Option Value (Embedded)
The price difference between the option-free bond and the bond with embedded options — measures the option cost in price points.
Option value is the price impact of embedded options on a bond. Computed as the difference between the option-free tree price and the option-adjusted tree price, both at the solved OAS. For callable bonds: Option Value = V(option-free) − V(callable) > 0 (the call limits upside, costing the bondholder). For putable bonds: Option Value = V(putable) − V(option-free) > 0 (the put provides downside protection, benefiting the bondholder). Higher interest rate volatility → higher option value for both calls and puts. A deep out-of-the-money option has near-zero value. Expressed in price points per 100 par — e.g., option value of 1.50 means the embedded option is worth 1.50 points of price.
Black-Scholes-Merton Model (BSM)
The foundational option pricing formula that gives the fair value of a European call or put as a function of spot, strike, rate, volatility, and time.
Delta (Δ)
The sensitivity of an option's price to a $1 change in the underlying spot price.
Current Yield
Annual coupon income divided by the bond's clean price.
Running Yield
Annual coupon income divided by the bond's dirty price (clean price plus accrued interest).
Yield to Maturity (YTM)
The annualized return if you hold the bond to maturity, assuming all coupons are reinvested at the same rate.
Dirty Price
The total settlement price paid for a bond, including accrued interest.