Black-Scholes Option Pricing Formula:
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The Black-Scholes model is a mathematical model for pricing options contracts. It calculates the theoretical price of European-style options using current stock price, strike price, time to expiration, risk-free interest rate, and volatility.
The calculator uses the Black-Scholes formula:
Where:
Explanation: The model assumes stock prices follow a lognormal distribution and provides a theoretical value for options pricing.
Details: Accurate option pricing is crucial for traders, investors, and financial institutions to determine fair value, hedge positions, and manage risk in options trading.
Tips: Enter stock price and strike price in dollars, interest rate and volatility as percentages, time in years. All values must be positive and valid.
Q1: What are the limitations of the Black-Scholes model?
A: The model assumes constant volatility, no dividends, European-style options, and efficient markets, which may not reflect real-world conditions.
Q2: Can this calculator price American options?
A: No, the Black-Scholes model is specifically for European options. American options require different pricing models.
Q3: How does volatility affect option prices?
A: Higher volatility generally increases option prices for both calls and puts due to greater potential price movement.
Q4: What is the risk-free rate typically based on?
A: The risk-free rate is usually based on government bond yields, such as US Treasury bills, with similar maturity to the option.
Q5: How accurate is the Black-Scholes model in real markets?
A: While widely used, the model has known limitations and may not perfectly match market prices, especially for deep in/out-of-the-money options.