Fast solution of the Gaussian copula model

Abstract

This article describes a new approach to compute values and sensitivities of synthetic collateralized debt obligation (CDO) tranches in the market-standard, single-factor, Gaussian copula model with base correlation. We introduce a novel decomposition of the conditional expected capped portfolio loss process into “intrinsic value” and “time value” components, derive a closed form solution for the intrinsic value, and describe a very efficient computational scheme for the time value, taking advantage of a curious time stability of this quantity.

Citation

Flesaker, B. (2008), "Fast solution of the Gaussian copula model", Fouque, J.-P., Fomby, T.B. and Solna, K. (Ed.) Econometrics and Risk Management (Advances in Econometrics, Vol. 22), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 1-13. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0731-9053(08)22001-3