Is the Options Market Predicting a Spike in IBM Stock?

Core Viewpoint - Investors should closely monitor IBM stock due to significant implied volatility in the options market, particularly for the Feb. 20, 2026 $165 Call option, indicating expectations of a substantial price movement [1] Group 1: Implied Volatility - Implied volatility reflects market expectations for future price movements, with high levels suggesting potential for a significant rally or sell-off [2] - Options with high implied volatility are often sought by traders looking to sell premium, as this strategy can capitalize on time decay [4] Group 2: Analyst Sentiment - IBM currently holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold) within the Computer - Integrated Systems industry, which is in the top 12% of the Zacks Industry Rank [3] - Over the past 60 days, three analysts have raised their earnings estimates for the current quarter, while one has lowered them, resulting in a net increase of the Zacks Consensus Estimate from $1.76 to $1.78 per share [3]