Ligand Pharmaceuticals (LGND)

LGND trades at $180.99, 9.7% above the near-term max pain of $165 expiring Oct 17, 2025 (12 days). Expect downward pressure as dealers benefit from price declining toward max pain. Max pain is rising across expirations ($115-$165), reflecting growing call interest at higher strikes. High dispersion in max pain levels suggests competing forces and potential volatility.

Max pain for LGND shows an upward trend from 115 to 165, suggesting bullish positioning in longer-dated options. The 37% spread signals divergent expectations across timeframes. Most levels below 180.99 may cap rallies. Weekly expirations influence price 2-3 days before expiry; monthlies throughout their final week.