Static Replication of Forward-Start Claims and Realized Variance Swaps

Abstract

The goal of this work is to examine the static replication of path-dependent derivatives such as realized variance swaps, using more standard products such as forward-start binary (i.e. digital) double calls and puts. We first examine, following Carr and Madan (2002), the static replication of path-independent claims with continuous and discontinuous payoff functions. Subsequently, the static replication of forward-start claims with payoffs given by a bivariate function of finite variation is examined. We postulate that certain forward-start binary (or barrier) options are traded. The work concludes by an application of our general results to the static hedging of a realized variance swap with forward-start binary (or barrier) options.

Key Words:

• Static replication
• realized variance swap
• binary option
• barrier option