Open Interest Skew Metrics

Skew

Open interest skew metrics, within cryptocurrency options trading, quantify the disparity in implied volatilities across different strike prices for options expiring on the same date. This deviation from a flat volatility surface reveals market expectations regarding future price movements, reflecting a consensus view on potential upside or downside risks. Analyzing the shape of this skew provides insights into directional biases, such as a steeper skew indicating heightened demand for downside protection, a common feature in risk-averse markets. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for informed options pricing, hedging strategies, and assessing overall market sentiment.