Every stock option has four predetermined specifications:

1. The underlying asset.

2. The type of stock option (call or put).

3. The exercise price (or the strike price).

4. The expiration date (or exercise date).

These four specification are listed in David’s letter from his father:

1. The underlying asset is the asset received — if, and when, the option is exercised. In this case, the underlying asset is an ounce of gold.

2. The type of option: The type of option in the letter is a call option.

3. The exercise price is the price paid for the underlying asset if the option is exercised. David must pay $400 for an ounce of gold.

4. The expiration date is the date on which the option can be exercised. If David does not exercise his option on March 31, 2009, then the option becomes worthless.

    

    The Name of an Option

   The name of an option has, four parts, and each of these parts is associated with one of the specifications. Below are the specifications of David’s call option:

   The put option that David received from his mother:

   Base Asset	Option Type	Exercise Price	Expiration Date
   Gold Ounce	Call	$ 400	3.31.09

   Base Asset	Option Type	Exercise Price	Expiration Date
   Gold Ounce	Put	$ 400	3.31.09