Question
Answer and Explanation
A spread of -7 typically indicates a point spread in sports betting or a similar concept in finance or other fields. It means that a particular team or option is favored by 7 points. Let's break it down:
In Sports Betting: When you see a spread of -7, it means that the team with the negative sign is the favorite and must win by more than 7 points for a bet on them to "cover the spread". If a team is favored by -7 and they win by exactly 7, it is often considered a "push" and the wager is refunded. If they win by less than 7, or lose, those betting on the underdog win. Conversely, the underdog is given a positive spread of +7, meaning they can lose by less than 7 points and still "cover the spread" for those betting on them. For example, if the Lakers are listed at -7 against the Bulls, the Lakers need to win by 8 points or more to win the bet. If the final score is Lakers 100 - Bulls 92, the Lakers win but don't cover the spread; if it was Lakers 100 - Bulls 91 they would cover the spread.
In Other Contexts (Finance): While less common, a spread of -7 could refer to differences in values or risks, usually implying that one option is 7 units ahead, superior, or less risky.
In summary, a -7 spread is a way of leveling the playing field and creating a balanced wagering situation, ensuring that betting becomes more nuanced. The favorite team must demonstrate a margin of victory beyond the specific spread for you to win the bet.