What is Barrier Options?

Option contracts that remain dormant until a trigger point (the barrier price) is reached, at which point the call or put option is activated, and results either in a long or short options position, or in the automatic exercise of an options position.One example is an up-and-in call. Assume an exercise price of $50 and a barrier price of $53. If the stock stays below $53, the call option cannot be exercised. If the stock price reaches the $53 barrier price, the holder then has a call option on the shares at $50. These are exotic options.