knock-out options
An FX Knock-out Option is a contract through which an issuer commits to sell a foreign currency on a future date at a more attractive pre-defined rate than the standard forward rate, on condition that the exchange rate does not hit the Knock-out Level at any time during the contract.
Due to their complex character, knock-out options are not the most suitable products for corporate treasurers wishing to protect their profits from FX risks. There are more efficient alternatives like Dynamic Hedging.
Knock-out options include the following elements:
Financial Asset: | EUR/USD |
Position at Maturity: | EUR/USD short |
Amount: | 1,000,000 |
Spot Rate: | 0.9350 |
Forward Rate: | 0.9275 |
Knock-out Option Rate: | 0.9150 |
Knock-out Level: | 0.8800 |
Tenor: | 6 months |
Knock out options are speculative products that do not guarantee to hedge against FX risk. If the exchange rate hits the Knock-out level, the option will be cancelled and the buyer will remain exposed to currency volatility.