The correct answer is C . An option gives its holder a right, but not an obligation , relating to an underlying asset. A call option gives the holder the right to buy the underlying asset at the predetermined exercise or strike price. A put option gives the holder the right to sell the underlying asset at the strike price. CIRO states this distinction directly: a call provides the right to buy, while a put provides the right to sell, at a specified price within the applicable period.
This distinction determines the basic market exposure. A call buyer generally benefits when the underlying asset increases sufficiently above the strike price, whereas a put buyer generally benefits when the underlying falls sufficiently below the strike price, subject in each case to the premium paid and other contractual terms.
A and B reverse the rights associated with calls and puts. D is incorrect because dividend entitlement is not the defining right of a put option. Options concern contractual purchase or sale rights rather than direct shareholder rights.
The CIRE syllabus expressly requires candidates to remember the main characteristics of puts and calls , American- and European-style options, and transactional elements including the underlying interest, premium, strike price and expiry.
Study Guide Reference: CIRE Elements 8.1 and 8.4 — Puts, Calls, Strike Price, Premium and Expiry.
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