Retrieve a Structured Options Chain with Greeks

The fn_00987 (QM_GetOptionChainStructuredDynamic) function provides a straightforward way to download an entire options chain for a given ticker symbol directly into Excel. It automatically includes calls, puts, strikes, Greeks (Delta, Gamma, Theta, Rho, Vega), and more. This helps traders and analysts quickly compare multiple contracts in a single view.

By using this function, you can streamline your options analysis without leaving Excel. It returns the option chain in a “structured” layout, making it easy to read and further manipulate with Excel’s built-in tools (e.g., sorting, filtering, or custom calculations).

Why Use This Function?

• Automatically retrieves both calls and puts for the specified symbol.
• Includes essential Greeks by default (Delta, Gamma, Theta, Rho, Vega).
• Displays in-the-money and out-of-the-money (money = “All”) contracts in one structured table.
• Helps you rapidly evaluate implied volatility, open interest, bid/ask details, and more without extra queries.
• Ideal for building advanced option trading strategies, comparing multiple expirations, or quickly scanning the entire option chain.
• Saves time by printing the results in Excel for further analysis or integration with other MarketXLS functions.

How to Use in Excel

=QM_GetOptionChainStructuredDynamic("SYMBOL")

1. In any cell, enter the formula above, replacing "SYMBOL" with a valid ticker (e.g., "AAPL").
2. Press Enter.
3. MarketXLS will automatically retrieve and print the structured options chain (including calls, puts, and Greeks) into Excel, starting at the cell below.

When you use this function, the system will create a table of data beneath the active cell. Each column represents a different piece of the option contract information, such as strike price, last traded price, bid, ask, implied volatility, open interest, and so forth.

Parameters Explained

• This function only requires one parameter: ? "Symbol" to specify which company’s option chain you want.
• Greeks are automatically fetched.
• Expired contracts are excluded by default.

Example Usage

Basic Examples

1. Single Symbol with Hardcoded Value:
   =QM_GetOptionChainStructuredDynamic("AAPL")
   • Instantly retrieves Apple’s entire option chain (calls and puts), capturing strikes, greeks, open interest, and more.
   • Data prints directly in Excel under your formula cell.

2. Single Symbol via Cell Reference:
   Suppose cell A1 contains "MSFT". In cell A2, type:
   =QM_GetOptionChainStructuredDynamic(A1)
   • Pulls the Microsoft option chain using the value from A1.
   • Useful if you want to change the symbol by updating one cell.

Advanced Scenarios

• Combine with Other Excel Functions: You might use Excel’s built-in calculations on the returned data to filter or highlight certain strikes (e.g., highlight the highest open interest or the best bid/ask spreads).

• Strategy Exploration: If you are deciding on a covered call or protective put strategy, quickly look at different expirations and their Greeks. Then in Excel perform extra calculations to compare potential profit/loss scenarios.

• Multi-Sheet Analysis: Some users fetch multiple chains simultaneously by placing the function in multiple cells for different symbols. Each chain will appear on its own region in the workbook, which can be consolidated if needed.

Common Questions and Troubleshooting

• “I got ‘NA’ or ‘No Data Retrieved’”

• Double-check the symbol spelling. An invalid or delisted ticker returns "NA".
• Ensure your MarketXLS license is active and properly configured.

• “Columns appear out of order”

• The function automatically formats and sequences the chain. If you need a different layout, simply rearrange the columns after the data is fetched.

• “Data overwrote my existing cells”

• The function prints the table starting from one row below the formula cell. Make sure to place the formula where it has enough space below to avoid overwriting.

• “How do I see only calls or only puts?”

• The function retrieves both in a combined table. You can then filter in Excel to show just calls or just puts.

• “Can it show expired contracts?”

• By default, the function sets "inclExpired" to “False.” If you need expired contracts, use a relevant function or parameter. In its current form, fn_00987 does not include them.

Remember:

• Use a single ticker symbol as the parameter.
• Returns a comprehensive data table for the specified symbol’s options chain in Excel.
• Perfect for US market symbols when analyzing calls, puts, and their Greeks side by side.
• A powerful stepping-stone for further customization within Excel—filtering, sorting, or cross-referencing with other worksheets.

By leveraging fn_00987 (QM_GetOptionChainStructuredDynamic), you can dramatically simplify the way you research and plan your options trades directly inside Excel.