DeltaShift

For wealth managers

Parametric’s DeltaShift is a managed call-options-writing strategy that can be used in conjunction with single stocks and equity indexes. DeltaShift seeks to dampen volatility while enhancing equity portfolio return by capturing the volatility risk premium (VRP).

DeltaShift is most often implemented as an overlay without the need to adjust equity holdings or manager allocations. When combined with the underlying equity exposure, DeltaShift exhibits a long-term average beta of approximately 0.9. It is designed to provide a buffer against downside risk while still maintaining some upside participation in strong up markets.

Investing in an options strategy involves risk. All investments are subject to loss. Learn more.

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Stock DeltaShift

For investors with a concentrated stock position, this strategy seeks to increase total return while reducing the numbers of shares sold and maintaining as much upside participation as possible.

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Portfolio DeltaShift

This index options overlay strategy can be implemented in conjunction with diversified equity portfolios or index-based strategies to help enhance total return and reduce portfolio volatility.

The effectiveness of the option strategy depends on a general imbalance of natural buyers over natural sellers of index options. This imbalance could decrease or be eliminated, which could have an adverse effect. A decision as to whether, when and how to use options involves the exercise of skill and judgment, and even a well-conceived and well-executed options programs may be adversely affected by market behavior or unexpected events. Successful options strategies may require the anticipation of future movements in securities prices, interest rates and other economic factors. No assurances can be given that the judgment of Parametric in this respect will be correct.

Options are not suitable for all investors and carry additional risks. Investors must ensure that they have read and understood the current options risk disclosure document before entering into any options transactions. In addition, investors should consult with a tax, legal or financial advisor prior to contemplating any derivative transactions. The options risk disclosure document can be accessed at the following web address: https://www.theocc.com/Company-Information/Documents-and-Archives/Options-Disclosure-Document.

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Rules-based risk mitigation

What happens when a stock appreciates sharply?

Traditional call writing means receiving an increased yield in exchange for giving away upside (being capped at a target level).
Unlike traditional covered call writing, a key goal of DeltaShift is to maintain substantial (but not all) upside participation during times of sharp appreciation.

During these times:

The total value of the account will likely continue to appreciate (not be capped), but it may underperform the index itself.
We expect some share sales at these appreciated prices—though share sales may be avoided, in certain cases, by cash contributions to finance the repurchase of the in-the-money options.

Intended benefits of DeltaShift

Flexible implementation

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DeltaShift may be implemented either as a fully funded strategy or as an overlay across a range of underlying portfolios, including active equities, index funds, ETFs, or single stocks.

Attractive risk-return profile

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DeltaShift seeks to enhance returns, generate income, and reduce volatility in most market environments.

A diversifying premium

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Options prices contain a volatility risk premium (VRP) paid by options buyers to option sellers. A covered call program can capture the VRP by selling options without introducing leverage.

Improved liquidity

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DeltaShift aims to generate excess cash during down markets that may serve as a cash flow hedge in periods of market stress.

There is no guarantee that the strategy will be successful. Investing in an options strategy involves risk. All investments are subject to loss.

Why choose Parametric?

$567Bn+

Total firm AUM

$18Bn+

VRP solutions AUM

30+

Years of firm experience

As of 3/31/2025

MORE WAYS TO INVEST

Volatility Risk Premium

Parametric's volatility risk premium (VRP) solutions are strategies that seek to benefit from the VRP, a distinct and diversifying risk premium that options buyers pay to options sellers. We’ve historically observed that this premium can be a persistent source of return, better positioning your clients’ portfolios to weather market volatility over a full market cycle and improve overall performance.

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