Over-the-counter options (OTC options) are a type of derivative contract that is traded directly between two parties, without going through an exchange or clearinghouse. These options are customized contracts that give the holder the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell an underlying asset at a specified price on or before a certain date.
OTC options are flexible and can be tailored to meet the specific needs of the parties involved. They are typically used by institutional investors, corporations, and high-net-worth individuals to hedge risk, speculate on price movements, or gain exposure to assets that may not be available on the traditional exchanges.
Trading OTC options requires a high level of sophistication and understanding of the underlying assets and market conditions. The lack of regulation and transparency in the OTC market means that these options can be more complex and risky than standardized exchange-traded options.
Overall, OTC options provide a valuable tool for investors looking to manage their risk exposure and pursue investment opportunities that may not be available through traditional channels.