Are options really becoming a core part of mainstream investing? There are plenty of people who say yes, but you've really got to wonder. My sense is that it remains an arcane niche for motivated self-traders. But the growth curve remains high, and TD Ameritrade has validated the market niche to some extent by announcing a deal to buy online options brokerage Thinkorswim Group, Business Week reports.

The technology in the online options industry has grown more sophisticated apparently, allowing for more complex strategies as well as more core education. Still, if a bear market, as evidenced by low volume, kicks in, the wisdom of the deal might be questioned.

For more:
- here's a Business Week article  

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