We use a reflection result to give simple proofs of (well-known) valuation formulas and static hedge portfolio constructions for zero-rebate single-barrier options in the Black-Scholes model. We then illustrate how to extend the ideas to other model types giving (at least) easy-to-program...

We conduct an empirical evaluation of a static super-replicating hedge of barrier options. The hedge is robust to uncertainty about the future skew. Using almost seven years of current data on the DAX, we evaluate the performance of the hedge and compare it with those of both a dynamic and a...

In this paper we capture the implied distribution from option market data using a non-recombining (binary) tree, allowing the local volatility to be a function of the underlying asset and of time. The problem under consideration is a non-convex optimization problem with linear constraints. We...

We discuss the application of gradient methods to calibrate mean reverting stochastic volatility models. For this we use formulas based on Girsanov transformations as well as a modification of the Bismut-Elworthy formula to compute the derivatives of certain option prices with respect to the...

We study the valuation of callable barrier reverse convertible contracts written on one or two underlying asset prices. We assume the issuer of the contract can call early redemption at any time during a pre-specified time interval. We identify the optimal redemption policy and show, in the...

We introduce a simple model for the pricing of European-style options when the underlying dividend process is given by a geometric Brownian motion with Markov-modulated coefficients. It turns out that the corresponding stock process is characterized by both stochastic coefficients and jumps....

In this paper we study a correlation-based LIBOR market model with a square-root volatility process. This model captures downward volatility skews through taking negative correlations between forward rates and the multiplier. An approximate pricing formula is developed for swaptions, and the...

A family of generalized driftless uncorrelated SABR-like models are classified according to the dimensions of the symmetry groups of their corresponding backward Kolmogorov equations. This family contains the original uncorrelated SABR models, for arbitrary positive beta, as special cases. New...

The concept of stress levels embedded in S&P500 options is defined and illustrated with explicit constructions. The particular example of a stress function used is MINMAXVAR. Seven joint laws for the top 50 stocks in the index are considered. The first time changes a Gaussian one factor copula....