Explore the VIX call ladder hedge strategy, its implementation and performance during market conditions like COVID. Discover insights on hedge management and handling tail risk from a recommended episode of The Derivative podcast. Stay tuned for upcoming episodes on hedging and sizing strategies.
The VIX call ladder hedge involves structured risk mitigation through purchasing specific Delta levels and durations.
Allocating a fixed monthly percentage for options based on account balance aids in consistent risk management.
Deep dives
Understanding the VIX Call Ladder Hedge
The VIX call ladder hedge involves purchasing long call options at specific Delta levels and durations, creating a structured approach to hedging. By buying 10 Delta call options at 100 days to expiration and adding tranches at intervals, the strategy aims to mitigate risk over time. The podcast host adjusts the strategy by entering twice a month with smaller allocations, deviating from the original monthly entry suggestion. Despite variations, the core concept remains focused on allocating a fixed percentage of the portfolio for hedging purposes.
Execution and Cost Considerations
The allocation for the VIX call ladder hedge is typically recommended at a quarter percent per month, translating to a fixed amount spent on options based on account balance. The host provides an example where a $250 monthly allocation would purchase around three to four contracts of 10 Delta options. With adjustments for frequency and allocation size, the strategy aims to provide a consistent hedging mechanism at a reasonable fixed cost, helping control drawdowns and unforeseen risks.
Managing Exit Strategies and Backtesting
Determining exit criteria for the VIX call ladder hedge is flexible, allowing for various approaches such as liquidating at specific VIX levels or based on profit targets. Backtesting the strategy can provide insights into potential outcomes and adjustments needed. By considering backtesting results and setting clear exit rules, investors can tailor the hedge to their risk tolerance and overall portfolio objectives, enhancing its effectiveness as a risk management tool.
In this episode I'll be going over the mechanics and how I implement the VIX call ladder hedge aka the "Doomsday Hedge" previously taught at the Option Alpha YouTube channel.
-Listen to "Taming the Tails with LongTail Alpha’s Vineer Bhansali" at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OWvRLnrkv6w
-Visit my trading page to view strategy mechanics, tradelogs and more at TheTradeBusters.com.
-Follow me on Twitter @TheTradeBuster
**Everything discussed on this podcast is for informational purposes only and not to be construed as financial advice.
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