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Expected Move Calculator

Calculate the expected move and ±1 sigma price range to expiry from spot, volatility and days — or approximate it from an at-the-money straddle price.

Calculate from
%

Expected move (±1σ)

± $5.73

Lower bound
$94.27
Upper bound
$105.73
% move
5.73%

±1σ ≈ a 68% chance of finishing within this range by expiry.

How this is calculated

The expected move to expiry is one standard deviation of the underlying's price:

EM = S × σ × √T, with the range S ± EM and % move = EM ÷ S.

There is roughly a 68% chance the price finishes within ±1σ. If you prefer, switch to the straddle method, which approximates EM ≈ 0.85 × the ATM straddle price.

Frequently asked questions

How is the expected move calculated?
Expected move ≈ spot × volatility × √(time in years). The price has roughly a 68% chance of finishing within ±1 standard deviation of spot.
Can I use a straddle price instead?
Yes. A common approximation is expected move ≈ 0.85 × the at-the-money straddle price for the same expiry.

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