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How Does the Lack of Obligation Differ from a Futures Contract?

In a futures contract, both the buyer and seller have an obligation to transact the underlying asset at the agreed-upon price on the expiration date. Options, conversely, grant a right to the buyer and an obligation only to the seller, providing asymmetric risk.

Why Is the Loss Limited to the Premium for the Option Buyer?
Why Is the Maximum Loss for an OTM Option Buyer Limited to the Premium Paid?
Why Does Theta Benefit the Option Seller but Harm the Option Buyer?
How Do Options Differ from Futures in Terms of Obligation?