Advisors Option 27: Groundbreaking New Options Study

The Buzz: The Chicago Board Options Exchange announced today the release and publication of a groundbreaking new study: "Highlights of Performance Analysis of Options-Based Equity Mutual Funds, CEFs, and ETFs." The study analyzed SEC-regulated investment companies (mutual funds, exchange traded funds (ETFs) and closed-end funds (CEFs)) that focus on use of exchange-listed options for portfolio management (options-based funds). The study analyzed the equal-weighted performance of a subset (nearly three-fourths) of the 119 options-based funds -- those that focus on use of U.S. stock index options and/or equity options -- during the 15-year period from 2000 through 2014. Key Takeaways: The number of options-based funds is growing. Options-based funds averaged 4.2% total return over the 15-year period - tied with the S&P500 over the same period. The options-based funds had higher risk-adjusted returns (as measured by the Sharpe Ratio and Sortino Ratio) than the S&P 500 and S&P GSCI Indexes. The options-based funds had lower volatility and lower maximum drawdowns than the S&P 500 and S&P GSCI Indexes. Listener Mail: Listener questions and comments Question from Alpha Numero. Happy 2015. It seems like we are looking somewhat top-heavy in the broad indices these days. I typically run portfolios as long equity - usually spy - with an OTM 1-2 month covered call - typically around 2.5%-3% out of the money. I often pair that with a farther 2-3 month OTM put - typically 5% OTM. In the current market would you recommend tightening up on that put - perhaps to around 2% OTM? This will undoubtedly result in a debit but I am ok with that if if preserves my portfolios. Would you also recommend tightening the covered call strike to reduce the net outlay on the position? What other strategies would you recommend for practitioners like myself who want to remain in the market but are concerned about near-term risk? Question from RVC10. Are there any special tax considerations I should consider before using options on behalf of my clients? Question from John D. Can you please explain the concept of risk premium as it applies to options trading and hedging? Question from JPK211. On several of your programs you mention that it is important to understand the VIX Cash level at a given SPX level. Can you please explain this further? Tricks of the Trade: Short-duration contracts are all-the-rage in the options market these days. SPX Weeklys acounted for approximately 32% of overall SPX contract volume in 2014, up from approximately 23% the previous year.