Midday index, ETF option volumes
Total option volume is relatively strong at 7 million contracts so far today, with a few surprises in the indexes and ETFs, according to optionMONSTER data systems.
The iShares Russell 2000 Fund (IWM) just outpaces the SPDR S&P 500 Fund (:SPY) today, both right around 632,000 contracts and both with 380,000 puts.
The CBOE Volatility Index (:VIX) has 410,000 options traded, with calls outpacing puts by more than 4 to 1. The SPDR Financial Fund (XLF) has 172,00 options traded, dominated by 168,000 puts. The S&P 500 Index (:SPX) has 160,000 contracts changing hands, with 101,000 puts.
The iShares Real Estate Fund (IYR) has seen 107,000 options turn over, led by 90,000 puts. The iPath S&P 500 VIX Short-Term Futures Note (:VXX) has 90,000 options traded, with puts slightly outpacing calls.
More From optionMONSTER
