A surge of unusual options trading for Rivian Automotive (NASDAQ:RIVN) indicates that major financial players are keenly focused on the electric vehicle company's future. Data collected from public records suggests a diverse sentiment among these influential investors, with a slight majority expressing bearish views on Rivian's stock performance.
Details of Recent Market Movements in Rivian Options
On December 23, 2025, a review of options trading activity revealed 19 exceptional options trades related to Rivian Automotive, signaling intense interest from institutional investors. While the specific identities of these investors remain undisclosed, such substantial activity often precedes significant shifts in a stock's valuation. The overall sentiment among these large investors is somewhat divided; approximately 36% show a bullish outlook, while 52% appear to be bearish. A breakdown of the trades indicates that six put options were executed, amounting to $345,104, alongside 13 call options totaling $779,185.
Based on these recent transactions, prominent market participants are forecasting a price range for Rivian Automotive between $12.0 and $40.0 over the coming three months. This forecast is a critical insight derived from the collective trading behaviors observed. Further examination of volume and open interest provides additional context regarding the liquidity and investor interest across various strike prices for Rivian's options over the past 30 days.
Key options trades highlighted include a bullish put for RIVN expiring in February 2026 at a strike price of $20.00, valued at $180.1K. Conversely, several bearish call trades were noted, including one expiring in January 2027 at a $35.00 strike price for $157.5K, and another in December 2027 at $37.00 for $103.0K. A significant bearish sweep call trade expiring in January 2028 at a $12.00 strike price was also observed, totaling $96.7K. Additionally, a bullish call expiring in June 2026 at a $17.00 strike price represented a trade of $63.5K.
Rivian, known for its battery-electric vehicles including luxury trucks, full-size SUVs, and delivery vans, also partners with Volkswagen in developing electronic control units. The company plans to introduce a midsize SUV in 2026, building on its nearly 52,000 deliveries in 2024, and is actively developing autonomous driving software. Currently, Rivian's stock trades at $20.86, reflecting a 4.07% decrease, with a trading volume of 10,789,450. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) suggests a neutral market position. Analysts have offered an average target price of $20.2, with ratings ranging from 'Buy' (Needham) to 'Underweight' (Morgan Stanley), illustrating the varied expert opinions on Rivian's future performance.
The intensive options activity surrounding Rivian Automotive serves as a powerful reminder of the sophisticated strategies employed by major investors. The mixed, yet predominantly bearish, sentiment among these market whales underscores the inherent risks and potential rewards in options trading. For ordinary investors, this situation highlights the critical importance of diligent research, understanding various market indicators, and carefully managing risk when considering investments in dynamic sectors like electric vehicles. Observing such 'smart money' movements can provide valuable insights, but ultimately, informed decisions grounded in comprehensive analysis are paramount to navigating the complexities of the stock market.
