Differences between Upbit options and contracts

1. Understanding the Basics of Upbit Options and Contracts

Upbit is a renowned cryptocurrency exchange that offers various financial instruments, including options and contracts. Both options and contracts are derivative instruments that allow traders to speculate on the future price movements of cryptocurrencies. However, there are subtle distinctions between these two instruments that traders should be aware of.

2. Key Differences in Functionality

• Options: Options provide the buyer with the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell an underlying cryptocurrency at a predetermined price (strike price) on or before a specific date (expiration date). The buyer only needs to pay the option's premium to acquire this right.
• Contracts: Contracts, often referred to as futures contracts, represent an agreement between two parties to buy or sell an underlying cryptocurrency at a predetermined price on a specific future date. Unlike options, contracts are legally binding obligations, meaning both parties must fulfill the terms of the contract on the settlement date.

3. Risk and Reward Potential

• Options: The buyer's risk in an option is limited to the price of the premium paid. If the underlying cryptocurrency's price moves favorably, the buyer can exercise the option and potentially profit; if not, they simply lose the premium paid. The seller's risk depends on whether they sell a call option (selling the right to buy) or a put option (selling the right to sell). They may be obligated to sell or buy at the strike price even if the market moves against them.
• Contracts: The risk in contracts is more significant as both parties are obligated to fulfill the contract. If the market price diverges from the contract price, one party may face substantial losses, while the other benefits from the price difference.

4. Settlement and Execution

• Options: Options are typically settled in cash. If the option is exercised, the buyer settles the transaction at the strike price and receives the difference in cash. Non-exercised options expire worthless.
• Contracts: Contracts are settled physically, meaning the underlying cryptocurrency is actually bought or sold at the predetermined price on the settlement date.

5. Role in Trading Strategies

• Options: Options offer versatility in trading strategies. They can be used for hedging, income generation (selling options), or speculation. Traders can tailor their option strategies based on their market outlook and risk appetite.
• Contracts: Contracts are primarily utilized by traders seeking to hedge their exposure to market fluctuations or to speculate on future price movements. They provide a more direct way to gain exposure to the price of an underlying cryptocurrency.

6. Suitability for Different Traders

• Options: Options can be suitable for traders of all experience levels, as they offer a range of risk-reward profiles. They provide flexibility in strategy design and can be customized according to the trader's goals.
• Contracts: Contracts are generally more suited to experienced traders who have a clear understanding of market dynamics and are prepared to accept the potentially higher risks involved.

7. Practical Considerations

• Trading Size: Upbit requires a minimum trading size of 1 option contract or 10 contract units for contracts.
• Expiration Dates: Options on Upbit have varying expiration dates, typically ranging from one week to one year. Contract expiration dates are standardized and typically fall on specific quarterly dates.
• Fees: Both options and contracts involve trading fees, which may vary depending on the specific cryptocurrency being traded.