Volatility and correlation in the pricing of equity, FX, and interest-rate options - Riccardo Rebonato

"What is at stake is not some obscure academic point, but lies at the very heart of option pricing, and will inform the users' decisions insofar as their choice of pricing model is concerned." From the Introduction In his new book, Riccardo Rebonato introduces financial professionals to the practical and subtle use of the concepts of volatility (the degree of randomness in a price movement) and correlation (the relationship between the changes in value of two financial assets) in the pricing of complex options. By explaining this approach in clear and accessible terms, the author provides traders, risk managers, financial professionals and students with the tools to undertake an effective investigation of option pricing models both at the qualitative and the quantitative level. "In this book Dr Rebonato brings his penetrating eye to bear on option pricing and hedging. In his usual intuitive style he critically examines a variety of approaches to equity, currency and interest–rate options. The book is full of practical insights that reflect a wealth of experience in applying these models. The book is a 'must read' for those who already know the basics of options and are looking for an edge in applying the more sophisticated approaches that have recently been developed." Professor Ian Cooper, London Business School "This book is a blend of the theoretical, the practical, and the abstract, but always staying in contact with reality. I don't agree with everything in it, but it taught me a thing or two. Read it carefully and thoroughly." Paul Wilmott, author of Derivatives "Volatility and correlation are at the very core of all option pricing and hedging. In this book, Riccardo Rebonato presents the subject in his characteristically elegant and simple fashion. He rightly emphasises the financial and economic assumptions which underpin the models, and gives salutary warnings against models which overfit the current structure of prices but which perform poorly in predicting future behaviour. A rare combination of intellectual insight and practical common sense." Anthony Neuberger, Associate Professor, Institute of Finance and Accounting, London Business School