What are call and put options?

There are 2 basic kinds of options: calls and puts. When you buy either type, you have the ability to exercise the option if it benefits you—but you can also let it expire if it doesn't. You can make money by selling your own options (known as "writing" options).

What are puts and calls?

Puts and calls are the types of options contracts, and both types have a buyer and a seller. So while most financial markets have only two types of participants — buyers and sellers — the options market has four: call buyers, call sellers, put buyers and put sellers.

Should you buy call and put options?

The risk of buying both call and put options is that they expire worthless because the stock doesn't reach the breakeven point. In that case, you lose the amount you paid for the premium. It's also possible to sell call and put options, which means another party would pay you a premium for an options contract.