Options Corner: IBM

Core Insights - IBM has shown signs of recovery after a significant pullback, but it is underperforming the tech sector while slightly outperforming the S&P 500 [2][4] - Comparisons with other IT service companies like Cognizant and Infosys may be misleading; Oracle, Microsoft, and Amazon are more relevant benchmarks for IBM's current state [3] - The stock has experienced significant intraday highs but has struggled to maintain a close above key resistance levels, indicating potential consolidation points [4][5] Technical Analysis - The highest close for IBM was at 295, with intraday highs reaching 301.04, but it could not sustain above these levels [4] - A consolidation area near 272 has emerged, suggesting a potential support level for bulls [4] - The stock is currently within a downward sloping channel, and a close above 281-282 would be a positive indicator for upward momentum [6][7] Options Strategy - A complex options strategy is proposed to capitalize on near-term higher implied volatility while providing some upside exposure [8][9] - The strategy involves a bearish put calendar and a short call vertical, aiming for a credit of about 0.7, with a break-even point at $300.70 [12][13] - This setup allows for profitability if the stock declines, particularly if it falls to around 250, while still offering some protection if the stock remains below the 300 strike [13][14]