The Volatility Risk Premium in the KOSPI200 Index Options

Abstract

This study examines whether the volatility risk premium is reflected on the prices of the KOSPI200 index options. By applying the empirical method of Bakshi and Kapadia (2003), we analyze the performance of delta-hedging strategy in the KOSPI200 index market. They showed the existence of the negative volatility risk premium in the S&P 500 index options as well as derived theoretical positive relationship between the volatility risk premium and delta-hedging gains. However, in the results of this study, contrary to those in the S&P 500 index options market, we do not observe the volatility risk premium. Delta-hedged gains of ATM options are not significantly negative. Delta-hedged gains are not more negative as historical volatility increases and as options' vega and remaining maturity increase. However, the notable finding of this study is that delta-hedged gains of OTM options and put options are negative and signigicant. This results can be caused by the phenomenon of overpriced puts or by market microstructure factors, such as relatively wide bid-ask spread and high tick size. In a simple examination of comparison between changes in traded option prices and changes in the Black-Scholes option prices during delta-hedging period, negative delta-hedged gains seem to be attributed to too small changes in call option prices and too large changes in put option prices. In conclusion, by analyzing the delta-hedged gains, the volatility risk risk premium seems not be observed in the KOSPI200 index options market.