Options give you Options with Scott Phillips of Lavaca Capital

Options give you Options with Scott Phillips of Lavaca Capital

Author: RCM Alternatives February 27, 2025 Duration: 49:07

In this episode, Jeff Malec sits down with Scott Phillips, the CIO of Lavaca Capital, to discuss the firm's journey in the world of options trading. Scott shares his personal background, from his start as an auditor of energy derivatives at KPMG to founding Lavaca Capital and navigating the complexities of options strategies. 

The conversation covers Lavaca Capital's evolution, from their initial focus on simple option structures to the expansion into more complex portfolios and the eventual return to simpler expressions. Scott provides insights into the challenges of managing option books, the importance of discretionary overrides, and the impact of the growing options ETF space.

Scott and Jeff explore the misconceptions and pitfalls in the options market, the need for better education and simplification of concepts, and the potential for future market disruptions. They also discuss the firm's customized solutions for clients, the current market environment, and the lessons learned from historical market events.


00:00-01:01=Intro

01:02-08:40= Auditor to Trader, A Rare Bird, & Misconceptions of Options

08:41-20:31= Complexity, Hedging, and Customized Option Strategies

20:32-30:36=Current Strategies, Market Environment, and Systematic vs. Discretionary 

30:37-35:42=Lessons from Historical Market Events and Looking Ahead

35:43-43:13=Managing Options in Volatile Markets

43:14-49:07=Back in Time, Texas, and the Options Capital of the World


From the Episode:
The VIX Index and Muted Volatility in 2022RCM: The Dummies Guide to Option GreeksFollow along with Scott and Lavaca Capital on LinkedIn and check out their website for more information at lavacacapital.com


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For investors looking beyond the traditional stock and bond markets, The Derivative offers a deep and practical exploration of the alternative investment landscape. Hosted by RCM Managing Partner Jeff Malec, this podcast demystifies complex strategies and brings listeners directly into conversations with the hedge fund managers and specialized investors who navigate these unique asset classes. Each episode breaks down the mechanics, risks, and opportunities behind non-traditional investments, from managed futures and private equity to niche market strategies. The discussions are grounded in real-world analysis, moving beyond theory to examine what actually drives performance and strategy in this dynamic corner of finance. By focusing on the people and ideas shaping the field, The Derivative provides an insider's perspective that is both educational and actionable. Listeners gain a clearer understanding of portfolio diversification and the tactical approaches used by professional fund managers. This podcast serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to comprehend the broader, often opaque world of alternatives, delivered through straightforward dialogue and expert commentary. Tune in for a focused and insightful ride through the strategies that define alternative investing.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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