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Larger than One Probabilities in Mathematical and Practical Finance

Author

Listed:
  • Mark Burgin

    (Department of Mathematics, University of California, Los Angeles,USA)

  • Gunter Meissner

    (MFE Program, Shidler College of Business, University of Hawaii,USA)

Abstract
Traditionally probability is considered as a function that takes values in the interval [0, 1]. However, researchers found that negative, as well as larger than 1 probabilities could be a useful tool in making financial modeling more exact and flexible. Here we show how larger than 1 probabilities could be handy for financial modeling. First, we define and mathematically rigorously derive the properties of larger than 1 probabilities based on their frequency interpretation. We call these probabilities inflated probabilities because conventional probabilities are never larger than 1. It is transparently demonstrated that inflated probabilities emerge in various real life situations. We then explain how inflated probabilities can be applied to modeling financial options such as Caps and Floors. In trading practice, these options are typically valued in a Black-Scholes-Merton framework, which assumes a lognormal distribution for the price of underlying assets. Since negative values are not defined in the lognormal framework, negative interest rates cannot be modeled. However interest rates have been negative several times in financial practice in the past. We show that applying inflated probabilities to the Black-Scholes-Merton model implies negative interest rates. Hence with this extension, Caps and Floors with negative interest rate can be conveniently modeled closed form.

Suggested Citation

  • Mark Burgin & Gunter Meissner, 2012. "Larger than One Probabilities in Mathematical and Practical Finance," Review of Economics & Finance, Better Advances Press, Canada, vol. 2, pages 1-13, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:bap:journl:120401
    as

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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Robert C. Merton, 2005. "Theory of rational option pricing," World Scientific Book Chapters, in: Sudipto Bhattacharya & George M Constantinides (ed.), Theory Of Valuation, chapter 8, pages 229-288, World Scientific Publishing Co. Pte. Ltd..
    2. Duffie, Darrell & Singleton, Kenneth J, 1999. "Modeling Term Structures of Defaultable Bonds," The Review of Financial Studies, Society for Financial Studies, vol. 12(4), pages 687-720.
    3. Black, Fischer & Scholes, Myron S, 1973. "The Pricing of Options and Corporate Liabilities," Journal of Political Economy, University of Chicago Press, vol. 81(3), pages 637-654, May-June.
    4. Venter, Gary G., 2007. "Generalized Linear Models beyond the Exponential Family with Loss Reserve Applications," ASTIN Bulletin, Cambridge University Press, vol. 37(2), pages 345-364, November.
    5. Black, Fischer, 1976. "The pricing of commodity contracts," Journal of Financial Economics, Elsevier, vol. 3(1-2), pages 167-179.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Interest rate; Caps; Floors; Negative interest rate; Inflated probabilities; Negative probabilities; Black-Scholes-Merton model;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C10 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric and Statistical Methods and Methodology: General - - - General
    • G15 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - International Financial Markets
    • E22 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Consumption, Saving, Production, Employment, and Investment - - - Investment; Capital; Intangible Capital; Capacity
    • E43 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Money and Interest Rates - - - Interest Rates: Determination, Term Structure, and Effects
    • F34 - International Economics - - International Finance - - - International Lending and Debt Problems

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