Glossary · Options
Expiration date
The date an option contract ends.
Every option dies at expiration. After that date, an out-of-the-money option is typically worthless, while in-the-money options may be exercised or settled according to the contract’s rules.
Time remaining is a major part of option value (time premium). As expiration approaches, time decay often accelerates — especially for at-the-money options. Choosing weekly vs. monthly expirations is a strategic decision about cost, risk, and how long your thesis needs.
Example
A call expires this Friday. If the stock stays below the strike through expiration, that call usually expires worthless and the buyer loses the premium paid.