Futures 101

The foregoing is, at most, a brief and incomplete discussion of a complex topic. Options trading has its own vocabulary and its own arithmetic. If you wish to consider trading in options on futures contracts, you should discuss the possibility with your broker and read and thoroughly understand the Options Disclosure Document which he is required to provide. In addition, have your broker provide you with educational and other literature prepared by the exchanges on which options are traded. Or contact the exchange directly. A number of excellent publications are available. In no way, it should be emphasized, should anything discussed herein be considered trading advice or recommendations. That should be provided by your broker or advisor. Similarly, your broker or advisor--as well as the exchanges where futures contracts are traded--are your best sources for additional, more detailed information about futures trading.

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