Diagonal spread
Sell a near out-of-the-money call against a later at-the-money call.
Bullish2 legsDebit
Illustrative: underlying at 100, strikes every 2.5, front expiry 45 days, later legs 75 days, implied volatility 25%, model prices. One lot = 100 shares.
Key figures
| Opens for | a debit of $318 |
|---|---|
| Max profit | +$318 |
| Max loss | −$318 |
| Break-even | 100.25 |
| Position delta today | +23 shares |
| Outlook | Bullish |
The legs
| Action | Quantity | Option | Model price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sell | 1 | 105 call, 45 days | 1.79 |
| Buy | 1 | 100 call, 75 days | 4.97 |
How it works
Sell a near out-of-the-money call against a later at-the-money call. Time spreads use options with different expiry dates. The near option loses value faster, and the payoff is read at the near (front) expiry while the later option still has time left.
When it fits
It suits a view that the underlying holds up or rises before expiry.
What can go wrong
The most it can lose at expiry in this example is −$318. Short options can be assigned early, and a sharp fall with implied volatility rising can hurt more than the expiry line suggests, which is what the crash band shows. Because a later option is still open at the front expiry, the result there depends on implied volatility at that time, not only on the price.
Building it in Trident
In the Strategy Lab, choose diagonal spread and the days to expiry. Trident applies these strike rules to your live chain, prices each leg and draws the trade on the risk graph, where you can drag the days to expiry, change implied volatility or switch on the crash band. When it looks right, send it to order management; nothing reaches your broker until you send it.
Frequently asked questions
What is a diagonal spread?
Sell a near out-of-the-money call against a later at-the-money call.
What is the maximum loss on a diagonal spread?
In this illustrative example it is −$318 for one lot at expiry.
Where does a diagonal spread break even?
With the underlying at 100 in this illustrative example, the break-even at expiry is 100.25.
Can I build a diagonal spread in Trident?
Yes. Pick it in the Strategy Lab and Trident chooses the strikes from your live chain, prices the legs and draws it on the risk graph.
Illustrative example with model prices, not a recommendation. Options carry risk of loss. See the risk disclosure.