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SIE: Options
SIE practice questionmediumOptions — American vs European Style

What is the key difference between American-style and European-style options?

  1. AAmerican options can be exercised at any time before expiration; European options can only be exercised at expiration✓ Correct answer
  2. BAmerican options can only be traded on U.S. exchanges
  3. CEuropean options are always more expensive than American options
  4. DAmerican options have longer expiration periods than European options
Explanation

Why AAmerican options can be exercised at any time before expiration; European options can only be exercised at expiration

American-style options can be exercised at any time up to and including the expiration date. European-style options can ONLY be exercised at expiration. Most equity options are American-style; most index options are European-style. The names refer to exercise style, not geography (A is wrong). American options are generally worth at least as much as European options due to the early exercise feature.

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