Apple Stock Rally: Massive Volume in Call Options

The Options Insider
The Options InsiderFeb 18, 2026

Why It Matters

Surging call-option volume can amplify near-term volatility and push stock prices, reflecting speculative optimism or hedging ahead of catalysts; traders should watch expiring strikes for potential price pressure or rapid reversals.

Summary

Apple jumped about 3.2% to close at $263.88, trimming its year-to-date loss to roughly 2.6% after a volatile start to the year. The rally coincided with extremely heavy options activity—around 1.2 million contracts traded—centered on the $265 call, which averaged $1.14 and expires tomorrow. Intraday the stock reached $266.25, putting those near-term calls briefly about $1.30 in the money. Market commentators flagged the burst of call buying as a notable driver of today’s move and a sign of heightened short-term speculation.

Original Description

Is the "Fruit Company" finally back in the green? 🍎📈
In this clip from The Hot Options Report, Mark Longo breaks down a wild session for Apple (AAPL). After a rollercoaster start to the year, Apple shares surged over three percent, erasing a significant portion of its year-to-date losses.
We take a deep dive into the "Hot Option" of the day: the Calls. With over a million contracts hitting the tape, we look at how these options swung from being deep in-the-money during the session to expiring just on the edge.
Listen to the full episode for more on Nvidia, Tesla, and the rest of the Top Ten: https://bit.ly/4qDw5gl
Run your own institutional-grade reports: TheHotOptionsReport.com
#AppleStock #AAPL #OptionsTrading #StockMarket #Investing #TechStocks #AppleNews

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