Alpaca Launches Live Trading for Index Options via Trading API

Alpaca has launched live trading for index options through its Trading API and dashboard, expanding on its earlier paper-trading availability for products including SPX, SPXW, VIX, VIXW, DJX, and XSP. Index options use cash settlement and European-style exercise, meaning contracts do not result in share delivery and cannot be exercised or assigned before expiration; certain broad-based products may also qualify for Section 1256 tax treatment. The company advises traders to account for differences between simulated and live execution, AM-settlement timing, expiration-day order cutoffs, unavailable index market data, and product-specific exchange, regulatory, and $0.50-per-contract commission fees. Alpaca emphasizes that options trading carries substantial risk, paper trading does not reflect actual market conditions, tax treatment depends on individual circumstances, and users should consult its trading guide, documentation, fee schedule, and relevant disclosures before trading.

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