Intel (INTC) stock has seen a 31% increase year-to-date and a 115% gain over the past 52 weeks. Despite this, some skepticism remains due to a 22% decline over the past five years. Smart money is not heavily insuring against downside risk, with bullish options flow and limited urgency for downside protection.

The Black-Scholes-derived Expected Move calculator predicts Intel stock may land between $42.08 and $54.50 for the March 20 expiration date. This range represents one standard deviation away from the spot price, with a 68% probability of the stock trading within this range. Retail traders may consider a bull call spread strategy.

Analyzing seasonal returns, Intel generally shows an upward bias for the March 20 expiration date, with a potential upside of around 4%. A $49/50 bull call spread expiring March 20 could be an efficient options strategy. This spread involves buying the $49 call and selling the $50 call, with a net debit paid of $45 and a maximum profit of $55 at expiration.

Read more at Barchart: Despite a Blistering Start to the New Year, the Smart Money is Still Riding with Intel (INTC) Stock