Debit spread

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In finance, a debit spread, AKA net debit spread, results when an investor simultaneously buys an option with a higher premium and sells an option with a lower premium. The investor is said to be a net buyer and expects the premiums of the two options (the spread) to widen.

Contents

[edit] Bullish & Bearish Debit Spreads

Investors want debit spreads to widen for profit.

A bullish debit spread can be constructed using calls. See bull call spread.

A bearish debit spread can be constructed using puts. See bear put spread.

[edit] Breakeven

  • Breakeven for call spreads = lower strike + net premium
  • Breakeven for put spreads = higher strike + net premium

[edit] Maximum Potential

The maximum gain and loss potential are the same for call and put debit spreads. Note that net debit = difference in premiums.

[edit] Maximum Gain

Maximum gain = difference in strike prices - net debit, realized when both options are in-the-money.

[edit] Maximum Loss

Maximum loss = net debit, realized when both options expire worthless.

[edit] See also

[edit] References

  • McMillan, Lawrence G. (2002). Options as a Strategic Investment, 4th ed., New York : New York Institute of Finance. ISBN 0-7352-0197-8. 



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