Options Books - Page 2

Technical Analysis for Dummies

Barbara Rockefeller

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 26 Average rating: 4.0 of 5

Best Little Guide To Technical Analysis 5 out of 5 stars.
2 of 2 people found this review helpful.

This book is a nice synopsis of technical indicators and is written in common understandable English. There are big tomes written on this subject but this is all you will need to get a good grasp of the subject. It is not a recipe book that will tell you how to make a bundle of money in the stock market, but you are unlikely to make a bundle without mastering the analytic techniques discussed in this book. You will develop your own favorite indicators and combination of indicators to help you invest, but without understanding the basics of the technical analysis, you will be lost. And this book is a good source of learning just that.

Editorial Review:

A simple, straightforward guide to the fundamentals of technical analysis
For active traders and investors who don't understand the complicated art of technical analysis, this commonsense resource covers all the bases. Explaining the basic principles of analysis and showing how to implement them, Technical Analysis For Dummies dumps the confusing jargon and unreadable charts for basic explanations and practical guidance. In no time at all, readers will see how to make better trading decisions.
Barbara Rockefeller (Stamford, CT) is one of the foremost authorities on technical analysis and founder of Rockefeller Treasury Services.

Options, Futures and Other Derivatives (6th Edition)

John C. Hull

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 71 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

The gold standard (although you may not need to upgrade to the seventh edition) 5 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

This is the definitive introduction to derivatives. As evidence of its relevance, the following chapters are assigned to Financial Risk Manager (FRM) candidates: Hedging Strategies using Futures (Chapter 3), Determination of Forward and Futures Prices (5), Interest Rate Futures (6), Swaps (7), Properties of Stock Options (9), Trading Strategies Involving Options (10), Binomial Trees (11), Black-Scholes-Merton Model (13), Greeks (15), Volatility Smiles (16), Exotic Options (22).

Given that this is an expensive text, the most frequent question I get is, do I need to buy the latest edition? Perhaps you do not: the updates from fifth to sixth edition, and from sixth to seventh edition, have both been modest "version" upgrades. Here is a rule-of-thumb: the more introductory the topic (i.e., the earlier the chapter), the less likely you want/need the upgrade. The early chapters on futures, hedging, interest rate futures, swaps, and option pricing have barely changed since the fifth edition. Further, from what i can tell, the end-of-chapter questions are largely the same/similar.

In regard to the seventh, in addition to a number of refinements (e.g., some reorganization), the two noticeable differences are: a new chapter on valuation of employee stock option (a particular expertise of Hull's) and more material on certain credit derivatives (CDOs, credit default swap) including a bit more help on Gaussian copula. However, in regard to credit derivatives, in total, Hull gives a quick tour which may be challenging to the new learner. It is maybe not the best place to start for credit derivatives per se.

But, this is the gold standard, a work of art, as far as finance texts go. It may be an introduction but it offers encyclopedic breadth. I've read it several times over, worked most of the problems, taught from it, argued with it, and yet I keep needing to refer to it--Hull is the trusted adviser you call in a crunch, because you know he knows--full mastery is probably still years away.

Editorial Review:

Designed to bridge the gap between theory and practice, this successful book is regarded as "the bible" in trading rooms throughout the world. The books covers both derivatives markets and risk management, including credit risk and credit derivatives; forward, futures, and swaps; insurance, weather, and energy derivatives; and more. For options traders, options analysts, risk managers, swaps traders, financial engineers, and corporate treasurers.

The Bible of Options Strategies: The Definitive Guide for Practical Trading Strategies

Guy Cohen

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 46 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Good Reference Book 5 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

This is more a dictionary of options strategies than a regular book. But it organizes and explains each strategy well.

Outside academia, this is the only option book you'll need 5 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

I have several books on options, but this is the one book that I keep on using. Most option books spend too much time on how to price an option. Unless you are active in thinly traded options, the market will dictate the current market price. This book gets right into why you are interested in options. Each option situation is broken down so anybody with a basic understanding will understand. For each situation, he discusses the Greeks (the new hip way of talking about options), risks, pros and cons, as well as an example. The only subject this book seems to fall short is what to do when your position is not going your way and how to minimize your loss.

I have a coworker that is interested in options and this was the only book I suggested he read.

Editorial Review:

For the first time: the world's 60 best options trading strategies, all in one expert reference! *The practical, easy-to-use trading reference for every options trader. *Why each strategy works, when it's appropriate, and how to use it -- step by step! *By Guy Cohen, creator of the Optionseasy system that's helped thousands of traders achieve breakthrough results!

The Volatility Edge in Options Trading: New Technical Strategies for Investing in Unstable Markets

Jeff Augen

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 15 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Not a gem not really helpful. 1 out of 5 stars.
3 of 9 people found this review helpful.

Two of methods in this books are unique, but too hard to put to use in consistent basis for serious traders. Save money and buy a book on technical analysis on stocks for options trading.

Super Book About Trading Volitility With Options 5 out of 5 stars.
2 of 2 people found this review helpful.

Rare find, this book is well written and nicely organized. I now have a far greater insight on how to profit in my option trading using volitility as an additional method. I read one review that mentioned that this book is not the Holy Grail, I agree and neither is any other book I have ever read on the subject, I do not believe there is such a thing nor probably ever will be. I will say this much about Mr Augen's book, it is definitely in the top 5% of those on the market today and any serious or want to be serious trader ought to do himself or herself a favor and add this arrow to their quiver.

Editorial Review:

Jeff's analysis is unique, at least among academic derivatives textbooks. I would definitely use this material in my derivatives class, as I believe students would benefit from analyzing the many dimensions of Jeff's trading strategies. I especially found the material on trading the earnings cycle and discussion of how to insure against price jumps at known events very worthwhile.'

Options As a Strategic Investment (4th Edition Study Guide)

Lawrence G. McMillan

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 71 Average rating: 4.0 of 5

Decent reference material 4 out of 5 stars.
2 of 2 people found this review helpful.

I actually ended up finishing this FAT book, even though I felt I was reading the same rhetoric again and again all along the book. This book could have been a lot SLIMMER. Although not a bad book to have in the library. I use it every now and then for reference (like margin requirements, prospective gamma changes, etc.).
Considering there are very few books on options trading out there that has good substance (although, there are decent amount of articles and research papers on options out there), it's a must have for your library, whether you are seasoned options trader or an intermediate options trader.

Editorial Review:

This blockbuster bestseller--more than 100,000 copies sold--is considered to be the bible of options trading. Now completely revised and updated to encompass all the latest options trading vehicles, it supplies traders and serious investors with an abundance of new, strategic opportunities for managing their investments. Examples make clear the power of each strategy in carefully defined market condition.

A Beginner's Guide to Short-Term Trading: How to Maximize Profits in 3 Days to 3 Weeks

Toni Turner

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 39 Average rating: 4.0 of 5

Possibly the Best Book for Beginning Traders !!!!!!!! 5 out of 5 stars.
2 of 2 people found this review helpful.

Look no further than this book if you are just getting started trading. This book condenses a wealth of knowledge from the super pros into a very understandable read. Better than the Dummies Series books.

Editorial Review:

The financial markets have changed considerably since "A Beginner's Guide to Short-Term Trading" was first published in January 2002. The dot.com implosion, a two-year bear market, wars in the Middle East, a burgeoning demand for commodities, and a softening real estate market have all contributed to a tumultuous stock market.The face and operating procedures of the markets have also changed. In 2001, decimalisation altered the time-honoured pricing of stocks in fractions, and gave way to quotations now delivered in one-cent increments. In addition, exciting new trading products have entered the markets. These include the E-minis (mini-versions of stock index futures contracts), and a host of Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) that offer baskets of stocks (industry groups or country-specific) traded as a single instrument."A Beginner's Guide to Short-Term Trading, 2nd Edition" will include updates on all the current issues affecting the market.

Come Into My Trading Room: A Complete Guide to Trading

Alexander Elder

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 101 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Editorial Review:

The trading bible for the new millennium

In Come Into My Trading Room, noted trader and author Dr. Alexander Elder returns to expand far beyond the three M's (Mind, Method, and Money) of his bestselling Trading for a Living. Shifting focus from technical analysis to the overall management of a trader's money, time, and strategy, Dr. Elder takes readers from the fundamentals to the secrets of being a successful trader--identifying new, little known indicators that can lead to huge profits.

Come Into My Trading Room educates the novice and fortifies the professional through expert advice and proven trading methodologies. This comprehensive trading guide provides a complete introduction to the essentials of successful trading; a fresh look at the three M's, including a proven, step-by-step money management strategy; and an in-depth look at organizing your trading time. Come Into My Trading Room reviews the basics of trading stocks, futures, and options as well as crucial psychological tactics for discipline and organization—with the goal of turning anyone into a complete and successful trader.

By showing traders how to combine the elements of mind, method, and money, Come Into My Trading Room gives readers the knowledge and insight to enter the market with confidence and exit with profits. Unparalleled depth and a wide range of coverage will keep all levels of traders engaged, informed, and returning to Come Into My Trading Room again and again.

Dr. Alexander Elder (New York, NY) is a professional trader, technical analysis expert, and practicing psychiatrist. He is the founder of Financial Trading Inc., providing intensive trading camps to traders all over the world. Elder's first book Trading for a Living (Wiley: 0471592242) and the companion study guide have sold over 160,000 copies.

Trading for Dummies

Michael Griffis, Lita, MBA Epstein

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 9 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Editorial Review:

When people think of stock trading, they often think of the glory days of the Internet, when stocks just kept going up and everyone seemed to be making a fortune. Since the bubble burst, many people are scared of investing in the stock market. Sure, stocks are risky—just like any other investment—but with the right knowledge and tactics, there’s still money to be made.

Trading For Dummies isn’t about high-risk, fast-paced day trading. It’s a simple, straightforward guide to the ins and outs of stock investing that offers a measured, level-headed approach to trading. You’ll learn the basics of portfolio management, measuring stock value, market analysis, and much more—all with a focus on risk reduction and steady profits. Inside you’ll learn how to:

• Understand market cycles
• Choose a great broker
• Master technical analysis
• Manage your risk exposure
• Build a balanced portfolio

This friendly guide presents the kind of honest advice you won’t find in the typical get-rich-quick books on trading. Full of practical tips and tactics—as well as hardnosed insider advice—this handy resource shows you how to build a strong, balanced, and profitable portfolio. Whether you want to save up for your retirement or pay for college, Trading For Dummies will show you how to:

• Prepare yourself with the right tools and information
• Develop your own custom trading strategy
• Analyze companies and stocks
• Understand all the exchanges and markets
• Understand broker fee structures
• Analyze market behavior
• Decipher income statements, balance sheets, and ratios
• Read charts and graphs
• Spot trends and profit from them

This book has all the tools and honest advice novice stock traders need to get set-up quickly and safely. Basic strategies and stock valuation methodologies let you control your risk exposure and make wise decisions. Trading For Dummies includes everything new traders need with advice on every type of stock or derivative, every kind of trade, and every popular strategy.

The Disciplined Trader: Developing Winning Attitudes

Mark Douglas

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 106 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

A missing piece of the trading puzzle 3 out of 5 stars.
3 of 3 people found this review helpful.

It is crucial that all traders master the principles presented in this book. The lessons presented in this book are 5 stars, however the writing style is 2 stars. If you can walk away with the principles this book teaches in staying with your system, do not buy or sell stocks based on your emotions, and be mentally prepared for both wins and losses then you will do well. I am sorry to say that reading this book is torture, it is about three times as long as it should be. The writers style makes the principles far to complex and clinical. The book dives far deeper into psychology than is needed to trade stocks in a disciplined manner. You would do better to read any of Alexander Elder's book on how to manage the mind while trading stocks or read the author's other book "Trading in the Zone" for a much lighter read. This book is just over kill on simple concepts. Also, reading the last two chapters of this book is all you really need.

Editorial Review:

Offers rare insight from an expert in the dynamics of trading psychology. Shows why most traders are unprepared for the strategies required for success in trading, and why behaviors which are learned to function effectively in society are often formidable psychological barriers to trading profitably. Shows that the chaos isn't in the markets...it is in the trader's head! Presents revolutionary, ideas on discipline, responsibility, and sell-esteem, and the impact of your attitudes on your future success or failure as a trader. Gives a step-by-step approach to successful attitudes and behavior.

My Life as a Quant: Reflections on Physics and Finance

Emanuel Derman

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 69 Average rating: 4.0 of 5

Boring and repetetive 2 out of 5 stars.
1 of 3 people found this review helpful.

Very (very) shallow on technical content. Bizarre and boring anecdotes about the politics of the big investment banks. Detailed stories about uninteresting aspects of the author's life. I kept looking for some real beef, but gave up at some point.

Learn: What is a quant, and what's it like to be one, and why would you? 5 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

I enjoyed this book very much. It's like a memoir, but focuses on his professional life. He talks about his training in physics, and how hard it is to get satisfactory (to him) employment. He switched to being a quantitative analyst on Wall Street. He talks a lot about what that really means, how the quants fit into the structure of Wall Street, and he even gets into some of the technical detail (I would have liked a bit more of that). It's well written and fun.

Editorial Review:

In My Life as a Quant, Emanuel Derman relives his exciting journey as one of the first high-energy particle physicists to migrate to Wall Street. Page by page, Derman details his adventures in this field—analyzing the incompatible personas of traders and quants, and discussing the dissimilar nature of knowledge in physics and finance. Throughout this tale, he also reflects on the appropriate way to apply the refined methods of physics to the hurly-burly world of markets.