A Closer Look at Microsoft's Options Market Dynamics
Nov 7, 2024
What the Options Market Reveals About Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL)
Recent analysis shows that wealthy investors are taking a bearish stance on Apple (AAPL), a trend that should not go unnoticed by market participants. This conclusion comes from Benzinga's tracking of public options records, which revealed important movements in today's market.
The specific identities of these investors remain undisclosed, but significant trading activity often signals that notable changes or events are on the horizon for AAPL.
Our observations indicated that Benzinga's options scanner picked up 27 remarkable options activities involving Apple. This is a considerable surge in trading activity.
Market Sentiment Overview
The prevailing sentiment among these prominent investors appears mixed; about 37% are optimistic (bullish) while a larger 48% are pessimistic (bearish). Notably, there were 8 put options, adding up to $387,928, compared to 19 call options totaling $1,239,539.
Projected Price Targets
When we analyze trading volumes alongside Open Interest, it becomes clear that key market players are eyeing a price range between $100.00 and $240.00 for Apple, based on data from the past three months.
Volume and Open Interest Trends
Volume and open interest provide vital insights when trading options. These metrics reveal liquidity and trading interest at various strike prices for Apple's options. A closer look shows volume and open interest trends for Apple's large trades within a strike price bracket of $100.00 to $240.00 over the last 30 days.
Significant Options Trades Detected
| Symbol | PUT/CALL | Trade Type | Sentiment | Expiration Date | Ask Price | Bid Price | Trade Price | Strike Price | Total Trade Price | Open Interest | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AAPL | CALL | SWEEP | BULLISH | 01/17/25 | $7.45 | $7.35 | $7.45 | $230.00 | $312.0K | 30.6K | 487 |
| AAPL | CALL | TRADE | BULLISH | 03/21/25 | $130.0 | $129.6 | $130.0 | $100.00 | $117.0K | 489 | 24 |
| AAPL | CALL | SWEEP | BEARISH | 11/08/24 | $3.5 | $3.35 | $3.35 | $225.00 | $100.5K | 12.0K | 948 |
| AAPL | PUT | SWEEP | NEUTRAL | 12/06/24 | $5.15 | $5.05 | $5.1 | $230.00 | $91.7K | 972 | 189 |
| AAPL | CALL | SWEEP | BEARISH | 11/15/24 | $2.09 | $2.08 | $2.08 | $227.50 | $83.3K | 7.5K | 8.1K |
About Apple
Apple is one of the largest companies globally, offering a wide range of hardware and software products for both consumers and businesses. The iPhone accounts for a substantial portion of Apple's sales, while products like Mac, iPad, and Watch complement the iPhone within a larger software ecosystem. The company has steadily expanded into new areas, including streaming services, subscription packages, and augmented reality. Apple designs its own software and chips but partners with firms like Foxconn and TSMC for manufacturing. Less than half of Apple's revenue comes directly through its own retail stores, with most sales generated through various partnerships and distribution channels.
Current Position of Apple
- The current price of AAPL stands at $227.07, experiencing a slight decline of -0.18% with a trading volume of 14,296,721 shares.
- Current Relative Strength Index (RSI) values suggest that the stock may be approaching overbought conditions.
- Apple's next earnings report is expected in 83 days.
Professional Analyst Ratings for Apple
In the past month, five industry analysts have shared their perspectives on AAPL, leading to an average price target of $224.2. Specific analysts have provided mixed ratings: An analyst from Barclays has maintained an Underweight rating with a price target of $184, while Keybanc has also downgraded to Underweight with a target of $200. Conversely, a Rosenblatt analyst continues to rate Apple as a Buy with a price target of $262, while another from Maxim Group holds a Hold rating at a target of $215. Notably, an analyst from Needham has revised their stance to a Buy with a price target of $260.
As options trading involves both higher risks and potential rewards, savvy traders manage these risks by continually learning, adjusting their strategies, and closely monitoring market trends. Staying updated on the latest options trades involving Apple can provide valuable insights.
Market news and data are crucial in understanding these dynamics.
options, Apple, investors