Estimation of bid-ask prices for options on LIBOR based instruments

Abstract

Interest rate options are the most liquid traded derivatives in the markets. We observe the following from the markets: (i) Market dealers usually quote the mid-price. The mid-price is a subjective and hypothetical price. (ii) OTC interest rate options market are incomplete, and options cannot always be costlessly replicated. (iii) The bid-ask prices are not widely available for the market as a whole. With these observations in mind, we propose an approach to estimate the bid-ask prices for options on LIBOR based instruments. In particular, we assess the proposed approach in the determination of premiums for caps and floors