Junghenn H.D. Option Valuation: A First Course in Financial Mathematics

N.-Y.: CRC Press, 2011. — 264 p.Option Valuation: A First Course in Financial Mathematics provides a straightforward introduction to the mathematics and models used in the valuation of financial derivatives. It examines the principles of option pricing in detail via standard binomial and stochastic calculus models. Developing the requisite mathematical background as needed, the text introduces probability theory and stochastic calculus at an undergraduate level.
The first nine chapters of the book describe option valuation techniques in discrete time, focusing on the binomial model. The author shows how the binomial model offers a practical method for pricing options using relatively elementary mathematical tools. The binomial model also enables a clear, concrete exposition of fundamental principles of finance, such as arbitrage and hedging, without the distraction of complex mathematical constructs. The remaining chapters illustrate the theory in continuous time, with an emphasis on the more mathematically sophisticated Black–
Scholes–Merton model. Largely self-contained, this classroom-tested text offers a sound introduction to applied probability through a mathematical finance perspective. Numerous examples and exercises help readers gain expertise with financial calculus methods and increase their general mathematical sophistication. The exercises range from routine applications to spreadsheet projects to the pricing of a variety of complex financial instruments. Hints and solutions to odd-numbered problems are given in an appendix.