WMT Options Signal Bullish Momentum: Key Strikes and Trade Setups for Dec 12–19 Expirations

• WMT trades at $112.96, down 1.87% from $115.11, with intraday lows near $112.30
• Options data shows heavy call open interest at $115 (Dec 19) and puts at $92.5 (Dec 19)
• Analysts project $119 price target; Q3 earnings beat and e-commerce bets drive optimism

Here’s the thing: WMT’s options market is screaming bullish—but with a twist. While the stock dips today, the call/put open interest ratio and technicals suggest a strong case for a rebound. Let’s break it down.

Bullish Calls vs. Defensive Puts: What the Options Data Reveals

The options chain tells a story of conviction. For the Dec 12 expiration, calls at $114 ($2,714 OI) and $120 ($2,681 OI) dominate, while puts at $99 ($8,160 OI) and $91 ($7,076 OI) hint at downside concerns. But the real action is in the Dec 19 chain: calls at $115 ($29,952 OI) dwarf all others, and puts at $92.5 ($11,320 OI) act as a safety net. This suggests institutional players are hedging a rally while capping losses. The put/call ratio for open interest (0.97) leans slightly bearish, but the sheer volume in calls at $115 implies a target price is in play.

Why Newsflow and Options Sentiment Are Aligned

Walmart’s Q3 beat, e-commerce expansion, and $350M milk facility open just days ago? That’s not noise. Analysts love the stock’s "Strong Buy" rating and $119 price target, and the options data mirrors this. The $115 call OI surge aligns with analyst upgrades—like Piper Sandler’s $123 target. But here’s the catch: rising logistics costs and insider sales ($16.6M in 90 days) mean the rally isn’t a sure thing. Still, the balance of power tilts toward bulls.

Actionable Trade Ideas: Calls, Puts, and Price Levels

For options traders: WMT20251219C115 is the standout. With 29,952 contracts open, this strike acts as a magnet. Buy it if WMT holds above $112.30 (intraday low). Target: $117+ by Dec 19. For downside protection, WMT20251219P106 offers a floor near $106.66 (middle Bollinger Band).

Stock traders: Consider entries near $102.35–102.64 (30D support) with a stop below $96.90 (lower Bollinger). If WMT breaks $117 (upper Bollinger), re-evaluate for a tighter stop.

Volatility on the Horizon: Balancing Risk and Reward

WMT isn’t a straight-line trade. The RSI at 77 hints at overbought territory, and the 200D MA ($98.23) is a long-term floor. But with e-commerce bets and analyst optimism, the Dec 19 options expiry could be a catalyst. Play it like a chess game: use the $115 call for upside, the $106 put for defense, and watch the $112.30 level like a hawk.

Bottom line: WMT’s options and fundamentals are in sync. The stock has momentum, but don’t ignore the risks. Position yourself to ride the rally—or hedge if the dip gets too greedy.