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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.

Apr 29, 2016

Xpress Block: We have special guest co-host: Barry Metzger, CEO of optionsXpress. He discusses:

  • The latest developments at OX.
  • Interesting platform upgrades and tech overhauls
  • What are the OX clients trading during the height of earnings season?
  • Any interesting customer questions/feedback?

Trading Block: Options Traders Brace for Amazon Earnings. Amazon at $612.60. ATM straddle $49, approx. 8%. LinkedIn Corporation - $123. ATM straddle $16.20, approx. 13%. Earnings before the bell: CME, Coca-Cola, Ford Motor Company, Honda Motor Company, MasterCard Incorporated, MSCI Inc, Time Warner Cable, United Parcel Service, Viacom Inc. It was a rough week for Apple - $96.20 today. Stock crushed post-earnings, opened down $8.35 or 8%. Icahn bails out on Apple stock. Nasdaq mulls new exchange to ease trading in illiquid ETFs.

Odd Block: Calls trade in Methanex Corp (MEOH), calls and stock trade in Ebay Inc. (EBAY), and calls trade in KKR and Co. (KKR).

Mail Block: Listener questions and comments

  • Question from Mohammed - Hi Mark! The Options Insider website is superb resource for new and experienced options traders. I know your weekly newsletter you folks you report significant/unusual done options trading activity across stock and ETFs. After searching on your site and overall online, I have found it quite difficult to locate a website which details some of the terminology used when describing the large blocks traded (e.g. "price variation"). If you could compile a glossary or an overview of how to view/assess options order flow that would be excellent. Keep up the great work! Thanks.
  • Question from Maha - How difficult is it to become a successful options day trader?

Around the Block: A review of after-hours prices for LNKD, AMZN. Earnings parade continues with CBOE and XOM. Will the Icahn dump of AAPL have a longer-term impact. Central bank flim flammery.