Options Academy
Bull Spreads 103: Degrees of Aggressiveness
Not all spreads are created equal. From "Lottery Ticket Lite" to "Stock Replacement", we categorize spreads by their aggression level.
Tailoring the Trade
In Chapter 7, the book categorizes bull spreads into three types based on where the strike prices are relative to the stock price. Choosing the right one is about matching your conviction level.
1. The Aggressive Spread (OTM/OTM)
Structure: Buy OTM Call / Sell Further OTM Call.
Example: Stock $32. Buy $35 Call / Sell $40 Call.
Pros: Extremely cheap. Huge percentage returns (e.g., 500%).
Cons: Low probability. The stock MUST move significantly just to reach your breakeven. Most expire worthless.
Verdict: Use only for high-conviction speculative plays.
2. The Moderate Spread (ATM/OTM)
Structure: Buy ATM Call / Sell OTM Call.
Example: Stock $32. Buy $30 Call / Sell $35 Call.
Pros: Balanced risk/reward. You profit if the stock rises moderately.
Cons: More expensive than the aggressive spread.
Verdict: The standard, bread-and-butter play for most traders.
3. The Conservative Spread (ITM/ITM)
Structure: Buy ITM Call / Sell Higher ITM Call.
Example: Stock $38. Buy $30 Call / Sell $35 Call.
Pros: High probability. The stock can actually DROP slightly, and you still make max profit (because both legs are already ITM).
Cons: Expensive debit. Lower percentage return.
Verdict: A substitute for owning the stock (see Post 105).
Ranking Spreads
Don't just look at "Max Profit". Look at "Distance to Break-even".
The book offers a practical Rule of Thumb for ranking: Assume the stock could advance by an amount equal to twice the time value premium of an at-the-money call.
If a spread requires the stock to move more than that to be profitable, it is likely too aggressive.
Key takeaways
- Aggressive (OTM) spreads are cheap but have low win rates.
- Moderate (ATM) spreads balance cost and probability.
- Conservative (ITM) spreads can profit even if the stock stays flat or drops slightly.
- Use the "2x Time Value" rule to gauge if a target price is realistic.
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