From Theory to Practice - October 16, 2025 - How Much Leverage To Use: Long Delta
Update: 2025-10-16
Description
In today's From Theory to Practice, Dr. Jim discusses how much leverage to use in a long delta portfolio, emphasizing a different approach from short delta strategies. Unlike short delta positions where the delta-theta ratio provides protection, long delta positions lack this shield during volatility expansion.
For long delta traders, he recommends using SPY as a reference point to measure leverage. A portfolio with beta-weighted delta equal to its notional value in SPY shares (1X leverage) means you're essentially holding the equivalent of being fully invested in SPY. Most traders settle between 1X-3X leverage, with experienced traders occasionally going as high as 5X-6X.
For long delta traders, he recommends using SPY as a reference point to measure leverage. A portfolio with beta-weighted delta equal to its notional value in SPY shares (1X leverage) means you're essentially holding the equivalent of being fully invested in SPY. Most traders settle between 1X-3X leverage, with experienced traders occasionally going as high as 5X-6X.
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