The “Vol Crush” Play - Profit from elevated IV with low realized volatility.

Overview

Attribute Value
Environment Positive Gamma
Market Dynamic IV elevated, realized vol expected to be low
Volatility High IV (>15) but low expected realized vol
Primary Goal Capture vega crush + theta decay
Profit Target 0 DTE straddle decay
Max Loss Defined by 30 DTE strangle (insurance)

Structure

0 DTE Straddle (Income)

  • Sell 0 DTE ATM Call
  • Sell 0 DTE ATM Put

30 DTE Strangle (Insurance)

  • Buy 30 DTE Call at the +Expected Move
  • Buy 30 DTE Put at the -Expected Move

Entry Criteria

  • IV is elevated (straddle credit is rich)
  • Realized volatility expected to be low
  • Price expected to stay within 0 DTE expected move
  • 30 DTE strangle placed at the expected move levels

Exit Rules

Profit Target

  • Profit from vega crush and theta decay throughout the day
  • Close both positions at end of day

Re-centering Trigger

  • If straddle hits 25% of credit received, re-center the straddle to ATM

End of Day

  • Close all positions at end of day regardless of P&L

Management

  1. Monitor the straddle - If it hits 25% of credit, re-center to current ATM
  2. Leave the 30 DTE strangle alone - It’s your insurance, don’t touch it
  3. Close everything EOD - No overnight risk