Part 5/12:
The Tick Index—which measures call option volumes—hits its highest level ever, with roughly 60% of options on equities giving holders the right to buy stocks. This surge in bullish options activity coincides with increased stock market volatility, as evidenced by swings in the S&P 500 index over the past week. These intraday gyrations suggest traders are positioning for significant moves, either upward or downward.