Local Variance Gamma Revisited

In this paper we develop a new method for implied volatility surface construction for FX options. The methodology is based on the local variance gamma model developed by Carr (2008). Our approach is to solve a simplified "one-step" version of the Dupire equation analytically under the assumption of a continuous five parameter diffusion function. The unique solution to this equation can be interpreted as a continuous representation of option prices, defined for strikes in an arbitrarily large range. The derived price functions are C^2 -positive, arbitrage-free by construction, and they do not depend on the strike discretization. By using a least-square approach, we calibrate price functions to Reuters quoted FX volatility smiles. Our results suggest that the model allows for very rapid calibration; using a Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm we measure the average calibration time to less than 1 ms for one expiry on a standard personal computer.We also extend our model to allow for interpolation between maturities and present sufficient conditions for absence of calendar spread arbitrage. In order to generate the whole implied volatility surface, we suggest a simple, fast and yet market-consistent technique allowing for arbitrage-free interpolation of calibrated price functions in the maturity dimension.The methodology is tested against EURUSD and EURSEK options, where we show that the model has the capability to produce volatility surfaces which fit market quotes with an error of few volatility basis points. We then apply the methodology to pricing variance swaps.