Journal of Computational Finance

Risk.net

Pricing options on realized variance in the Heston model with jumps in returns and volatility Part II. An approximate distribution of discrete variance

Artur Sepp

ABSTRACT

We analyze the effect of discrete sampling on the valuation of options on the realized variance in the Heston stochastic volatility model. It has been known for some time that, although quadratic variance can serve as an approximation to discrete variance for valuing longer-term options on the realized variance, this approximation underestimates option values for short-term maturities (with maturities up to three months). We propose a method that involves mixing the discrete variance in a lognormal model and the quadratic variance in a stochastic volatility model. This allows us to accurately approximate the distribution of the discrete variance in the Heston model. As a result, we can apply semianalytical Fourier transform methods developed by Sepp for pricing shorter-term options on the realized variance.

Sorry, our subscription options are not loading right now

Please try again later. Get in touch with our customer services team if this issue persists.

New to Risk.net? View our subscription options

You need to sign in to use this feature. If you don’t have a Risk.net account, please register for a trial.

Sign in
You are currently on corporate access.

To use this feature you will need an individual account. If you have one already please sign in.

Sign in.

Alternatively you can request an individual account here