Intel options trading surges as stock rallies, Cboe volatility drops
Summary
Options traders are increasingly engaged in bullish activities, particularly in technology stocks, as the Nasdaq-100 index experienced its strongest day in six weeks. This surge follows a notable rebound in AI-related stocks, with a preference for upside exposure evident among traders. The Cboe volatility gauge fell to its lowest level in a week after the Federal Reserve raised interest rates for the first time since 2023, prompting elevated demand for options. Intel saw significant trading activity, with over 1.3 million options traded, reflecting its rising stock price and ongoing discussions with SK Hynix about U.S. chip manufacturing. Additionally, competitors like AMD and Crowdstrike also attracted bullish interest, indicating a broader positive sentiment in the tech sector amidst warnings from AI leaders about the need for regulatory oversight.