HomeFinance & EconomicsInvesting (continued)What is Strangle?
Finance & Economics·2 min·Updated Mar 14, 2026

What is Strangle?

Strangle Options Strategy

Quick Answer

A strangle is an options trading strategy that involves buying a call option and a put option with the same expiration date but different strike prices. This strategy allows investors to profit from significant price movements in either direction without needing to predict the direction of the move.

Overview

A strangle is an investment strategy used in options trading. It involves purchasing a call option and a put option for the same underlying asset, both with the same expiration date but at different strike prices. This approach is beneficial for investors who expect a large price movement but are uncertain about the direction of that movement. When an investor implements a strangle, they pay premiums for both options. If the price of the underlying asset moves significantly in either direction, one of the options will become profitable, potentially offsetting the cost of the premiums paid. For example, if an investor buys a strangle on a stock currently priced at $50, they might purchase a call option with a strike price of $55 and a put option with a strike price of $45. Strangles matter in the world of investing because they offer a way to capitalize on volatility without needing to predict market movements accurately. This strategy can be particularly useful around major events like earnings reports or economic announcements, where price swings are more likely. By using a strangle, investors can manage risk while still having the opportunity to profit from significant market changes.


Frequently Asked Questions

The main advantage of a strangle is its potential for profit from large price movements in either direction. It allows investors to hedge against uncertainty without committing to a specific market direction.
The primary risk of a strangle is that if the underlying asset does not move significantly in either direction, both options may expire worthless. This would result in a loss equal to the total premiums paid for the options.
A strangle may be a good strategy if you anticipate high volatility in the underlying asset but are unsure of the direction. It's important to consider your risk tolerance and market conditions before deciding to use this strategy.