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Frequently asked questions
Is unusual options activity a reliable trading signal?
No. It shows that a large or unusual trade happened, not why. Many large trades are hedges, spreads or closing trades, and many speculative trades lose money.
Does unusual activity mean someone has inside information?
Not necessarily, and usually there is no way to know. Trading on material non-public information is illegal; regulators investigate suspicious activity, but most large trades have ordinary explanations.
Why does volume above open interest matter?
It means at least part of today's volume must be new positions. Check whether open interest rose the next day to confirm positions were held.
Is a big call purchase always bullish?
No. It could be a hedge against a short stock position, part of a spread, or a closing trade. Bid/ask side and related trades help, but intent stays uncertain.
What's the difference between a sweep and a block?
A sweep is split across exchanges and filled fast (often read as urgency); a block is a single large, often negotiated print (often planned or hedging).
Do you publish live flow or trade alerts?
No. This site is educational only. Our Unusual Activity page lists delayed public exchange data that meets a simple volume-vs-open-interest rule — it is not a pick list, and we don't send alerts or sell signals.
Where can I learn the official risks of options?
Read the Options Clearing Corporation's 'Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options' and your broker's options agreement before trading.
Is this financial advice?
No. Everything here is general education. Consider speaking with a licensed financial professional about your situation.