A Risk Reversal is a neutral to slightly bullish strategy. It is used when an investor expects the underlying asset's price to remain stable or increase slightly.
Components: The strategy involves two main components:
Short Put Option: The investor sells (writes) a put option with a specific strike price. This option gives the investor an obligation to buy the underlying asset at the strike price if the option is exercised by the option buyer.
Long Call Option: Simultaneously, the investor buys a call option with a higher strike price. This call option provides upside potential and limits potential losses.
Profit and Loss Potential:
Maximum Profit: The maximum profit is theoretically unlimited if the underlying asset's price increases significantly.
Maximum Loss: The maximum loss is limited to the difference between the strike prices of the put and call options, minus the net premium received from selling the put.
Break-Even Point:The break-even point on the upside is the strike price of the long call plus the net premium received from selling the put. The break-even point on the downside is the strike price of the short put minus the net premium received.
Strategy Goals:
The primary goal of a Risk Reversal is to provide downside protection while allowing for some upside potential.
The strategy aims to generate income through the sale of the put option.
Risk Management:
The risk is limited to the difference between the strike prices of the put and call options, minus the net premium received from selling the put.
The strategy offers controlled risk, particularly on the downside.