In this chapter, we present recent developments in using the tools of continuous-time Markov chains for the valuation of European and path-dependent financial derivatives. We also survey results on a newly proposed regime switching approximation to stochastic volatility, and stochastic local...

In this paper, we propose a general framework for the valuation of options in stochas-tic local volatility (SLV) models with a general correlation structure, which includes the Stochastic Alpha Beta Rho (SABR) model and the quadratic SLV model as special cases. Standard stochastic volatility...

In this paper, we develop a novel and efficient transform-based method to price equity-linked annuities (ELAs), including equity-indexed annuities (EIAs) and cliquet-style payoff structures popular in the insurance market under a general class of stochastic volatility models with jumps. We...

After the recent financial crisis, the market for volatility derivatives has expanded rapidly to meet the demand from investors, risk managers and speculators seeking diversification of the volatility risk. In this paper, we develop a novel and efficient transform-based method to price swaps and...

In this paper, we derive a closed-form explicit model-free formula for the (Black-Scholes) implied volatility. The method is based on the novel use of the Dirac Delta function, corresponding delta families, and the change of variable technique. The formula is expressed through either a limit or...