Stocks

Market Whales and Their Recent Bets on AAPL Options

Published October 23, 2024

Recently, substantial investors, known as whales, have been displaying a bearish outlook on Apple, trading under the ticker AAPL.

Upon reviewing the options activity for Apple, we identified a total of 224 trades.

Analyzing these transactions, we found that 37% of traders opted for bullish positions, while 49% adopted a bearish stance. This indicates a cautious approach among investors regarding the future performance of Apple's stock.

Out of the trades examined, there were 86 puts worth approximately $6,299,706 and 138 calls totaling around $10,312,900.

Price Target Analysis

Based on the volume and open interest of these options contracts, whales have focused on a price range from $75.00 to $280.00 for Apple in the past three months. This broad range suggests differing expectations about Apple's market position.

Trends in Volume & Open Interest

Currently, the average open interest for Apple's options stands at around 11,167.94, with a total volume hitting 2,431,232. These figures highlight the active trading environment surrounding Apple's options and are reflected in the chart that illustrates the call and put option volume and open interest for significant trades within the previously mentioned strike price range over the last 30 days.

30-Day Overview of Call and Put Volume

An examination of the recent options activity reveals a mix of strategies from those participating in the market.

Highlights of Options Activity:

Symbol PUT/CALL Trade Type Sentiment Exp. Date Ask Bid Price Strike Price Total Trade Price Open Interest Volume
AAPL CALL TRADE BEARISH 11/15/24 $100.2 $100.0 $100.0 $130.00 $500.0K 272 150
AAPL CALL SWEEP BULLISH 06/18/26 $57.25 $57.0 $57.35 $195.00 $206.3K 2.1K 36
AAPL CALL TRADE BEARISH 03/21/25 $131.6 $131.2 $131.3 $100.00 $131.3K 505 10
AAPL CALL SWEEP BEARISH 11/01/24 $4.7 $4.65 $4.65 $230.00 $93.0K 5.9K 5.8K
AAPL CALL SWEEP BEARISH 11/01/24 $2.88 $2.85 $2.85 $235.00 $80.9K 16.2K 9.6K

Overview of Apple Inc.

Apple Inc. stands as one of the world's largest corporations, boasting a diverse array of hardware and software offerings for consumers and businesses alike. The company's flagship product, the iPhone, constitutes a significant portion of its revenue, while other devices like the Mac, iPad, and Apple Watch complement its expansive software ecosystem.

In recent years, Apple has broadened its service offerings by introducing new applications in areas such as media streaming and subscription services, as well as exploring augmented reality solutions.

Apple prides itself on designing its software and semiconductors. However, it collaborates with manufacturers like Foxconn and TSMC for the production of its products and chips. Interestingly, nearly half of Apple's sales occur directly through its own retail stores, while the remainder stems from various partnerships and distribution channels.

Current Standing of Apple

As of now, Apple's trading volume amounts to 37,924,133, with the stock price decreasing by 2.61%, currently at $229.71.

The recent Relative Strength Index (RSI) values imply that the stock may be nearing overbought conditions.

The upcoming earnings report from Apple is anticipated to be released in about eight days.

Analyst Insights on Apple

Over the past month, five professional analysts have provided their perspectives on Apple's stock, concluding with an average price target of approximately $227.984.

Recent Ratings Adjustments:

  • One analyst from Needham lowered their rating to Buy, amending the price target to $260.
  • A B of A Securities analyst also reduced their rating to Buy, with a new target of $256.
  • Barclays has retained an Underweight rating, setting a price target of $186.
  • An analyst at New Street Research shifted their rating to Neutral, adjusting the target to $225.
  • Finally, an analyst from Jefferies revised their rating to Hold, with a price target of $212.

Options trading carries inherent risks compared to common stock trading but offers enhanced potential for profit. Experienced options traders manage this risk by continually educating themselves, utilizing multiple indicators, and keeping a close eye on market trends.

To stay informed about the latest options trades concerning Apple, consider platforms that offer real-time options alerts.

Whales, Options, AAPL