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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.

Aug 30, 2013

Option Block 272: Presidential Rope-A-Dope, or Bags of Money

Trading Block:  Labor Day weekend is nearly upon us. VIX cash above the 16-handle. Jobless claims are down, as expected.   HFT and algos appear to have had a negligible impact on the vol of major futures contracts.

Odd Block:  Puts trade in Garmin ltd. (GRMN)...


Aug 27, 2013

Option Block 271: Sabre Rattling Rattles Markets

Trading Block: A mild rally on the street until Kerry started sabre rattling in Washington, sending the markets down. NASDAQ, Goldman and others still facing heat over their tech meltdowns last week. BATS and Direct Edge merging. TABB Group predicts options...


Aug 23, 2013

Option Block 270: Looking Behind the Curtain

Trading Block: NASDAQ halts trading today over tech glitch. Many big names were impacted. Goldman Sachs screws up JPM options trading. Question from T_Pal: Should I be concerned about the wave of technology problems impacting the market? Can they impact my trading?...


Aug 20, 2013

Option Block 269: Listener Questions a Go-Go

Trading Block: Another down day on the markets. The 3-year and 10-year are bumping up against levels we haven't seen in a while.

Mail Block: Your questions, our answers

  • Question from Lee Patterson - I've been an Option Block listener for a few months and you've...


Aug 16, 2013

Option Block 268: Commodity Sea of Green

Trading Block: A broad selloff across the board today.  Inflation fears spook the Fed and the market.  Cisco off 7%, looking at layoffs. Walmart off 3%.  A sea of green in the commodities. Record day in the VIX - only 133 contracts short of 1 million.

Odd Block: Review...