A Bond Consistent Derivative Fair Value

Abstract

In this paper we present a rigorously motivated pricing equation for derivatives, including cash collateralization schemes, which is consistent with quoted market bond prices. Traditionally, there have been differences in how instruments with similar cash flow structures have been priced if their definition falls under that of a financial derivative versus if they correspond to bonds, leading to possibilities such as funding through derivatives transactions. Furthermore, the problem has not been solved with the recent introduction of Funding Valuation Adjustments in derivatives pricing, and in some cases has even been made worse.In contrast, our proposed equation is not only consistent with fixed income assets and liabilities, but is also symmetric, implying a well-defined exit price, independent of the entity performing the valuation. Also, we provide some practical proxies, such as first-order approximations or basing calculations of CVA and DVA on bond curves, rather than Credit Default Swaps.