Intrinsic Value
Intrinsic value represents the portion of an option's premium that is derived from the current difference between the underlying asset price and the strike price. For a call option, it is the amount by which the asset price exceeds the strike price.
For a put option, it is the amount by which the strike price exceeds the asset price. If the option is out-of-the-money, its intrinsic value is zero.
Intrinsic value is the immediate value that would be realized if the option were exercised today. It is distinct from time value, which represents the potential for the option to increase in value before expiration.
The total premium of an option is the sum of its intrinsic value and its time value. Understanding intrinsic value is essential for evaluating the profitability of an option trade and for making decisions about exercise or assignment.
It provides a clear measure of the current economic worth of the contract based on existing market conditions.