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L.2 · INTERMEDIATE · 3 MIN

Intrinsic Value vs. Time Value

An option’s price has two components: intrinsic value (what it’s worth if exercised right now) and time value (what you pay for the possibility it becomes more valuable). Understanding this split is key to smart options trading.

Quiz · 5 questions ↓
§ 01
AAPL — Current Price. Open AAPL on the Ledge to see current values.
§ 02
Option Price = Intrinsic Value + Time Value
§ 03
FactorEffect on Time Value
More time to expirationHigher time value (more time for favorable moves)
Higher implied volatilityHigher time value (bigger expected moves)
ATM optionsMaximum time value (most uncertainty about outcome)
Deep ITM or OTMLess time value (outcome more certain)
§ 04

Time value decays to zero at expiration. If you buy options, you’re fighting time decay every day. The stock must move enough to overcome both the intrinsic value gap AND the time decay.

§ 05
Look at an options chain and compare the time value of options with different expirations (same strike). How much extra do you pay for an additional month of time?
§ 06
A $100 call is priced at $12 when the stock is at $105. If the stock stays at $105 until expiration, what’s the option worth?
§ 07

When you buy an option, you’re buying time. Make sure the stock has a catalyst or reason to move within that timeframe. Buying time without a thesis is just paying to lose money slowly.

§ 08
You bought an AAPL $200 call for $5 when AAPL was at $198 and 45 days remained to expiry. Two weeks later, AAPL is at $215 and the option trades at $15.50. Break down the option's value components.
Five questions · AI feedback

Sit with the ideas.

A $100 strike call trades at $12 when the stock is at $108. What is the intrinsic value and time value?

Why:
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