Gamma Scalping Risk

Analysis

Gamma scalping risk, within cryptocurrency options and derivatives, arises from the dynamic hedging pressures exerted by options market makers. These entities continuously adjust their delta exposure, buying or selling the underlying asset to maintain neutrality as the asset price fluctuates, and this activity intensifies with proximity to option expiration and heightened volatility. The resultant impact on spot markets can create short-term price distortions, particularly pronounced in less liquid crypto markets, where market maker inventories are comparatively smaller and hedging flows have a disproportionate effect.