Correlation Trading Through Swaps

Correlation trading through swaps enables one to take a purely systematic correlation view. The fixed side of the swap is based on the implied correlation, which is calculated from the related implied volatilities. The floating side is the final realized correlation of spot returns at expiration (typically 4pm London WMR Fix) using the standard Pearson's correlation. Due to the mean reverting nature of correlations and the fact that they have mathematical and natural type boundaries, the product can create excellent trading opportunities. Other attractive features are asset diversification, zero premium outlay, and efficiency relative to the vanilla option replication.