Core Viewpoint - The use of options tools has accelerated in recent years, helping companies manage risks related to raw material procurement prices, product sales prices, and exchange rates, thereby enhancing efficiency and reducing costs [1] Group 1: Risk Management with Options - A stainless steel company faces inventory value fluctuation risks and seeks to hedge against potential depreciation using financial instruments [1] - The company requires a solution that allows for profit generation when inventory values rise, which traditional futures contracts cannot provide, leading to the use of options [1][2] - A specific options strategy, known as the "seagull option," is proposed to mitigate risks while keeping costs low [4] Group 2: Seagull Option Strategy - The seagull option involves buying a put option with a strike price of 12,500 yuan/ton, selling a call option with a strike price of 14,000 yuan/ton, and selling another put option with a strike price of 11,000 yuan/ton [4] - This strategy allows the company to protect against inventory value declines while not incurring additional losses during slight price increases [4][5] - However, the strategy has limitations, including exposure to significant price drops below 11,000 yuan/ton and price increases above 14,000 yuan/ton [5] Group 3: Cost Reduction through Accumulated Purchase Options - A large stainless steel processing company plans to use accumulated purchase options to lock in lower procurement prices while managing the risk of rising costs [6] - The accumulated purchase option has specific terms, including an execution price of 14,050 yuan/ton and a knock-out price of 14,480 yuan/ton, allowing for flexible purchasing based on market conditions [6] - The company successfully saved 9,550 yuan in procurement costs by utilizing this strategy over a 30-day observation period [7] Group 4: Advantages and Risks of Accumulated Purchase Options - Accumulated purchase options are suitable for investors who are optimistic about the long-term outlook but uncertain about short-term price movements [8] - The mechanism of "periodic mandatory purchases" helps investors avoid emotional trading behaviors, promoting disciplined investment habits [8] - However, the primary risk lies in continuous price declines, which can lead to increasing losses for investors [8] Group 5: Importance of Tailored Options Strategies - Companies must accurately assess risk types and select appropriate options products and terms to design personalized hedging solutions in collaboration with professional financial institutions [9]