Does options improve the information absorption? Evidence from the introduction of weekly index options

Abstract

This paper empirically examines the effect of weekly options introduction on the benchmark index of Indian stock market, NIFTY50. The paper evaluates the possible stabilizing or destabilizing nature of impact on underlying volatility focusing on the relation between information and volatility using GARCH framework. The results indicate that the onset of weekly index options has improved the information assimilation and reduced the persistence of old information on volatility. Further, similar changes are not evident on a control index, NIFTY NEXT50. Overall, the results indicate an increase in market efficiency with weekly index options trading.