
Explanation:
A constant maturity swap (CMS) is a derivative with a payoff that is linked to a reference rate, typically a swap rate such as the LIBOR. In a CMS, one party pays a series of fixed payments while receiving a series of floating payments indexed to a swap rate (constant maturity). The swap rate is reset periodically, typically every six months, and is usually tied to the rate of a specific maturity of swap. In this case, Heidelberg Brewery is planning to pay semiannual cash flows equal to the 10-year swap rate and receive semiannual cash flows equal to the 6-month LIBOR. This is exactly how a CMS works, making it the most suitable swap for this transaction.
Choice A is incorrect. A LIBOR-to-floating swap would involve exchanging a fixed interest rate for a floating interest rate based on the LIBOR. However, in this case, both sides of the swap are floating rates: one side is the 10-year swap rate and the other side is the 6-month LIBOR.
Choice B is incorrect. A step-up swap involves an agreement where one party makes payments that increase over time while receiving a fixed or floating rate in return. This scenario does not describe such an arrangement as there's no mention of increasing payments over time.
Choice D is incorrect. In a LIBOR in arrears swap, one party pays a fixed or floating rate and receives the LIBOR determined at the end of each period rather than at its beginning (i.e., "in arrears"). This situation doesn't match with Heidelberg Brewery's proposed arrangement as they expect to receive semiannual payments equivalent to 6-month LIBOR without any delay or "arrear" condition.
Q.722 Heidelberg Brewery wants to enter into a 3-year swap agreement with Everest Investment Co. Heidelberg intends to pay semiannual cash flows equal to the 10-year swap rate on the principal of €100 million to the Everest Investment in exchange for receiving semiannual cash flows from the investment company equal to the 6-month LIBOR on the same notional principal. Which of the following swaps is most suitable for this transaction?
A
LIBOR-to-floating swap
B
Step-up swap
C
Constant maturity swap
D
LIBOR in arrears swap
No comments yet.