What is Triple Witching?

As a novice trader, there are certain terms and phenomena that you’ll likely encounter within your first few months. One such term shrouded in intrigue and speculation is “triple witching”. This event, often associated with market volatility, has a host of theories regarding its impact on the markets. Despite the hype, much of it is simply speculation, but it undeniably ushers in a turbulent period each quarter. Let’s demystify the mystique surrounding triple witching and delve into its true nature.

Unraveling the Enigma of Triple Witching in Trading

At its core, triple witching refers to a week when stock options, stock index futures, and stock index options all expire on the same day. This event transpires four times a year: on the third Friday of March, June, September, and December. If you’re new to trading, this concept might seem elusive. With the advent of single stock futures in 2022, the term “quad witching” also emerged but is comparatively less common. Traders anticipate triple witching weeks due to the heightened market volatility leading up to the last trading hour of the week.

The Witching Hour: A Period of Volatility

But first, let’s address the question: why the association with witchiness?

Certain times of the night, or specific moon phases, have long been linked with the idea of supernatural events, hence terms such as the “witching hour,” “the witching moon,” and so forth. These periods are perceived as unusual times when abnormal things can occur.

The final trading hour on a triple witching day has earned the moniker “the witching hour” due to the atypical happenings during this period—most notably, immense volatility. So, what triggers this surge in volatility as these three types of financial instruments expire?

Stock Options, Index Futures, and Index Options: The Three Witches

Stock options have numerous expiration dates given the expansion of offerings as options trading has evolved over recent years. However, the third Friday of the month, colloquially known as “options expiration” or “Op-Ex,” has been the traditional expiration date. As this practice continues to be widely followed, there tends to be a large number of expiring options on Op-Ex each month. The exercise of these contracts triggers extensive buying and selling in the underlying stocks, often resulting in substantial volume as market makers purchase shares needed as contracts are exercised. The options contracts themselves can see massive volatility as most contract holders aim to close out their contracts before expiration, leading to increased volume and volatility in the days leading up to Op-Ex.

Stock index futures and Stock index options also expire on the third week of March, June, September, and December. While these instruments are unique and complex in their own ways, it’s the simultaneous expiration of these three types of instruments that causes the frenzy. This convergence results in massive buying and selling, often leading to unbelievable volume and volatility, thereby giving rise to the enigmatic term “triple witching.”

Navigating the Triple Witching: A Word of Caution

Triple witching is not a time for green traders to plunge into the fray. Seasoned traders may capitalize on the massive volatility to make significant profits. However, less experienced traders might fare better by steering clear of this period, as it often brings unexpected volatility.

As we are in a triple witching week, remember that Friday from three to four pm is the witching hour. Stay cautious, stay informed, and trade wisely.

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Teah's Photo Team Shot

Teah

Bender is an aggressive, yet disciplined options and futures trader with a primary focus on Technical Analysis.  These skill sets have allowed him the ability to trade ES_F at a very high level while simultaneously trading individual equities.

Bender has been a full-time trader for many years.  His uncanny knack for finding under the radar winners over the years has been exceptional, as has his desire to educate as he navigates the markets.

You will enjoy hearing Bender everyday live in our options room called Roadhouse.

Headshot of Trader Team Bender

Bender

Bender is an aggressive, yet disciplined options and futures trader with a primary focus on Technical Analysis.  These skill sets have allowed him the ability to trade ES_F at a very high level while simultaneously trading individual equities.

Bender has been a full-time trader for many years.  His uncanny knack for finding under the radar winners over the years has been exceptional, as has his desire to educate as he navigates the markets.

You will enjoy hearing Bender everyday live in our options room called Roadhouse.

Photo of Our trader Taylor

Taylor L

Taylor is an options day trader who uses options flow and technical analysis to find actionable trades.  He is comfortable in short term momentum type trades.

Taylor joined BlackBoxStocks as a member in 2018 and never looked back. Blackbox and its community were integral to Taylor’s success.

You can find Taylor live in our options trade room calling out actionable data and trades for the members.

Photo of Jenny one of Our team Traders

Jenny B

Jenny became a Team Trader in 2018 and is the small account specialist at Blackbox.  She looks for plays are appropriate for new members who have just opened accounts. Jenny uses news, options flow, and general market sentiment to find high probability low risk options plays.

You can find her live in the Blackbox Start trade room helping the community build their account balance one trade at a time.

Team Trader for BlackBox KJ

Krysten J

KJ’s background before becoming a full time trader was in digital media management and live production.   She also worked as a test pilot for Sea-doo.

KJ started as a member with Blackboxstocks in 2019, she quickly realized this was a community and platform like no other.  Her passion was a driving force to assist her in becoming a Team Trader in 2022.

KJ loves working on digital media content for Blackbox on multiple social platforms, analyzing the market, and helping educate new traders.

KJ can be found daily in our Blackbox Start chat room, discussing real time money flow that can move the markets.

Team Trader Mel Stone

Mel Stone

Mel is an Options trader and uses money flow as her main indicator.  She monitors and analyzes Dark Pool trading, Options Flow, and Phantom Prints. Mel focuses primarily on intraday trading and swing trading.

Mel has been trading for 5 years and started with the BlackBox team as a trial member in 2019. When she first started trading, she was drawn to what moved the markets and how to track the big money flow through monitoring dark pool and options flow.

You can find Mel broadcasting live on Blackbox every day as she helps members track and monitor money flow and align their own trades with large market participants.

Mike Downey

Mike is an Options and Futures day trader.  He uses Option flow and technical analysis to find trades.  He primarily focuses on intraday trading and scalping of positions.

Mike has been a full-time options trader for 5 years and has found a very consistent method of trading profitably. When he started with Blackbox, he gained knowledge from Team Traders and the BlackBox trading community.

You can find Mike live in the BlackBox Start trade room every day assisting members with trading strategies and finding trades.

Swan Headshot Team Trader

Jason Swan

Jason is an Options trader using a combination of Option Flow and Technical Chart Analysis to find trades.  He focuses primarily on intraday trading, holding a position for a as little a few minutes to a maximum of a few days.

Jason became a member of BlackBoxStocks in 2018 and quickly learned how to trade by using the features on the platform, and the knowledge he gained from the education and community at Blackbox. He is now a Blackbox Team Trader and publishes the Swan Daily Watchlist (#SwanDailyWL) to members providing them with daily trade ideas.

You can find Jason live in the BlackBox Start trade room every day assisting members with trading strategies and navigating the platform.

BlackBox Team Trader Kang

Steven Kang

Kang is an Options trader using technical analysis in his day trading.  He focuses on momentum breaks to the upside and downside.

Kang’s background spans 18+ years in banking and finance. After joining Blackbox in April 2018, he was able to ramp up quickly by leveraging the platform features and the experience of our diverse trading community.

Kang shares his knowledge through his technical analysis daily in our live options trading room.

Understanding the Greeks: OIC

Instructed by Options Industry Council

A deep look into the factors that create options pricing.  An option’s premium has two main components: intrinsic value and time value.

During this free presentation from OICSM, attendees will learn about:

  • Intrinsic Value (calls/puts)
  • Time Value
  • Major factors influencing options premium

*Reminder:  The OIC is a non-profit organization, and the classes are free.  BlackBoxStocks does not charge for OIC classes nor is it directly implied that the OIC classes are included in the value of a BlackBoxStocks Inc membership/subscription.

Access unlimited classes by signing up for BlackBoxStocks today

 

Options Pricing Explained

Instructed by Options Industry Council

A deep look into the factors that create options pricing.  An option’s premium has two main components: intrinsic value and time value.

During this free presentation from OICSM, attendees will learn about:

  • Intrinsic Value (calls/puts)
  • Time Value
  • Major factors influencing options premium

*Reminder:  The OIC is a non-profit organization, and the classes are free.  BlackBoxStocks does not charge for OIC classes nor is it directly implied that the OIC classes are included in the value of a BlackBoxStocks Inc membership/subscription.

Access unlimited classes by signing up for BlackBoxStocks today

 

Implied & Historical Volatility

Instructed by Options Industry Council

With any options strategy, there are two types of volatility to consider — historical and implied. Historical volatility is a measure of how much underlying movement has already transpired, while implied volatility, or IV, is an indication of how much change the market is expecting based on the option’s price.

During this free presentation from OICSM, attendees will learn about:

  • Implied and historical volatility essentials
  • IV rank and percentiles
  • Strategies for both low and high IV situations

*Reminder:  The OIC is a non-profit organization, and the classes are free.  BlackBoxStocks does not charge for OIC classes nor is it directly implied that the OIC classes are included in the value of a BlackBoxStocks Inc membership/subscription.

Access unlimited classes by signing up for BlackBoxStocks today

 

Short Term Options Explained

Instructed by Options Industry Council

While most options have a monthly expiration cycle, investors and traders are discovering the power of Weekly Options, or “Weeklys.” We take a look at the important differences and risks unique to Weeklys Options.

During this free presentation from OICSM, attendees will learn about:

  • What is a Weekly
  • What is a Monthly
  • Advantages/Disadvantages of short term options

*Reminder:  The OIC is a non-profit organization, and the classes are free.  BlackBoxStocks does not charge for OIC classes nor is it directly implied that the OIC classes are included in the value of a BlackBoxStocks Inc membership/subscription.

Access unlimited classes by signing up for BlackBoxStocks today

 

Insights for Options Core Concepts

Instructed by Options Industry Council

This webinar is great for investors that are new options or those that want a recap of options fundamentals.

This video will look at the difference between stock trading and options trading, why investors might choose to use options, and discuss various components of an option

*Reminder:  The OIC is a non-profit organization, and the classes are free.  BlackBoxStocks does not charge for OIC classes nor is it directly implied that the OIC classes are included in the value of a BlackBoxStocks Inc membership/subscription.

Access unlimited classes by signing up for BlackBoxStocks today

 

Options Strategies for Higher Volatility

Instructed by Options Industry Council

In this fast-moving, one-hour seminar, the Options Industry Council analyzes both high and low volatility strategies.

This session focuses on risk, potential payoff and breakeven points. Straddles, strangles, diagonals and credit spreads are a few of the exciting strategies that is covered in this quick, 60-minute session.

*Reminder:  The OIC is a non-profit organization, and the classes are free.  BlackBox Stocks does not charge for OIC classes nor is it directly implied that the OIC classes are included in the value of a BlackBoxStocks Inc membership/subscription.

Access unlimited classes by signing up for BlackBoxStocks today

 

Understanding Options for a Bull & Bear Market

Instructed by Options Industry Council

Bull and bear spreads, which are directional option strategies, could be the right choice for your investing style.

In this webinar, we’ll focus on vertical spreads – taking a look at how they’re constructed, what is the best target price for the underlying as we approach expiration, what risk factors you should consider and, of course, how much can you earn. We’ll also discuss how long to hold these positions.

*Reminder:  The OIC is a non-profit organization, and the classes are free.  BlackBoxStocks does not charge for OIC classes nor is it directly implied that the OIC classes are included in the value of a BlackBoxStocks Inc membership/subscription.

Access unlimited classes by signing up for BlackBoxStocks today

 

Options Adjustments

Instructed by Options Industry Council

Taking an options position can sometimes prove to be the easiest part of the trade process. But what happens next? How do you adjust your position when your opinion changes on the underlying, or when things change in the market? Options Industry Council will take you through five different call adjustment scenarios when the underlying moves up, along with their associated P&L prospects.

*Reminder:  The OIC is a non-profit organization, and the classes are free.  BlackBoxStocks does not charge for OIC classes nor is it directly implied that the OIC classes are included in the value of a BlackBoxStocks Inc membership/subscription.

Access unlimited classes by signing up for BlackBoxStocks today

 

The Greeks

Instructed by Options Industry Council

When determining how options may react to a given change in some of the variable pricing inputs, investors turn to the Greeks for guidance. The most commonly used Greeks are Delta, Gamma, Theta, Vega, and Rho.

During this free presentation from OICSM, attendees will learn:

  • What the Greeks are
  • How to use them
  • Trading strategies

*Reminder:  The OIC is a non-profit organization, and the classes are free.  BlackBoxStocks does not charge for OIC classes nor is it directly implied that the OIC classes are included in the value of a BlackBoxStocks Inc membership/subscription.

Access unlimited classes by signing up for BlackBoxStocks today

 

Understanding Options Flow

Instructed by Teresa Arthur

This class is designed for the beginner and advanced trader, alike. Options flow can be confusing to beginners, as there is an abundance of information coming at you in a fast-paced environment.  This class will break down what it is and why it works, before covering the specifics of how we read the data and how to use it to find high probability trades.

This class takes a deep dive into everything related to options flow including:

  • What is options flow
  • Why it works
  • How to read it
  • How to use it to find high probability trades
  • How to set up filters for various trade opportunities
  • Checklist for high probability trades criteria
  • Q&A session

Access unlimited classes by signing up for BlackBoxStocks today

 

BlackBox Trading System - Options

Instructed by Teresa Arthur

This class is a complete in-depth walk-though of the powerful features of the BlackBox platform.

In this class you will learn how to use the following:

  • Options alerts
  • Scanners and data tables
  • charting tools and studies
  • Options Order Flow, Volume, Open Interest (OI), Heat Map, and Watch List features

Access unlimited classes by signing up for BlackBoxStocks today

 

Options Basics

Instructed by Teresa Arthur

This class is designed to introduce you to the fundamental elements of trading Options.

In this class you will learn the following concepts:

  • Trading options
  • Fundamental & technical analysis
  • Support & resistance fundamentals
  • Order types: bid, ask, spread; shorting stocks
  • Risk management; risk/reward ratio; trading strategies; developing a trading plan
  • Brokerage account types; Pattern Day Trader (PDT rules)

Access unlimited classes by signing up for BlackBoxStocks today

 

BlackBox Trading System - Stocks

Instructed by Teresa Arthur

This class is a complete in-depth walk-though of the powerful features of the BlackBox platform.

In this class you will learn how to use the following:

  • Stock alerts
  • Scanners and data tables
  • charting tools and studies
  • real-time, multi-source news feed

Access unlimited classes by signing up for BlackBoxStocks today

 

Technical Analysis 101

Instructed by Steven kang (Thuh Kang)

This class is designed to give members a basic overview of Technical Analysis & how to apply it to market conditions. One can increase profitability and accuracy by developing a greater understanding of technical concepts.

Topics that are covered in this course include:

  • The relationship between price action & volume
  • Using volatility to identify market & trend reversals
  • A familiarization of technical indicators
  • Identifying and trading using chart patterns
  • Support & Resistance
  • Identifying entries and exits for trades

Access unlimited classes by signing up for BlackBoxStocks today

 

Dark Pool Basics

 

Instructed by Mel Stone

The Dark Pool Basics class will provide an overview of the dark pool exchanges as well as highlight the common misconceptions about dark pool trades.  We will take an in-depth walk-through of the BlackBox Stocks dark pool tools and features, as well as how to review dark pool activity in multiple time frames:

Topics discussed include:

  • What are Dark Pools
  • Why is it important
  • How to use Dark Pool data

Access unlimited classes by signing up for BlackBoxStocks today

 

Stock Basics

 

Instructed by Teresa Arthur

This class is designed to introduce you to the fundamental elements of trading.

In this class you will learn the following concepts:

  • Trading stocks
  • The psychology of trading
  • Fundamental & technical analysis
  • Support & resistance fundamentals
  • Order types: bid, ask, spread; shorting stocks
  • Risk management; risk/reward ratio; trading strategies; developing a trading plan
  • Brokerage account types; Pattern Day Trader (PDT rules)

Access unlimited classes by signing up for BlackBoxStocks today

 

Charting 101

 

Instructed by Teresa Arthur

This class is designed to introduce you to the basic concepts in charting financial assets.

In this class you will learn:

  • How to set up a chart
  • How to find Support/Resistance
  • How to read a chart, candles, and studies

Access unlimited classes by signing up for BlackBoxStocks today

 

Intro to the Market

 

Instructed by Maria Chaudhry

Get ready to learn the basics of the Stock Market and investing.

Upon completion of this class, you will learn:

  • What a stock is
  • The importance of capital
  • The function of the stock market
  • How it all works

Access unlimited classes by signing up for BlackBoxStocks today

 

Trading with Swan

 

Instructed by Jason Swan

Start your day with Swan.  This webinar takes place every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.  We encourage you to take it at least once each week to assist you on your learning path to EARNING.  See why Blackboxstocks is the Ultimate Tool for Traders.

This is an interactive Screen share webinar.

  • This LIVE webinar shows you how we use the BlackBox system in our daily routine and trading, and if the setups are there, you will observe us making trades in real time.
  • The webinar starts with a brief overview of the entire platform.
  • Once the market opens, we talk through LIVE option flow and alerts, dissecting and explaining what we see and how to use the data.
  • You are invited to ask questions as they will be answered for you in this LIVE format.

Access unlimited classes by signing up for BlackBoxStocks today

 
Maria Chaudhry -Headshot Photo

Maria Chaudhry

Maria Chaudhry has extensive experience in financial services including 17 years of trading experience. Prior to joining BlackBoxStocks, Maria was a licensed stockbroker. She has worked for firms Charles Schwab, Scottrade, & TD Ameritrade Institutional.

Maria became a member of BlackBoxStocks in October 2016 and quickly became a well-known member of the Blackbox trading community. In 2017, Maria joined the BlackBoxStocks team as a moderator in their online community.

Maria spends her days trading with the BlackBoxStocks community as well educating and mentoring BlackBoxStocks members. In addition, Maria actively promotes Blackbox on multiple social media platforms to showcase the unique proprietary features and benefits of the platform.

Steven Khang (thuh Kang)

With 18+ years in banking and finance, Kang has extensive experience in managing teams, staff development, project management, and client engagement/retention. Kang loves to share all he has learned with others. Kang became a full-time BlackBox Team Trader in 2019 and now shares his knowledge through the Technical Analysis 101 class.  Many members take his class multiple times as they always learn something new.