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Brochures

The Options Industry Council has a wide range of free resources for you to learn more about equity and index options, options strategies, and the risks associated with trading options. The brochures area is divided into three main categories, and you can navigate among these areas by using the tab system at the top of each page.

General

• Options Strategies in a Bearish Market (PDF | 1.47M)
  This publication contains the entire Bear Market Class.
• Options Strategies in a Bullish Market (PDF)
  This publication contains the entire Bull Market Class.
• Options Strategies in a Neutral Market (PDF)
  This publication contains the entire Neutral Market Class.
• Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options - Provided by OCC
  This publication refers solely to options issued by OCC. Prior to buying or selling an option, a person must receive a copy of this brochure.
• Directory of Exchange Listed Options (XLS)
  Updated: May 11, 2010.
  This spreadsheet details all equity, index, currency, and treasury options listed on the AMEX, BATS, BOX, C2, CBOE, ISE, NASDAQ, NYSE Arca, and PHLX.
• The Equity Options Strategy Guide (PDF)
  This publication provides an introduction to some of the basic equity option strategies available to option and/or stock investors.
• Expiration Calendars
  Published yearly, this calendar highlights expiration dates for equity, index, and interest rate products, currency options, expiration month codes, strike price codes, and exchange holidays.
• Long-Term Equity Anticipation Securities (PDF)
  The purpose of this booklet is to provide an introductory understanding of exchange-listed, long-term options called LEAPS® (Long-term Equity Anticipation Securities) and how they can be used.
  
• Options Education Services Brochure (PDF)
  Order hard copies of any of our other brochures with this mail-in order form.
• Options Strategies Quick Guide (PDF)
  This booklet provides a quick overview of various options strategies.
• Taxes and Investing (PDF)
  This booklet summarizes the basic rules governing the federal income taxation of certain investments by individuals who are citizens or residents of the United States and who dispose of an investment in a taxable transaction.
• Understanding Equity Options (PDF)
  Take a look at an introductory understanding of equity options and how they can be used.
• Understanding Index Options (PDF)
  Gain an introductory understanding of index options and how they can be used.

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Confused? Have a question? If you're having trouble grasping a concept or if this page doesn't answer a question, feel free to call 1-888-OPTIONS (between 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. CT), or email options@theocc.com to ask your question. You may also visit Investor Services for more information.