Option Chains

Option Chains list the strike prices, expiration dates and other option data for the available calls and puts for an underlying security. In StreetSmart Edge®, you choose the call or put you want to trade from the Option Chain display in the Trade tool or Symbol Hub.

Further, if you are placing a multi-leg option trade, the option chain will show the pairings of calls and puts appropriate for the multi-leg strategy you have selected from the Strategy Selector.

For more information on the strategies available for trading in StreetSmart Edge®, see Option Strategies Overview.

Expanded Display

• For simple calls and puts, click the arrow at the beginning of each row to display the available contracts for a particular expiration date.
• For more details about each option, click the arrow next to the contract to display the contract specifications along with options Level I and Participant Top of Book data for the contract.
• When you have selected a multi-leg strategy to trade, click the arrow at the beginning of each row to display the legs in each pairing.

Option Chain Filters

At the top of the option chain display, there are several filters, such as strike range or number to show, that can help you further whittle down to the types of options or option pairings you want to view. See the Option Chain Filters topic for more on using these filters.

Weekly, Quarterly, & Adjusted Option Filters

Control the display of options with Weekly or Quarterly expirations, as well as Adjusted options, from the Settings drop-down of the main menu, or from the Actions drop-down in the Option Chains display. See Option Chains Settings for more on filtering non-standard and adjusted options.

Option Chain Columns

You can customize the columns displayed in the option chain, as well as determine several other settings for the display. To learn about these settings, see the Option Chains Columns and Settings topic.

Order Status Indicator

If you have an open order for the selected option, a small O indicator will display next to the Strike price.

• Click the indicator to display a list of all option and equity orders in your account for the underlying symbol.
• The list shows the details of each order (price, venue, quantity, etc.), order number, and quantity filled.
• It also gives you quick access links to Cancel, Change, or Add/Edit Brackets for each order. For more on changing, canceling, or editing brackets, see Changing or Canceling Orders.

Positions Indicator

If you hold a position in the selected option, a small P indicator will display next to the Strike price.

• Click the indicator to display a list of all option and equity positions in your account for the underlying symbol.
• The list shows each equity position, each option position, unrealized P&L for each, and includes a link to Close Position.
• Clicking the Close Position link will open a trade ticket window with the quantity pre-filled and Close All selected (you can uncheck Close All and reduce the quantity if you wish). Click Review Order to review the order and then Place Order to send the order.

Options carry a high level of risk and are not suitable for all investors. Certain requirements must be met to trade options through Schwab. Multiple leg options strategies will involve multiple commissions. Please read the options disclosure document titled "Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options." Member SIPC