Explanation:
The correct answer is B.
The efficacy of margin in mitigating wrong-way risk (WWR) within a firm like Fidelity Finance Corp is highly dependent on the timing of exposure increases. If the exposures resulting from the derivatives market increase gradually before a default, then the margin posted can act as an effective mitigant. However, if the market experiences a sharp jump in exposure, particularly close to the time of default, the margin may not serve its purpose and be considered ineffective at reducing WWR. This timing dependency implies that margin is only conditionally effective against WWR.
A is incorrect because the margin does not have a uniform effect on WWR across all market conditions. Its effectiveness is closely tied to the timing of the exposure increase relative to the default event.
C is incorrect because, despite regular posting intervals for margins, the timing of the exposure increase is critical for determining its effectiveness in mitigating WWR. Standardized intervals do not automatically solve for sudden jumps in exposure that may coincide with WWR.
D is incorrect because margin does not instantaneously provide liquidity in the face of rapid market declines. If a sudden jump in exposure due to WWR occurs, the margin previously received may not be sufficient to cover this surge in exposure.
Things to Remember
Ultimate access to all questions.
No comments yet.
Q.5480 Fidelity Finance Corp is a trading firm that actively partakes in the OTC derivatives market, applying margin to manage exposures. The firm is appraising its margin policy effectiveness in response to potential wrong-way risk (WWR). As part of this strategic evaluation, they need an understanding of the impact of margin on WWR. Given current market dynamics and the nature of WWR, how effective is the margin likely to be in mitigating WWR for Fidelity Finance Corp?
A
Margin can effectively mitigate WWR regardless of market conditions, as it serves as a buffer that absorbs potential increases in exposure, irrespective of the timing.
B
Margin's effectiveness is timing-dependent, and only if the exposure increases gradually prior to default can margin be received and offer a risk mitigation benefit for WWR.
C
Margin has a universal mitigating effect on WWR due to the regular and standardized posting intervals which prevent significant exposure increases at any point in time.
D
Margin is most effective during periods of rapid market decline, as it provides instantaneous liquidity which can cover any exposure increases due to WWR.