Abstract

The options market plays a critical role in price discovery and risk management. This study examines how option liquidity and Greeks influence implied volatility and market efficiency. Using a comprehensive dataset of option contracts across varying volatility levels, we analyze the effects of open interest, trading volume, moneyness, and time to expiration on implied volatility. Multiple regression models differentiate between call and put options, incorporating interaction terms to capture variations across moneyness and expiration horizons. Results indicate that liquidity significantly impacts implied volatility, with notable distinctions between calls and puts. The findings suggest that liquidity-adjusted measures enhance model accuracy, highlighting the options market’s role in underlying security pricing. Overall, this study contributes to the existing literature by reinforcing the role of the options market in explaining efficiency in the underlying security market. The results highlight the importance of liquidity in options pricing and suggest that implied volatility serves as a valuable metric for assessing market conditions. These insights have implications for investors, traders, and policymakers seeking to understand the interplay between derivative instruments and the broader financial markets.

Advisor

Tian, Huiting

Department

Business Economics

Disciplines

Finance and Financial Management | Portfolio and Security Analysis

Publication Date

2025

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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