Using Ticks as Options
In previous post, we covered two important topics:
- Composition of a tick
- Impermanent loss (IL) within a tick
This lesson explores how the payoff structure of a CLAMM tick mirrors that of a short option position, with similar dynamics to short covered call options.
Tick Composition and Impermanent Loss Review
Consider a position of 1 $ETH deposited into a $1,750 ETH/USDC tick:
- Spot Price < $1,750: The position is 100% in $ETH, valued at the current spot price (e.g., at $1,650, the position holds 1 $ETH worth $1,650).
- Spot Price > $1,750: The position is 100% in $USDC, valued exactly at $1,750, regardless of how high the spot price climbs.
This structure results in impermanent loss (IL) when the spot price rises above the tick price, as the position in $USDC no longer reflects the full value in $ETH terms.
Comparing Impermanent Loss to Options
Impermanent loss in CLAMMs closely resembles the payoff structure of a short covered call option. In this scenario, the option writer earns a premium but must pay the difference between the spot and strike prices if the spot price exceeds the strike price at settlement.
For a short covered call on $ETH with a $1,750 strike:
- Spot Price < $1,750: The writer retains 1 $ETH as full collateral.
- Spot Price > $1,750: The writer’s position converts to $USDC, with a value capped at $1,750.
For instance:
- If the spot price is $1,900, the writer holds $1,750 in $USDC, equating to 0.92 $ETH.
- If the spot price is $2,400, the position is worth 0.73 $ETH.
This mirrors the impermanent loss in CLAMMs, as the payoff profile is nearly identical to a short option at the tick price.
Key Takeaway
CLAMM LPs at a specific tick have the same payoff structure as option writers whose strike price matches the tick price. However, as we will explore next, CLAMM LPs often receive less compensation through trading fees than option premiums offer to short option writers, despite bearing similar risk.
In the next lesson, we’ll compare option premiums and LP trading fees to reveal how CLAMM LPs may be under compensated for the risk they assume.
About Stryke
Stryke is a decentralised options protocol that focuses on maximising liquidity and enhancing gains for option buyers while minimising losses for option writers—all in a passive approach.Stryke employs option pools that enable anyone to effortlessly earn yield. The protocol provides value to both option sellers and buyers by ensuring equitable and optimised prices for options at various strike prices and expiries, achieved through our proprietary, cutting-edge option pricing model designed to mirror volatility smiles.
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