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In the past, trading options has gotten a bad rap but with education and a sound trading plan, they can be a VERY profitable way to invest.  Words like “risky” or “dangerous” have been incorrectly attached to options trading and we would like to state the advantages to dispel these statements.

1.  Leverage – An investor can buy a option position to mimic a stock position at a huge cost savings.  For example, in a stock position a purchase of 200 shares at $100 per share would cost $20,000.  A similar option position would be to purchase 2, $20 calls (each call equals 100 shares) which would control the same 200 shares for $4,000.  Then the investor can use the other $16,000 to invest elsewhere.

2.  Lower risk – An investor can protect their position by use of  “puts” and “stop-loss orders”.  Stop losses will automatically put an order in to exit a position at a predetermined price and puts can make money if the stock goes down.

3.  Greater returns – By spending less for a call than for the actual stock, you could make almost the same profit, which translates into a higher percentage return.

4. Profit in any type of market – With the use of puts, options traders can play the downside of the market.  This is definitely a benefit!

Check out John Locke’s new Super Simple Spreads program to take advantage of options trading which is currently at a discount until April 30th.  Don’t miss out!

Do you trade options?  Please comment on the advantages.