An option chain is a listing of available option strike prices and expiration dates for both put and call options for a given security or commodity. An option chain also includes current (or recent) prices paid for both puts and calls at various strike prices. An option chain is a valuable tool for comparing current (or recent) prices for a variety of options on a given security or commodity. An option chain provides an investor with a wide range of information in a compact and readily-accessible form. An option chain may or may not include real-time pricing information, although option chain prices are generally up-dated on a frequent basis. An option chain is only available on securities and indices for which options are traded. |