FxWirePro: Take a Look at Long Vega Exposure via FVA 1*2 Spreads For Risk-off Hedge

In this write-up, we emphasize on a strategy of FVA 1*2 spreads. Utilizing luring pricing and positive rolldown, 1x2 FVA spreads are time passage friendly and low maintenance long vega positions that struck us as a solid buy in the current environment where low decay vega is well sought after. The basic construct involves selling shorter-dated FVA along with an upward-sloping segment of the vol curve to partially fund the purchase of a longer-dated FVA that sits on a flatter part of the term structure. The roll-down of the short leg then compensates (or even eliminates, as is the case for CADJPY) the slide of the long position, all the while preserving the overall structure’s net long vol characteristic. The short leg is not large enough to disrupt the net positive sensitivity of the package to vol upturns. 

Consequently, the structure is a carry efficient risk-off hedge. We screen for the FVA spread candidates based on their pricing (in form of a 1-y z-score) and the sensitivity to the ongoing market turbulence (in form of 2-week change in pricing of the package) – (refer 1st chart).

In the case of CADJPY, the current levels are still a bargain by historical standards, even after the recent bounce. The net 6-month static vol slide (at the expiry of the short leg) deteriorated as the front vols spiked on the back of the recent spot gyrations but is still positive thus making the long/short structure superior to holding a similar long-dated straddle (refer 2nd chart). 

Consider short 6M6M CAD/JPY @8.7ch vs long 1Y6M @8.55/9.05, in 1:2 vega weights or short 6M6M USD/JPY @7.6ch vs 1Y6M @7.55/7.95 indic, in 1:2 vega weights. Courtesy: JPM