SEBI is exploring a new plan to manage in-the-money (ITM) single stock option contracts. Instead of leading directly to physical delivery, these options will first be converted into futures contracts one day before their expiry, known as E-1 day.
Here’s how it would work: On E-1 day, all ITM single stock options will turn into futures contracts. Traders will then have the chance to close these futures positions on the actual expiry day, called E day. However, any futures contracts still open on E day will be settled through physical delivery, following the existing rules.
This proposal aims to reduce the risks associated with sudden price movements. Currently, if an out-of-the-money (OTM) option unexpectedly becomes ITM at the last moment, traders may face surprise delivery obligations. Such situations can lead to financial losses or even defaults. The new framework hopes to prevent this by giving traders more flexibility and clarity before expiry.
