New Podcast: An Exploration of Basic Options Terminology

Tune in to our latest podcast, Defining Options: An Exploration of Basic Options Terminology, presented by Joe Harwood of the OIC Help Desk. If you haven't listened to our latest podcast series we urge you to give it a listen. The new series gives you a brief overview of OIC and our web site, and then moves on to options basics. Without quickly getting into complicated jargon and abstract concepts, we give you an overview of options place in the financial markets, explain how they can be used in broad terms, and then slowly work into some of the first fundamental lessons. Listen at our web site or via iTunes.

Learn More About Straddles and Strangles

Do the large swings in market prices have you feeling like you just stepped off of a roller coaster? The Options Industry Council has recently added detailed explanations that can help you understand two common option strategies that may benefit from large market moves — either up or down. The long straddle and long strangle may be used when one feels large moves are likely but are uncertain of the direction.

Take a Class: Covered Calls

Covered Calls introduces one of the simplest, yet most widely used, option strategies — the covered call. The class chapters cover the strategies, alternatives, and potential outcomes of entering into this option strategy. At the completion of the chapters and prior to the final quiz, you should understand what a covered call is, the risks, the benefits, and when an investor would choose to enter into this type of position. When you finish the class you will be given a unique invitation to create an account in our new Virtual Trading System! .

Have you tried the OIC Help Desk?

Are you having difficulty understanding a particular options strategy? Want to discuss a potential contract adjustment? Did an options investment not work out the way you planned? Our Investor Services Specialists are here to assist you with these and other questions regarding options. Simply dial 1-888-OPTIONS (1-888-678-4667) and we will do our best to help you.

2008 Live Seminars Announced

The Options Industry Council (OIC) recently announced its new spring schedule of live seminars for investors and financial advisors. OIC is proud to present these updated seminars for 2008 covering both basic and intermediate equity options essentials. These free educational seminars are taught in a classroom-style arrangement by experienced instructors from the various options exchanges. Each seminar runs from 6-9 p.m. and registration is required. Register now!

Interested in our Virtual Trading System?

Starting this month, everyone who completes one of our online classes will be given a unique invitation to create an account in our new Virtual Trading System. Click on over to our Options Basics Class, Covered Calls, Options Pricing, or any of our 9 other online classes.

Chat Live With an Options Professional

Wondering how to use options to hedge your positions or portfolio? Visit web site, where you can now instant message our options professionals. After numerous customer requests, we are offering this additional line of communication to our experienced Options Help Desk. We are available to chat and answer your options questions every trading day. Why not give it a try today?