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Are Options Traders Betting on a Big Move in Herbalife (HLF) Stock?

Zacks Equity Research
Updated

Investors in Herbalife Ltd. HLF need to pay close attention to the stock based on moves in the options market lately. That is because the May 19th, 2017, $51.50 Put had some of the highest implied volatility of all equity options today.

What is Implied Volatility?

Implied volatility shows how much movement the market is expecting in the future. Options with high levels of implied volatility suggest that investors in the underlying stocks are expecting a big move in one direction or the other. It could also mean there is an event coming up soon that may cause a big rally or a huge sell off. However, implied volatility is only one piece of the puzzle when putting together an options trading strategy.

What do the Analysts Think?

Clearly, options traders are pricing in a big move for Herbalife shares, but what is the fundamental picture for the company? Currently, Herbalife is a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) in the Retail - Pharmacies and Drug Stores industry that ranks in the Top 17% of our Zacks Industry Rank. Over the last 60 days, no analysts have increased their earnings estimates for the current quarter, while 1 has dropped their estimates. The net effect has taken our Zacks Consensus Estimate for the current quarter from $1.07 per shareto $1.00 in that period.

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Given the way analysts feel about Herbalife right now, this huge implied volatility could mean there’s a trade developing. Often times, options traders look for options with high levels of implied volatility to sell premium. This is a strategy many seasoned traders use because it captures decay. At expiration, the hope for these traders is that the underlying stock does not move as much as originally expected.

Looking to Trade Options?

Each week, our very own Dave Bartosiak gives his top options trades. Check out his recent live analysis and options trade for the TSLA earnings report completely free. See it here: Tesla Earnings Preview with Options Trade Ideasor check out the embedded video below for more details:


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Zacks Investment Research