Financial Products

Financial Products provides a step-by-step guide to some of the most important ideas in financial mathematics. It describes and explains interest rates discounting arbitrage risk neutral probabilities forward contracts futures bonds FRA and swaps. It shows how to construct both elementary and complex (Libor) zero curves. Options are described illustrated and then priced using the Black Scholes formula and binomial trees. Finally there is a chapter describing default probabilities credit ratings and credit derivatives (CDS TRS CSO and CDO). An important feature of the book is that it explains this range of concepts and techniques in a way that can be understood by those with only a basic understanding of algebra. Many of the calculations are illustrated using Excel spreadsheets as are some of the more complex algebraic processes. This accessible approach makes it an ideal introduction to financial products for undergraduates and those studying for professional financial qualifications.