Max Pain

Definition ∞ Max Pain refers to the strike price at which the greatest number of open options contracts will expire worthless. This theoretical price point is often used by options traders to anticipate market movements. It represents the price that would cause maximum financial loss for options buyers.
Context ∞ In crypto options markets, the concept of Max Pain is frequently cited in analytical reports and news as a potential indicator of short-term price action. Traders observe the Max Pain level for Bitcoin or Ethereum options to gauge market sentiment and potential price magnet effects near expiration dates. Its influence on actual price movements remains a subject of ongoing debate among analysts.