We derive a general framework for collateral risk control determination for central bank's open market operations. This framework allows us to determine the schedule of haircuts consistent with the risk tolerated by the central bank while at the same time reducing the possibility of arbitrage...

We investigate the influence of various variables on credit default swap transaction data. Credit derivatives are arguably a superior proxy to credit risk than bond spreads. The variables considered include fixed-income as well as equity markets data. We thus provide an international analysis of...

This paper explores the structure of optimal investment strategies using stochastic programming and duality theory in investment portfolios containing options for a hedge fund manager who attempts to beat a benchmark. Explicit optimal conditions for option investments are obtained for several...

This paper presents a theoretical study of how incentives affect hedge fund risk and returns and an empirical study of the performance of a large group of operating hedge funds. Most hedge fund managers receive a flat fee plus a share of the returns above a certain benchmark. We investigate how...

In this study we analyze the performance persistence of hedge funds over different time horizons. Using a non-parametric test, we first observe that the relative value and the specialist credit strategies contain the highest proportion of outperforming mangers. Furthermore, there is no evidence...

We use an expected utility framework to integrate the hedge funds survival uncertainty into an asset allocation optimizartion model. The addition of investment constraints complicates the resolution of the optimal allocation problem. It is solved using a genetic algorithm that mimics the...

In this paper we study the hedging of derivatives in illiquid markets. More specifically we consider a model where the implementation of a hedging strategy affects the price of the underlying security. Following earlier work we characterize perfect hedging strategies by a nonlinear version of...

Mechanismen und Einsatz von Hedge Funds als Anlageinstrument werden seit längerem sowohl in der Theorei wie auch in der Praxis kontrovers diskutiert. Einerseits werden die Risiken von Hedge Funds als Argument gegen deren Einsatz aufgeführt und andererseits die statistischen Charakteristiken...

Natural catastrophes attract regularly the attention of media and have become a source of public concern. From a financial viewpoint, natural catastrophes represent idiosyncratic risks,diversifiable at the world level. But for reasons analyzed in this pap er reinsurance markets are unable to...

In June 2003 Swiss banks held over CHF 500 billion in mortgages. This important segment accounts for about 63% of all loan portfolios of Swiss banks. Since default insurance is not common in Switzerland, the corresponding risks are a severe threat for the health of the financial system. We...