Options Talk - Episode 19 - exploring ratio put spreads

Options Talk - Episode 19 - exploring ratio put spreads

Options 10 minutes to read
Koen Hoorelbeke

Investment and Options Strategist

Summary:  In Episode 19 of 'Saxo Options Talk,' Koen Hoorelbeke and Peter Siks explore the strategic nuances of ratio put spreads. This episode is essential for traders looking to understand and implement this advanced options strategy to manage risk and optimize returns.


Options are complex, high-risk products and require knowledge, investment experience and, in many applications, high risk acceptance. We recommend that before you invest in options, you inform yourself well about the operation and risks.

Introducing episode 19 - exploring ratio put spreads

"Episode 19 - exploring ratio put spreads" offers a detailed examination of ratio put spreads, a sophisticated strategy for options traders. Koen and Peter provide insights into the benefits, risks, and practical applications of this technique, helping traders enhance their options trading strategies.

Understanding ratio put spreads

  • Normal put spread: Involves buying a put and selling another put at a lower strike price.
  • Ratio put spread: Involves buying one put and selling two puts at a lower strike price.
  • Example: With a stock at $100, buy a 95 put and sell two 90 puts.

Benefits and risks

  • Potential for credit: Ratio put spreads can be set up for a small credit or at even money.
  • Protection: Offers downside protection with a cushion, making it profitable if the stock declines moderately.
  • Maximum profit scenario: Achieved if the stock price is at the short put strike price at expiration.
  • Break-even point: Calculated based on the credit received and the strike prices involved.
  • Risks: If the stock drops significantly, the position can become loss-making, similar to a naked put.

Example analysis

  • ASML example:
    • Stock trading at €880.
    • Normal put spread: Sell August 800 put, break-even at €825.
    • Ratio put spread: Buy 820 put, sell two 800 puts, break-even at €765.

Strategies and adjustments

  • Market monitoring: Requires active monitoring, especially in declining markets.
  • Adjusting positions: If the market declines, traders can sell the long put and buy lower strikes to limit losses.
  • Comparison to naked puts: Ratio put spreads can be a more strategic alternative to naked puts, offering a profit cushion and lower break-even points.

Why listen to episode 19?

For traders looking to deepen their understanding of advanced options strategies, Episode 19 of 'Saxo Options Talk' is a must-listen. Packed with practical advice and expert insights, this episode will help you navigate the complexities of ratio put spreads, enhancing your trading repertoire.

Subscribe and stay ahead

Ensure you don't miss this insightful episode by subscribing to 'Saxo Options Talk' on Podbean, or on Spotify. Keep yourself updated with the latest strategies and discussions in options trading.

Join the discussion

After tuning in, join me on my Threads profile to share your thoughts and insights on the episode. It's an excellent platform for engaging with fellow traders and enhancing our collective understanding of options strategies.

Your questions, our answers

We're eager to hear from you! Send your options-related questions to optionquestions@saxobank.com. Selected questions will be addressed in future episodes, providing customized advice and insights.

Conclusion:

"Episode 19 - exploring ratio put spreads" equips traders with the knowledge to effectively implement these advanced strategies. Koen and Peter’s expert guidance sheds light on the complexities of ratio put spreads, offering actionable strategies to enhance your trading performance. Tune in to transform your trading strategies and master the art of ratio put spreads with confidence.

Previous episodes of the "Saxo Options Talk" podcast
Previous "Investing with options" articles
Previous "What are your options" articles
Other related articles
Why options strategies belong in every trader's toolbox
Understanding and calculating the expected move of a stock ETF index 
Understanding Delta - a key guide for Investors and Traders
Trading 0DTEs - get your feet wet - without drowning

Options are complex, high-risk products and require knowledge, investment experience and, in many applications, high risk acceptance. We recommend that before you invest in options, you inform yourself well about the operation and risks. In Saxo Bank's Terms of Use you will find more information on this in the Important Information Options, Futures, Margin and Deficit Procedure. You can also consult the Essential Information Document of the option you want to invest in on Saxo Bank's website. 

Quarterly Outlook

01 /

  • Macro outlook: Trump 2.0: Can the US have its cake and eat it, too?

    Quarterly Outlook

    Macro outlook: Trump 2.0: Can the US have its cake and eat it, too?

    John J. Hardy

    Global Head of Macro Strategy

  • Equity Outlook: The ride just got rougher

    Quarterly Outlook

    Equity Outlook: The ride just got rougher

    Charu Chanana

    Chief Investment Strategist

  • China Outlook: The choice between retaliation or de-escalation

    Quarterly Outlook

    China Outlook: The choice between retaliation or de-escalation

    Charu Chanana

    Chief Investment Strategist

  • Commodity Outlook: A bumpy road ahead calls for diversification

    Quarterly Outlook

    Commodity Outlook: A bumpy road ahead calls for diversification

    Ole Hansen

    Head of Commodity Strategy

  • FX outlook: Tariffs drive USD strength, until...?

    Quarterly Outlook

    FX outlook: Tariffs drive USD strength, until...?

    John J. Hardy

    Global Head of Macro Strategy

  • Fixed Income Outlook: Bonds Hit Reset. A New Equilibrium Emerges

    Quarterly Outlook

    Fixed Income Outlook: Bonds Hit Reset. A New Equilibrium Emerges

    Althea Spinozzi

    Head of Fixed Income Strategy

  • Equity Outlook: Will lower rates lift all boats in equities?

    Quarterly Outlook

    Equity Outlook: Will lower rates lift all boats in equities?

    Peter Garnry

    Chief Investment Strategist

    After a period of historically high equity index concentration driven by the 'Magnificent Seven' sto...
  • Commodity Outlook: Gold and silver continue to shine bright

    Quarterly Outlook

    Commodity Outlook: Gold and silver continue to shine bright

    Ole Hansen

    Head of Commodity Strategy

  • Macro Outlook: The US rate cut cycle has begun

    Quarterly Outlook

    Macro Outlook: The US rate cut cycle has begun

    Peter Garnry

    Chief Investment Strategist

    The Fed started the US rate cut cycle in Q3 and in this macro outlook we will explore how the rate c...
  • FX Outlook: USD in limbo amid political and policy jitters

    Quarterly Outlook

    FX Outlook: USD in limbo amid political and policy jitters

    Charu Chanana

    Chief Investment Strategist

    As we enter the final quarter of 2024, currency markets are set for heightened turbulence due to US ...

Content disclaimer

None of the information provided on this website constitutes an offer, solicitation, or endorsement to buy or sell any financial instrument, nor is it financial, investment, or trading advice. Saxo Bank A/S and its entities within the Saxo Bank Group provide execution-only services, with all trades and investments based on self-directed decisions. Analysis, research, and educational content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered advice nor a recommendation.

Saxo’s content may reflect the personal views of the author, which are subject to change without notice. Mentions of specific financial products are for illustrative purposes only and may serve to clarify financial literacy topics. Content classified as investment research is marketing material and does not meet legal requirements for independent research.

Before making any investment decisions, you should assess your own financial situation, needs, and objectives, and consider seeking independent professional advice. Saxo does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any information provided and assumes no liability for any errors, omissions, losses, or damages resulting from the use of this information.

Please refer to our full disclaimer and notification on non-independent investment research for more details.
- Notification on Non-Independent Investment Research (https://www.home.saxo/legal/niird/notification)
- Full disclaimer (https://www.home.saxo/en-mena/legal/disclaimer/saxo-disclaimer)


Business Hills Park – Building 4,
4th Floor, office 401, Dubai Hills Estate, P.O. Box 33641, Dubai, UAE

Contact Saxo

Select region

UAE
UAE

All trading and investing comes with risk, including but not limited to the potential to lose your entire invested amount.

Information on our international website (as selected from the globe drop-down) can be accessed worldwide and relates to Saxo Bank A/S as the parent company of the Saxo Bank Group. Any mention of the Saxo Bank Group refers to the overall organisation, including subsidiaries and branches under Saxo Bank A/S. Client agreements are made with the relevant Saxo entity based on your country of residence and are governed by the applicable laws of that entity's jurisdiction.

Apple and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the US and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc. Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google LLC.