UK Linker 2026 £1bn Auction: Some Value On B/E & Vs FTSE Div Yd...

 

 

The UK DMO will tap the UKTI 0.125% 2026 issue for £1bn the decision by the Courts on Friday over the BT pension Fund may spark more interest than normal {NSN P2SVF06JTSEG <GO>}with the debate over RPI/CPI switching & in spite of the upcoming Linker 2048 Syndication this maturity should be little or no hurdle for the market-below 2 charts the FTSE100 Div yd ve the ukti 26's real yield which offers some value: The chart below is the UK1h26 vs the UKTI 0.125% 2026 which is middle of the range though with RPI remaining stubbornly high should be met with good demand :

This marketing was prepared by George Whitehead, a consultant with Astor Ridge. It is not appropriate to characterize this e-mail as independent investment research as referred to in MiFID and that it should be treated as a marketing communication even if it contains a trade recommendation. A history of marketing materials and research reports can be provided upon request in compliance with the European Commission’s Market Abuse Regulation. Astor Ridge takes no proprietary trading risk, has no market making facilities, and has no position in any security we discuss in this e-mail. The views in this e-mail are those of the author(s) and are subject to change, and Astor Ridge has no obligation to update its opinions or the information in this publication. If this e-mail contains opinions or recommendations, those opinions or recommendations reflect solely and exclusively those of the author, and such opinions were prepared independently of any other interests, including those of Astor Ridge and/or its affiliates. This publication does not constitute personal investment advice or take into account the individual financial circumstances or objectives of the those who receive it. The securities discussed herein may not be suitable for all investors. Astor Ridge recommends that investors independently evaluate each issuer, security or instrument discussed herein, and consult any independent advisors they believe necessary. The value of, and income from, any investment may fluctuate from day to day as a result of changes in relevant economic markets (including changes in market liquidity). The information herein is not intended to predict actual results, which may differ substantially from those reflected. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results.

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So you want to put on a USD steepener? Still too early, as I see it.

Writing as someone who spent most of 2017 looking for the US curve to steepen and was sorely disappointed, I am hesitant to revisit the topic. In retrospect, longer rates could not keep pace with the steady rise in short rates in response to Fed action. In this article, I’m proposing a checklist to assess the timing of various curve structures.

 

Executive Summary: There seems to be little to recommend steepeners yet on the USD curve. I’ve analysed a variety of common USD curve structures all of which dipped to their lows during the last Fed hiking cycle in 2004/2006. When I compare the levels today to that period, the vast majority of structures are still off those minima, and momentum indicators suggest they still have room to move lower. Most of the curves did not reach their lows until the hiking cycle was almost done: currently we are only halfway on this period of FOMC action. Added to that, the bulk also show a bear-flattening dynamic over the past 3 months (to a greater or lesser degree of statistical certainty) so given my bias is that US rates are heading higher in the short term it is hard to recommend steepeners yet. The rolldown is generally in your favour, but is not enough to compensate for the potential downside of early adoption. The possible exception is paying USD 2-5-10, 3m fwd, but that has already moved some way is rolldown negative.

 

In more detail:

To set the scene, here’s a chart of the Fed Target Rate and the USD 2y-10y spot slope in swaps. I’ve annotated the chart with the Fed’s and the market’s projection of where the Fed rate is headed over the next two years. The market’s pricing sees the Fed Funds rate as topping out around 2.30% by Q1 2020 ie around three more 25bp hikes from here. On that basis we are roughly half-way through the hiking cycle (if not a little further advanced). At the same stage in the 2004/2006 period, the curve still had further to flatten, though the low was reached first around three hikes before the end of that cycle.

 

 

What checklist can we use to determine whether curve relationships have moved far enough?

 

I’ll use the basis USD 2y-10y swap curve as an example.

 

1. Where and, equally importantly, when was the minimum in the 2004-2006 cycle? The FOMC first hiked rates in June 2004 and announced what turned out to be the final hike in June 2006. Historically, the USD 2y-10y curve first hit its flattest at around 0bp. This happened around March 2006, so roughly 21 months into a 24 month or 87% of the period. Currently 2y-10y in swaps is 39bp, and it’s reasonable to suggest we are 50% through the current cycle (which I am suggesting started with the Dec-16 hike). On this basis, the spot 2y-10y curve has further to flatten.

 

2. Is the momentum for flattening showing any signs of relenting? During 2017, the flattening on 2y-10y was remorseless, as the market first unwound the post-Trump steepening (10y rates falling while 2y rates stable) and then priced Fed action which had 2y selling off faster than 10y. The chart for the last 6 months and the moving averages are shown in the chart. I’m using 20-, 50- and 100-day moving averages.

 

 

In general, a steepening move would see changes to moving averages in the following time order:

  1. The gap between the 20-day and 50-day moving averages reduces;
  2. The 20-day moving average bottoms out and starts to increase;
  3. The 20-day moving average crosses the 50-day.

 

As each condition is fulfilled the likelihood of a steepening increases. It’s a trading choice as to how aggressively to target the absolute low, rather than await further confirmation and miss the most extreme entry point. Inspection of the chart shows that the first condition is being satisfied (the moving 20- and 50-day averages are converging), and the second is also (just) being fulfilled. For an “early adopter” this might be sufficient to initiate a steepener, while others might wait for the two moving averages to cross.

 

3. Will the steepener make any money? Just because the curve has stopped flattening, it does not necessarily follow that the steepener will be a quick win. Back in 2006, the USD 2y-10y curve did bounce 25bp or so off its lows immediately after hitting the Mar-16 low (though it gave all those gains back over the next three months).  

4. Is curve rolldown on your side, and is it significant? It is always preferable to have the rolldown on your side (even if the roll is not realized). The 3m fwd 2y-10y curve is 30bp compared to spot 2y-10y at 39bp, so a steepener set 3m fwd will have 9bp of apparent rolldown. To assess whether this roll is significant, we can look at the 3m realized volatility which is currently 2bp/day, or 16bp over a 3m horizon (assuming a normal distribution). As a quasi-Sharpe ratio this comes out at 56%. Whether this ratio is attractive is again a matter for the investor. Books could be written on whether rolldown actually materializes: the Fed hikes seem fairly baked-in, so the spot 2y rate could easily evolve to the 3m fwd market expectation, and the theoretical rolldown would not be captured.

 

5. What is the realized and anticipated directionality of the trade? The 10y rate has been lagging moves in short rates, and the curve has been bear-flattening. In the event of a large rally in long rates caused by global events, the curve could switch to bull-flattening; conversely increased Treasury supply expectations could drive a bear-steepening if 10y rates start to catch up. This is particularly relevant if you are looking to improve the risk/reward and entry level of the trade by using swaptions or mid-curves in a conditional structure.

 

Applying these metrics to a selection of US curve measures:

 

 

 

1. History

2. Momentum

3. Upside

4. Rolldown

5. Directionality

Curve Trade

Current

Minimum ’04-‘06

%age of ’04-’06 cycle

Moving Averages

Move from low (04/06)

3m Rolldown

Realized Daily Vol

Rolldown Sharpe

Recent Mode

R2 vs long rate (3m)

2y-5y, 3m fwd

20 bp

-3 bp

86%

üûû

12 bp

3 bp

2.0 bp

19%

Bear flatten

33%

2y-10y, 3m fwd

33 bp

-4 bp

86%

üûû

31 bp

8 bp

2.6 bp

38%

Bear flatten

20%

2y-30y, 3m fwd

41 bp

-6 bp

86%

üûû

42 bp

10 bp

2.8 bp

45%

Bear flatten

2%

5y-10y, 3m fwd

14 bp

-2 bp

86%

üûû

18 bp

2 bp

2.4 bp

10%

Bear flatten

26%

5y-30y, 3m fwd

23 bp

-2 bp

86%

üûû

33 bp

6 bp

2.8 bp

27%

Bear flatten

5%

10-30y, 3m fwd

8 bp

-1 bp

86%

ûûû

15 bp

3 bp

2.0 bp

19%

Bear flatten

14%

2y-10y, 1y fwd

21 bp

1 bp

86%

üûû

29 bp

3 bp

2.4 bp

16%

Bear flatten

36%

2y-10y, 2y fwd

16 bp

0 bp

86%

üûû

38 bp

1 bp

2.6 bp

5%

Bear flatten

43%

2y-10y, 5y fwd

10 bp

2 bp

86%

ûûû

13 bp

1 bp

2.0 bp

6%

Bear flatten

55%

2y3y v 5y5y

19 bp

-2 bp

86%

üûû

32 bp

0 bp

3.0 bp

0%

Bear flatten

33%

5y5y v 10y20y

-1 bp

0 bp

87%

ûûû

12 bp

1 bp

2.3 bp

5%

Bear flatten

76%

2y1y v 3y1y

5 bp

0 bp

62%

üûû

9 bp

1 bp

3.1 bp

4%

Bear flatten

14%

2-5-10, 3m fwd

3 bp

-10 bp

64%

üüü

8 bp

-4 bp

3.5 bp

-14%

Bear steepen

24%

 

 

Do you agree with this methodology? Would love to hear your thoughts!

Best wishes,

 

David

 

 

David Sansom

 

 

cid:<a href=image001.jpg@01D21F13.B69A4950">

 

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This marketing was prepared by David Sansom, a consultant with Astor Ridge.  It is not appropriate to characterize this e-mail as independent investment research as referred to in MiFID and that it should be treated as a marketing communication even if it contains a trade recommendation. A history of marketing materials and research reports can be provided upon request in compliance with the European Commission’s Market Abuse Regulation.  Astor Ridge takes no proprietary trading risk, has no market making facilities, and has no position in any security we discuss in this e-mail.  The views in this e-mail are those of the author(s) and are subject to change, and Astor Ridge has no obligation to update its opinions or the information in this publication. If this e-mail contains opinions or recommendations, those opinions or recommendations reflect solely and exclusively those of the author, and such opinions were prepared independently of any other interests, including those of Astor Ridge and/or its affiliates. This publication does not constitute personal investment advice or take into account the individual financial circumstances or objectives of the those who receive it. The securities discussed herein may not be suitable for all investors. Astor Ridge recommends that investors independently evaluate each issuer, security or instrument discussed herein, and consult any independent advisors they believe necessary. The value of, and income from, any investment may fluctuate from day to day as a result of changes in relevant economic markets (including changes in market liquidity). The information herein is not intended to predict actual results, which may differ substantially from those reflected. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results. 


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MICROCOSM: SPGB 10yr Syndication and a CRUDE Look at Sov Ratings

SPGB 4/28s syndication today with market expecting 8-9bln, in line with the last two new 10yrs.


I have to admit I am a tad surprised how resilient SPGB 10/27s have been in light of the new 10yr. 5-10s in SPGBs has been bull flattening (just a couple bps off the Dec lows now) and sprds to IKH8 have been stubborn around the 67bps level, about 2bps wider than Friday. I was also surprised to read some dealers/clients were surprised by the Fitch upgrade Friday which we thought was well priced into spreads.

We know there's a C&R flow hitting the SPGB mkt of EUR 26.3bn on Jan 31st (the likely settlement date of today's 10yr) which is certainly supportive for SPGBs. Even with that support it's unusual to have little to no concession at all for a deal this size though.  We still have a good deal of potential market risk between now and the end of the month with the ECB meeting on Thurs and one would think after a move like this that the market’s leaning long-ish SPGBs.

We're monitoring this closely because right around the corner is a likely new 10yr BTPS issue next week.

 

Just for grins, lets see where 10yr benchmarks are trading relative to each other with their ratings noted. (I’ve used Fitch since they’ve been most active of late). There will be some curve mismatches given the maturity of their benchmarks but you’ll see below that there would appear to still be some room for further spread compression, particularly since Spain and Portugal are expected to be upgraded again this year.

 

 

Country

Issue

LT Sov Rating

Yield

Sprd to DBR

Germany

DBR .5 8/27

AAA

.544

 

France

FRTR 0.75 5/28

AA

.819

+27.5

Italy

BTPS 2.05 8/27

BBB

1.886

+134.2

Holland

NETHER .75 7/27

AAA

.584

+4.0

Spain

SPGB 1.45 10/27

A-

1.349

+80.5

Ireland

IRISH .9 5/28

A+

.932

+38.8

Portugal

PGB 2.125 10/28

BBB

1.859

+131.5

Austria

RAGB .75 2/28

AA+

.63

+8.6

Belgium

BGB .8 6/27

AA-

.68

+13.6

Finland

RFGB .5 9/27

AA+

.652

+10.8

Slovenia

SLOREP 1 3/28

A-

1.011

+46.7

Greece

GGB 3.75 1/28

B-

3.775

+323.1


So, let’s make some CRUDE approximations here. If we tighten up the maturity mismatches a bit and compare the DBR 8/27s to the FRTR 10/27s (for example)  we get a spread of ~21bps or about 10.5bps per ratings notch. At the other end of the spectrum, Italy’s BBB rating is 8 notches below Germany’s AAA rating. If we apply a similar 10.5bps spread per notch that France trades at, we’re left with a spread of about 85bps over DBRs, or, versus Spain, BTPS should trade about 21bps cheaper, not the current ~54bps the BTPS 8/27-SPGB 10/27 sprd trades at. Even if we widen the per notch spread to 15bps we’ve still got plenty of room there.

Clearly, there are risks embedded in these crude assumptions (politics, supply, etc), however, much of what drove the extraordinary tightening of Portugal’s spread to Germany last year was improvements in Portugal’s fiscal outlook which was captured and applauded by the ratings upgrades.  With the Italian election likely holding BTPS back a bit before March (even though 5 Star said they don’t want a referendum on the EU) the market seems to want to make Spain this year’s Portugal and at 4 notches below France (who are not expected to be upgraded this year, given their borrowing needs) there seems room for further spread narrowing from here.

 

 

Thoughts…?

Mark

 

cid:<a href=image009.jpg@01D28D1B.42BD95C0">

 

Mark Funsch

 

O:            +44 (0) 203 - 143 - 4177

M:            +44 (0) 789 - 996 - 4051

E:             Mark.Funsch@AstorRidge.com

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US:          245 Park Ave, 39th Floor, NY, NY, 10167

 

This research was prepared by Mark Funsch.  He is a consultant with Astor Ridge.  A history of his marketing commentaries can be provided upon request in compliance with the European Commission’s Market Abuse Regulation.  Astor Ridge takes no proprietary trading risk, has no market making facilities, and has no position in any security we discuss in this e-mail.  The views in this e-mail are those of the author(s) and are subject to change, and Astor Ridge has no obligation to update its opinions or the information in this publication. If this e-mail contains recommendations, those recommendations reflect solely and exclusively those of the author, and such opinions were prepared independently of any other interests, including those of Astor Ridge and/or its affiliates. This publication does not constitute personal investment advice or take into account the individual financial circumstances or objectives of the clients who receive it. The securities discussed herein may not be suitable for all investors. Astor Ridge recommends that investors independently evaluate each issuer, security or instrument discussed herein, and consult any independent advisors they believe necessary. The value of and income from any investment may fluctuate from day to day as a result of changes in relevant economic markets (including changes in market liquidity). The information herein is not intended to predict actual results, which may differ substantially from those reflected. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results. 

 

You should not use or disclose to any other person the contents of this e-mail or its attachments (if any), nor take copies. This e-mail is not a representation or warranty and is not intended nor should it be taken to create any legal relations, contractual or otherwise. This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential, may be legally privileged, and are for the sole use of the intended recipient. Copyright in this e-mail and any accompanying document created by Astor Ridge LLP is owned by Astor Ridge LLP. 

 

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Trade idea: receive 3m fwd USD 2s5s10s vs paying 80% beta weighted 2y1y3y1y (so called starfish)

Mean reverting structure at compelling levels from my colleague Egor…

 

From: Egor Avdeev
Sent: 22 January 2018 16:00
To: Jim Lockard <Jim.lockard@astorridge.com>;
Subject: FW: trade idea: receive 3m fwd USD 2s5s10s vs paying 80% beta weighted 2y1y3y1y (so called starfish)

 

Trade Idea: Receive usd starfish  (which is receiving USD 2y5y10y vs paying 80% beta weighted USD 2y1y3y1y)) @ 0  (e.g. receive fly @ +3.5 bps, pay 2y1-3y1 @ 4.4 bps)

 

  • Target is -9; add level is +3 implying roughly 5:1 risk reward ratio
  • The US 2y1y vs 3y1y is now around 4.3 and US 1y1y2y1y around 14.8 that level suggests that the market thinks the Fed will be done a year or two from now and is looking ahead to cuts. Should the new Fed chair (Powell) will trade will work even better.
  • I think paying 2y1y3y1y curve by itself is a good trade, but also on the other side the curve is likely to reprice higher risk premia while the Fed continues with gradual hikes. This means that 5s/10s should steepen in a sell-off, while Fed hikes exert a slight flattening bias at the front end making further steepening of the 2s/5s less likely. Hence receiving USD 2510 against paying green/blues (USD 2y1y3y1y) 80% beta weighted is a good trade if you not comfortable with outright 2y1y3y1y steepener.
  • The risk to the trade is much more hawkish Fed when is priced in the market now (one of the reason for which could devaluation of USD caused for instance for start of the oil pricing in renminbi, increase in treasury issuance and foreign buyers moving away from USD debt causing Fed to hike rapidaly). However I think we are not in this situation now. Ie rate hike cycle more akin to 1993-1994 or 2000s which I believe is unlikely given current economic situation.
  • The point to note is that while the trade is flat carry on 1y horizon the carry on USD 2s5s10s is  more ‘front loaded’, while in USD 2y1y3y1y more backloaded, so if you like to be more cautious on the trade you might choose to do 6m or 9m 2510 forward  against 2y1y3y1y steepeener.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


GBP 5y5y10y5y15y5y fly (pay the belly)

Reasonable expression for fading the richness of the GBP 15yr point from my colleague Egor…

 

Jim Lockard

Founder / Managing Partner

cid:<a href=image001.jpg@01D21F14.8E7A1C60">

UK: 14-16 Dowgate Hill, London ec4r 2su

US: 245 Park Ave 39th Fl, New York NY 10167

Office:  +44 (0) 207-002-1341

Mobile: +44 (0) 7795-027-865

Email:  jim.lockard@astorridge.com

Website:  www.astorridge.com

 

From: Egor Avdeev
Sent: 19 January 2018 11:41

 

Trade Idea: GBP 5y5y10y5y15y5y fly (pay the belly)

 

  1. Pay GBP 5y5y 10y5y 15y5y fly (around 21 now, low 19-20, should go to 30+ so roughly 5:1 risk reward) or receive GBP 10y5y20y5y curve – both reflecting underlying richness of 15y point on GBP curve which likely to be unwound given coming libor reform of switching from libor to Sonia
  2. 5y5y-10y5y-15y5y is looking around 5bp-10bp too flat on various metrics/regressions, driven by the richening of 15y point.
  3. 5y5y-10y5y is the slight dominant leg within the fly, which does look too flat relative to short rates (term premium metric).
  4. The term premium metric (5y5y-10y5y vs 25% 5s) had been gently rising post Brexit by 15bp, but has recently quickly fallen by 10bp thus close to the all time lows. There is 5bp-10bp in the trade even without any significant repricing of term premium.
  5. The fly carries +2.5bp/annum whilst being flat convexity.
  6. Overall, the fly is more ‘protected’ (bounded) relative to the straight 5y5y-10y5y steepener which also makes sense.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Egor avdeev

 

cid:<a href=image001.jpg@01D21F14.8E7A1C60">

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Email:  egor.avdeev@astorridge.com

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This commentary was prepared by Egor Avdeev, an Introducing Broker at Astor Ridge. It is not appropriate to characterize this e-mail as independent investment research as referred to in MiFID and it should be treated as a marketing communication even if it contains a research recommendation. A history of his commentary can be provided upon request in compliance with the European Commission’s Market Abuse Regulation. Astor Ridge does not engage in market making or proprietary trading, and has no position in any security discussed in this e-mail.  The views in this e-mail are those of the author(s) and are subject to change.. Any recommendations contained herein reflect solely those of the author and were prepared independently of Astor Ridge or its affiliates. This publication does not constitute personal investment advice and may not be suitable for all investors. Astor Ridge recommends that investors independently evaluate recommendations discussed herein. Actual investment returns may fluctuate as a result of changes in economic and market conditions (including market liquidity). Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results.

You should not use or disclose to any other person the contents of this e-mail or its attachments (if any), nor take copies. This e-mail is not a representation or warranty and is not intended nor should it be taken to create any legal relations, contractual or otherwise. This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential, may be legally privileged, and are for the sole use of the intended recipient. Copyright in this e-mail and any accompanying document created by us is owned by us. 

 

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UKT 42s60s back to post Brexit extremes into coupon payment

The Gilt 22 Jan coupon payment will be concentrated in the 30-50yr sector; with these bonds having recently gone ex-dividend, we’ve seen richening of ultras to extremes last seen during the large linker index extension in mid November, when the UKT 42s60s inverted intraday to -19.6 bps before correcting back to -16 bps:

 

 

-20bps was the post Brexit low into June 2016 quarter end de-risking; it has held 4 times since then:

 

 

There is a loose correlation between 42s60s and UKT 60s yield over the last 6 months; recently there has been a buyers strike at 1.50 yields:

 

UKT 42s60s (white)

UKT 60s yield (inverted – orange)

 

 

The recent bull flattening of 30s50s makes the 42s60s curve stand out as too flat (inverted) vs the level of ultra yields by ~3.75 bps.

We have a UKT 57s tap in on 15 Feb which should provide an exit opportunity.

Moreover, we expect a new 73s ultra to be announced after the DMO consultation on 29 January to satisfy RM demand (for the new fiscal year). 

 

One word of caution:  On a Z spread basis, the 42s60s is still 3 bps off the lows (i.e. the cash curve has lagged the flattening in GBP 30s50s on the back of LDI receiving):

 

 

Trade:

UKT 42s60s steepener at -19.7 bps:

 

 

3mo carry = +0.9bps + 0.35 roll = 1.25 bps

 

Stop: 21.5 bps  (-1.8 bps)

Target: 16.25 bps  (+3.5 bps)

 

Regards,

Jim

 

Jim Lockard

Founder / Managing Partner

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This commentary was prepared by Jim Lockard, a Managing Partner at Astor Ridge. It is not appropriate to characterize this e-mail as independent investment research as referred to in MiFID and it should be treated as a marketing communication even if it contains a research recommendation. A history of his commentary can be provided upon request in compliance with the European Commission’s Market Abuse Regulation. Astor Ridge does not engage in market making or proprietary trading, and has no position in any security discussed in this e-mail.  The views in this e-mail are those of the author(s) and are subject to change.. Any recommendations contained herein reflect solely those of the author and were prepared independently of Astor Ridge or its affiliates. This publication does not constitute personal investment advice and may not be suitable for all investors. Astor Ridge recommends that investors independently evaluate recommendations discussed herein. Actual investment returns may fluctuate as a result of changes in economic and market conditions (including market liquidity). Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results.

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Trade: GBP 2y-10y bull-steepener on a 6m horizon

Bottom line: With a year to go before BREXIT it is likely that talks will go down to the wire before the market is able to determine an outcome for the UK economy. Over the next 6 months it makes sense to harvest roll-down, and on this theme 2y-10y bull-steepeners offer a good risk-reward.

Trade:
Buy GBP 507mm 6m2y receiver atmf (k=0.934%)
Sell GBP 108mm 6m10y receiver atmf-10bp (k=1.277%)

For zero cost indicative

Equivalent to GBP 100k/bp on the underlying 2y-10y curve.

Spot 2y-10y at 51.8bp
6m fwd 2y-10y at 44.3bp

Strike entry at 34.3bp

Rationale:

The market is pricing higher short rates from the MPC in 2018, but only grudgingly: the Jun meeting SONIA is priced at 56bp, so just a 40% chance of seeing a single 25bp hike by then. This reflects the dovish rhetoric that surrounded last November’s hike, and the ongoing uncertainties over BREXIT outcomes. The GBP curve on 2y-10y has gently flattened with this higher-rate outlook, but with the BREXIT date still a year away it seems unlikely we will be much clearer on the final outcome in six months’ time than we are today. In this equivocal environment it makes sense to look for strategies that maximize carry / roll.

The roll-down on GBP rates is highest at the short-end, so I’m looking at a steepener to harness this: in this case 2y-10y. The 6m-fwd is 7.5bp below spot, which represents the net roll-down. Given the differential in implied vols between 2y and 10y tails, structuring the trade via receivers (buying 6m2y, selling 6m10y) allows you to move the 6m10y strike out-of-the-money by 10bp for a costless structure. This improves the entry level over the same steepener in vanilla swaps.

So while the 10y tail is struck slightly below atm spot, the 2y tail is struck some 13bp above atm spot. Thus even with a gentle rise in short-rate expectations, the trade can also make money on a small bearish move.

In terms of expiry, I’ve chosen 6m to maximize the roll (compared to a 3m expiry), but I don’t want to go longer as events could get more volatile as we get closer to the date on which the UK is expected to leave the EU. As an aside, moving the 10y strike out of the money gives you a long gamma position at inception, with a net delta (for 100k/bp underlying) of 28k/bp received.

The main risk is a major bull-flattening move. This dynamic would require a rapid collapse in the UK data, and the raising of recession fears. This is not my scenario, as first the UK numbers have been holding up surprisingly well of late, and as I have said, I don’t see enough progress being made on BREXIT decisions to be able to forecast a severe weakening (or any other outcome) within the six-month horizon of this trade.

As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts on this.

Best wishes,

David

 

David Sansom

 

 

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This marketing was prepared by David Sansom, a consultant with Astor Ridge.  It is not appropriate to characterize this e-mail as independent investment research as referred to in MiFID and that it should be treated as a marketing communication even if it contains a trade recommendation. A history of marketing materials and research reports can be provided upon request in compliance with the European Commission’s Market Abuse Regulation.  Astor Ridge takes no proprietary trading risk, has no market making facilities, and has no position in any security we discuss in this e-mail.  The views in this e-mail are those of the author(s) and are subject to change, and Astor Ridge has no obligation to update its opinions or the information in this publication. If this e-mail contains opinions or recommendations, those opinions or recommendations reflect solely and exclusively those of the author, and such opinions were prepared independently of any other interests, including those of Astor Ridge and/or its affiliates. This publication does not constitute personal investment advice or take into account the individual financial circumstances or objectives of the those who receive it. The securities discussed herein may not be suitable for all investors. Astor Ridge recommends that investors independently evaluate each issuer, security or instrument discussed herein, and consult any independent advisors they believe necessary. The value of, and income from, any investment may fluctuate from day to day as a result of changes in relevant economic markets (including changes in market liquidity). The information herein is not intended to predict actual results, which may differ substantially from those reflected. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results. 


You should not use or disclose to any other person the contents of this e-mail or its attachments (if any), nor take copies. This e-mail is not a representation or warranty and is not intended nor should it be taken to create any legal relations, contractual or otherwise. This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential, may be legally privileged, and are for the sole use of the intended recipient. Copyright in this e-mail and any accompanying document created by Astor Ridge LLP is owned by Astor Ridge LLP. 

 

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TRADE IDEAS: Long UKT 1T 37s into Tap w/Charts

Ø The UKT 1T 37s will be tapped Thursday for the last time this fiscal year. They will surely be tapped again in Q2 '18 but lots of wood to chop before then. o The issue has lagged the flattening move in the sector. o BoE holdings of the UKT 1T 37s are currently zero while UKT 4Q 32s holdings are 72% (ineligible now), 4T 38s 53% and 4H 42s 37%. One would assume the BoE will be targeting the 37s during the March APF UKT 5 18s reinvestments. o In this morning's MACROCOSM note entitled "Laying the Groundwork for UK Rates in 2018", we highlighted the risk that the start of 2018 will look a lot like H2 2017 - relatively low volatility with range trading, a general flattening curve bias and flat/long gilts directionally. Discussions with clients reveal flatteners are already popular trades and, while some may be looking to add if they can find an issue that has 'missed the boat', they'd also consider lightening up on their flatteners if a compelling steepener arose. So, at the risk of appearing indecisive, we'll take a look at both options below. These are 'micro' trades - if you prefer something more macro pls let me know.
Ø FLATTENERS: o Long UKT 1T 37 vs UKT 4Q 32 and UKT 4H 42 at +20.4bps, targeting 18bps, stop at 21.5bps. With the short leg around 22.4bps and the long leg 1.7bps, this butterfly is clearly a flattener in disguise. The reason we like the fly is it carries better than the naked flattener out of 32s into 37s (which looks interesting on its own). This is one of the few flatteners in the sector that hasn't made a new low since the start of '18.

o Long UKT 1T 37 vs UKT 4Q 36 and UKT 4T 38 at +11.1bps, targeting 9bps, stop at 12bps. The 36-37s leg of this fly has lagged the move on the curve, still about .5bp steeper than the range lows. The 37-38s leg has flattened 2bps since early Dec, exaggerating the cheapening of the 37s on the fly. Carry and roll is a touch negative on the fly but the dislocation below looks compelling enough for us to live with that.

Ø STEEPENER: o Buy UKT 1T 37 vs UKT 4T 38s at +3.5bps, targeting +2bps, stop +4.5bps. This is a micro trade that has richened back near levels that have held since July on both yield and Z-spread. Carry and roll is flat.


I'll be in touch to discuss.
Thanks,
Mark
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Mark Funsch
O: +44 (0) 207 - 002 - 1347 M: +44 (0) 789 - 996 - 4051 E: Mark.Funsch@AstorRidge.com<mailto:Mark.Funsch@AstorRidge.com> W: www.AstorRidge.com UK: 60 Cannon Street, London, EC4N 6NP US: 245 Park Ave, 39th Floor, NY, NY, 10167
This research was prepared by Mark Funsch. He is a consultant with Astor Ridge. A history of his marketing commentaries can be provided upon request in compliance with the European Commission's Market Abuse Regulation. Astor Ridge takes no proprietary trading risk, has no market making facilities, and has no position in any security we discuss in this e-mail. The views in this e-mail are those of the author(s) and are subject to change, and Astor Ridge has no obligation to update its opinions or the information in this publication. If this e-mail contains recommendations, those recommendations reflect solely and exclusively those of the author, and such opinions were prepared independently of any other interests, including those of Astor Ridge and/or its affiliates. This publication does not constitute personal investment advice or take into account the individual financial circumstances or objectives of the clients who receive it. The securities discussed herein may not be suitable for all investors. Astor Ridge recommends that investors independently evaluate each issuer, security or instrument discussed herein, and consult any independent advisors they believe necessary. The value of and income from any investment may fluctuate from day to day as a result of changes in relevant economic markets (including changes in market liquidity). The information herein is not intended to predict actual results, which may differ substantially from those reflected. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results.
You should not use or disclose to any other person the contents of this e-mail or its attachments (if any), nor take copies. This e-mail is not a representation or warranty and is not intended nor should it be taken to create any legal relations, contractual or otherwise. This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential, may be legally privileged, and are for the sole use of the intended recipient. Copyright in this e-mail and any accompanying document created by Astor Ridge LLP is owned by Astor Ridge LLP.
Astor Ridge LLP is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA): Registration Number 579287 Astor Ridge LLP is Registered in England and Wales with Companies House: Registration Number OC372185 Astor Ridge NA LLP is a member of FINRA/SIPC: CRD Number 282626 Astor Ridge NA LLP is a member of the National Futures Association (NFA): Firm ID Number 0499303 Astor Ridge NA LLP is Registered in England and Wales with Companies House: Registration Number OC401796


UKT T 23 - 2 25 - 1Q27 fly - Wings are cheap

Subject: UKT T 23 - 2 25 - 1Q27 fly - Wings are cheap
An interesting way to capture the benchmark premium on the UKT 0T23s and 1Q27 from John; this is achieved by hedging them with 7yr bullet (2% 2/25).
With a new 10yr benchmark in March, the 1Q27 should richen to the curve as it approaches its last official tap in January. Similarly, the 0T23, despite taps in Jan and March, should perform into the £35bn UKT 5 3/18 redemption on March 7th.
Note: John is quoting the fly via wings (not belly), i.e. to buy wings of 0T23-2’25-1Q27 @ +6.5 bps = Sell belly at -6.5 bps. This fly rolls to 0H22-2T24-1H26 = +2.3 bps (belly cheap), for total roll of 8.8 bps. Similarly, the UKT CMS 5s7s9s fly below is quoted vs wings, i.e. the belly is 2 bps cheap.
For those with dyslexia, please disregard note above 😊
==============================================================================================================================
I like buying the UKT current 5y and 10y verse the belly (it is the 5-7-9 fly): This is the kind of position we do 1/3 at 6.5bp, 1/3 at 7bp, and 1/3 at 7.5bp.

This is where it rolls to:

This is a graph of the current fly and the 1 year old fly. I like the location to get a position started, and I really like that it is cheaper now than the last fly has ever been.

It looks very good on the Theoretical curve:

Here are the bonds highlighted on the Yield and OAS curves.

John Wentzell CEO / Founding Partner image009.jpg@01D28D1B.42BD95C0"/> O: +44 (0) 207 - 002 - 1344 M: +44 (0) 779 - 505 - 0313 E: John.Wentzell@AstorRidge.com<mailto:John.Wentzell@AstorRidge.com> W: www.AstorRidge.com UK: 60 Cannon Street, London, EC4N 6NP US: 245 Park Ave, 39th Floor, NY, NY, 10167
This marketing was prepared by John Wentzell. It is not appropriate to characterize this e-mail as independent investment research as referred to in MiFID and that it should be treated as a marketing communication even if it contains a research recommendation. John is a Partner and CEO of Astor Ridge. A history of marketing materials and research reports can be provided upon request in compliance with the European Commission’s Market Abuse Regulation. Astor Ridge takes no proprietary trading risk, has no market making facilities, and has no position in any security we discuss in this e-mail. The views in this e-mail are those of the author(s) and are subject to change, and Astor Ridge has no obligation to update its opinions or the information in this publication. If this e-mail contains opinions or recommendations, those opinions or recommendations reflect solely and exclusively those of the author, and such opinions were prepared independently of any other interests, including those of Astor Ridge and/or its affiliates. This publication does not constitute personal investment advice or take into account the individual financial circumstances or objectives of the those who receive it. The securities discussed herein may not be suitable for all investors. Astor Ridge recommends that investors independently evaluate each issuer, security or instrument discussed herein, and consult any independent advisors they believe necessary. The value of, and income from, any investment may fluctuate from day to day as a result of changes in relevant economic markets (including changes in market liquidity). The information herein is not intended to predict actual results, which may differ substantially from those reflected. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results.
You should not use or disclose to any other person the contents of this e-mail or its attachments (if any), nor take copies. This e-mail is not a representation or warranty and is not intended nor should it be taken to create any legal relations, contractual or otherwise. This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential, may be legally privileged, and are for the sole use of the intended recipient. Copyright in this e-mail and any accompanying document created by Astor Ridge LLP is owned by Astor Ridge LLP.
Astor Ridge LLP is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA): Registration Number 579287 Astor Ridge LLP is Registered in England and Wales with Companies House: Registration Number OC372185 Astor Ridge NA LLP is a member of FINRA/SIPC: CRD Number 282626 Astor Ridge NA LLP is a member of the National Futures Association (NFA): Firm ID Number 0499303 Astor Ridge NA LLP is Registered in England and Wales with Companies House: Registration Number OC401796