Why do options have only 2 decimals?

Discussion in 'Options' started by thecoder, Nov 11, 2021.

  1. thecoder

    thecoder

    Why do options have only 2 decimals?
    Since the price of an option is a fraction of the underlying, then options should have 4 decimals, much like the underlyings.
    IMHO something is illogical in WallStreet...
     
  2. Robert Morse

    Robert Morse Sponsor

    You want 16 options exchanges and option markets quoted out 4 decimal places? With the current fractured markets, it is hard enough to buy on the bid and sell on the offer with your order on one exchange while it can trade on another. Adding 3-4 decimal places would make it even easier to trade a small value lower/higher and not allow customers to participate. IMO, this is not in your best interest.
     
    Ninja likes this.
  3. rb7

    rb7

    Underlyings with 4 decimals????

    Are you referring to options on equity on the US market?
     
  4. thecoder

    thecoder

    @rb7 , yes stocks have usually 4 decimals, therefore just wondering why options have only 2 decimals, whereas it's the options which need more decimals since their values (premium) are only a fraction of the spot of the underlying stock etc....
     
  5. thecoder

    thecoder

    Sorry, don't get it. Can you explain, pls.
    It works well with stocks, so then it should also work with options, IMO.
     
  6. Robert Morse

    Robert Morse Sponsor

    It does not work well with stocks, IMO. We only offer that is stocks under $1.00. You bid $0.6501 for 2000 shares, a sell order comes into an equity Market maker, he can pay $0.6502 and shut you out. The same can happen in options.

     
  7. thecoder

    thecoder

    Hey, Robert, sorry to say this, but there is IMO no logic in your argument, b/c if true then why not eliminate all decimals?... :)
     
    breadcrum likes this.
  8. maxinger

    maxinger

    [​IMG]

    No! No 4 decimals!!!
    elderly folks don't have great eye sights.

    In fact, just 1 decimal is enough.
     
    thecoder likes this.
  9. newwurldmn

    newwurldmn

    I trade options in 6 decimals.
     
  10. JSOP

    JSOP

    Well go try to have option prices with four decimals or even ten decimals in your country China to see how it plays out and then talk.
     
    #10     Nov 11, 2021