How PCR Ratio Helps a Trader in the Share Market
Decode Market Sentiment with PCR Ratio

In the share market, understanding the traders’ behavioural sentiment is crucial for making prudent trading decisions. One of the strongest indicators that helps traders evaluate the general feeling in the market is the Put Call Ratio (PCR). This ratio is beneficial whether you are trading individual stocks or indices like Nifty because, when used correctly, it can help in both short-term and medium-term plans. In this piece, we will discuss the significance of the PCR ratio, particularly Nifty PCR, in the life of a trader.
What is PCR Ratio?
The Put Call Ratio (PCR) compares the volume or open interest of put options to call options. PCR Ratio = Volume of Put Options / Volume of Call Options
The ratio also indicates the mindset of traders in regard to whether they would buy puts (bearish bets) or calls (bullish bets). The Nifty put call ratio measures this sentiment concerning the Nifty index.
How PCR Ratio Helps Traders
Gauging Market Sentiment
The PCR ratio is reflective of the attitudes among traders in the options market while actively engaged in making trades on the options.
A bearish outlook is depicted by a high PCR ratio (more puts than calls). A low PCR suggests a bullish outlook (more calls than puts).
Through the Nifty PCR ratio, traders can gauge the behaviour of broader market participants and make their trades based on that.
A Contrarian Indicator For Reversal Signals
As a part of this group of traders, I know many who work with the use of the PCR ratio as a contrarian indicator.
A very high PCR would indicate far too much pessimism and a market bounce is likely to happen soon.
A very low PCR would suggest that there is overconfidence in the current trend and a price correction would be coming soon.
This strategy of reversal is more effective in sideways or range-bound markets.
Confirmation of a Short-term Trend Base
With other indicators of technical analysis, the Nifty put call ratio can confirm short-term trends with greater accuracy.
For instance, in case a trader notices a breakout on the Nifty chart, along with a declining Nifty PCR (more calls being bought), then the bullish trend would be confirmed and the trader's confidence to enter the trade would be stronger.
Managing Portfolio Risk
With regards to the PCR, understanding market sentiment enables traders to manage risk effectively. When the ratio indicates extreme levels of bearishness, a trader may look to hedge their aggressive long trades.
Insights on Index Trading
For index options traders, the Nifty PCR ratio works wonders. It indicates whether retail and institutional traders are skewed towards buying calls or puts on the Nifty, a benchmark index for India.
Analyzing Nifty PCR
PCR in the vicinity of 1.0 - Neutral sentiment.
PCR above 1.3 – Sentiment is Bearish, but there is a possibility of reversal.
PCR below 0.7 – Sentiment is Bullish, but may be overheated.
Also remember sentiment PCR needs to be corroborated with volume, open interest, and price movement for better precision.
In Summary
The Put Call Ratio (PCR) provides a wealth of information regarding market sentiment, particularly with key indices like Nifty. Traders can effectively employ the PCR Ratio to optimise their decisions, identify better reversal prospects and sharpen their strategy. Nonetheless, the PCR should not stand alone as the sole pivot. Its efficacy, like a well-stitched garment, lies with the technical charts, news flow, and prevailing trends of the market.
A useful way to gain an edge over competitors in volatile stock environments is mastering the Nifty put call ratio.
About the Creator
Amit Pandey
The Put Call Ratio shows market sentiment through options data, types of candlesticks reveal price action, the MMI Index tracks market emotions, and chart patterns help predict price trends.




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