Can I order a call option while the market is closed?

Asked 5 years ago

I want to implement a CCIV options trading strategy, so I ordered an option yesterday while the market was closed, but it did not activate when the market reopened. I thought it would automatically be activated when the market opens. Should I rather wait for the market to open before putting a trading strategy in place?

Option activation issues Trgovanje opcijama

Andia Rispah Igobwa

Sunday, October 24, 2021

You can only trade options during regular hours i.e Monday to Friday, 9:30 am to 4:00 pm.
But you can trade after hours to lock in gains or hedge using equities based on expected news. Also, because of inherent risks, you’re safe with regular trading hours which offer better liquidity and more efficient markets. 

Andrew Moran

Tuesday, October 26, 2021

For the most part, you cannot order a call option outside of trading hours. Therefore, you will need to execute most options on U.S. stocks between 9:30 a.m. EST and 4 p.m. EST. Once the closing bell has been rung, your options are frozen, although there are cases where you can trade options in pre-market and after-hours trading.
That said, you are better off participating during market hours to access greater liquidity.