price of an underlying security, regardless of which direction that movement is in.

    What is the best option worst option? ›

    Best of option pays the maximum price of all the assets whereas worst of option pays the minimum price within the basket. An investor, for instance, can choose three assets reflecting growth, moderate, and conservative investment styles. In a upside market, the growth asset gives the best return.

    Which option strategy has the highest success rate? ›

    1. Bull Call Spread. A bull call spread strategy is driven by a bullish outlook. It involves purchasing a call option with a lower strike price while concurrently selling one with a higher strike price, positioning you to profit from an anticipated gradual increase in the stock's value.

    What is the riskiest investment option? ›

    The riskiest investments are often speculative in nature. While there are investment opportunities in each asset class that could result in you losing some or all of your money, cryptocurrency is often considered to be among the riskiest types of investments.

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