In recent years, with the continuous expansion of option products, more and more investors have the idea of investing in options. When we see options, we will unconsciously think of futures. There seems to be only one word difference between futures and options, but there is a big difference in fact. So what's the difference between stock index futures and options?

What is the difference between stock index futures and options?

The main difference between them lies in their different forms. Stock index futures are also a kind of "goods", but they will be delivered in the future. And option is a kind of "right". The specific differences are mainly reflected in these aspects:

1 The rights and obligations of both parties in stock index futures are equal; The option buyer is the party that has the right, and the seller is the party that needs to perform the obligation.

2. The risks and benefits of both parties in stock index futures trading are equal; Option buyers have unlimited returns and limited risks, while sellers do the opposite.

Both sides of stock index futures trading need to pay margin; The option only requires the seller to pay a deposit.