Options Corner: AMD's Rally Ahead of Earnings

Core Insights - AMD has shown significant performance, increasing approximately 84.5% over the past year, outperforming the SMH Semiconductor ETF by nearly 34.5% and the S&P 500 by 64.5% [1][2] Performance Comparison - In comparison to other chip makers, AMD is positioned in the middle, with Micron leading the storage segment, while Nvidia has lagged behind [2] Technical Analysis - AMD's stock has experienced notable highs around 267 and lows near 203, with a recent breakout above the 240 level indicating bullish momentum [3][4] - A symmetrical triangle pattern has formed, suggesting consolidation before upcoming earnings, which is a common market behavior [4] - The volume profile indicates support levels around 240 and 235, with the 21-day exponential moving average also providing support [5] Momentum and Resistance - There is a noted decline in momentum, indicating a bearish divergence, yet overall momentum remains high as the stock approaches overbought territory [6][7] - The standard deviation channels suggest potential resistance near 260, with a higher resistance level at approximately 299 [7] Options Strategy - An options strategy is proposed to capitalize on the higher implied volatility leading up to earnings, suggesting a neutral to bullish outlook [8][9] - A specific trade involves selling an out-of-the-money 240 strike put while buying a 230 strike put, creating a short $10 wide neutral to bullish put vertical [10][11] - This strategy offers a probability of success with a 70% chance of the short 240 strike finishing out of the money, allowing for profit if the stock remains above the break-even point of 237.70 [12][13]