Bear Put Spread

IntermediateOptions & Derivatives2 min read

Quick Definition

A bearish options strategy that involves buying a higher-strike put and selling a lower-strike put on the same underlying with the same expiration.

What Is Bear Put Spread?

A bear put spread (also called a put debit spread) is a vertical spread strategy used when a trader expects a moderate decline in the underlying asset. The strategy involves buying a put option at a higher strike price and simultaneously selling a put option at a lower strike price, both with the same expiration date. The net cost (debit) is the maximum potential loss, while the maximum profit is the difference between the strike prices minus the premium paid. This strategy limits both risk and reward compared to buying a put outright. It reduces the cost of the position by collecting premium from the short put, but also caps the potential gain at the lower strike price.

Bear Put Spread Example

  • 1With stock at $50 and expecting a drop, you buy the $50 put for $3 and sell the $45 put for $1. Max loss is $2 (net debit), max profit is $3 ($5 spread minus $2 cost)
  • 2A bear put spread on SPY with 30 days to expiration: buy the $450 put, sell the $440 put, paying $4 net for a $10-wide spread with max profit of $6