What is a call option?

A call option is defined as a contract that grants the holder the right, but not the obligation, to purchase an underlying asset at a predetermined price, known as the strike price, within a specified timeframe. This financial instrument is typically utilized by investors when they anticipate that the price of the underlying asset will increase. By purchasing a call option, the investor can benefit from the potential rise in the asset's price without needing to invest the full amount to buy the asset outright.

The value of a call option increases as the price of the underlying asset rises above the strike price, allowing the holder the opportunity to buy the asset at a lower price than the current market value, thereby maximizing potential profit.

Other choices involve incorrect definitions. For instance, options related to selling, exchanging fixed-income securities, or hedging against risks do not capture the essence of what a call option is. A call option specifically focuses on the right to buy rather than sell, and while it can be part of a hedging strategy, that is not its primary purpose or defining characteristic.