MSFT Calls Active
Heavy trading in upside call options on Microsoft Corp. (Ticker: MSFT) suggests some traders are positioning for the price of the underlying to continue to push to fresh multi-year highs in 2014. The stock is currently up 1.85% to stand at $41.33 as of 2:10 pm ET. Earlier this month MSFT shares touched $41.66 and the highest level since 2003.
Traders looking for shares in the name to extend gains next week snapped up 20Jun?14 41.5 strike calls, with upwards of 21,000 of those contracts changing hands against open interest of just 320 positions. Time and sales data suggests most of the volume was purchased for an average premium of $0.27 apiece, and establishes an average breakeven price of $41.77. Bullish trading traffic was also concentrated at the Aug 43.0 strike, where more than 20,000 calls traded during the first half of the session. Most of the volume printed within the first hour of the trading day, and it looks like most of the calls were purchased for a premium of $0.69 apiece, on average. Buyers of the 43.0 strike calls stand ready to profit at expiration in the event that Microsoft?s shares rally another 6.0% over the current level to exceed the average breakeven price of $43.69.
————————————————————————————–
Note: The material presented in this commentary is provided for informational purposes only and is based upon information that is considered to be reliable. However, neither Interactive Brokers LLC nor its affiliates warrant its completeness, accuracy or adequacy and it should not be relied upon as such. Neither IB nor its affiliates are responsible for any errors or omissions or for results obtained from the use of this information. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results.
This material is not intended as an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security or other financial instrument. Securities or other financial instruments mentioned in this material are not suitable for all investors. Any opinions expressed herein are given in good faith, are subject to change without notice, and are only correct as of the stated date of their issue. The information contained herein does not constitute advice on the tax consequences of making any particular investment decision. This material does not take into account your particular investment objectives, financial situations or needs and is not intended as a recommendation to you of any particular securities, financial instruments or strategies. Before investing, you should consider whether it is suitable for your particular circumstances and, as necessary, seek professional advice.