What is an options sweep order?

Short answer

An options sweep is a large order that a broker splits across multiple exchanges at once to fill as quickly as possible, often paying the ask. Because the buyer chose speed over price, traders read big sweeps as a sign of urgency — though the trade may still be a hedge.

Unusual options activity, live

As of Oct 16, 7:49 PM ET

Source · Rebel Intelligence. A large order can be a hedge, not a bet.

Sweep vs block

Sweep: many fills across exchanges in a split second, usually aggressive.
Block: one large negotiated trade, often between institutions, at a single price.
Split: a large order filled in pieces over time on one venue.

What makes a sweep worth a look

Paid at or above the ask (buyer-initiated).
Volume larger than existing open interest (a new position).
Short-dated, out-of-the-money strikes ahead of a catalyst.
Repeated sweeps in the same direction across the day.

Common questions

Are options sweeps bullish?

A call sweep at the ask leans bullish and a put sweep at the ask leans bearish, but either can be part of a hedge or a spread. Size and context matter.

Should I copy sweep trades?

Sweeps are information, not instructions. The trader may have other positions you cannot see. Educational only, not advice.

Go deeper with Rebel Intel

Show me today's biggest call sweeps Any large put sweeps in SPY today?What are whales doing in NVDA today?

Educational only, not investment advice. Options involve risk and are not suitable for all investors. See how Intel is reviewed.