Tech and NewsT2

Indexed for growth – The democratisation of thematic indexes

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 12:59:32 +0000

Simon Karaban, head of index services at Singapore Exchange, talks about environmental, social and governance indexes and how the emergence of exchange-traded funds and wealth platforms is democratising thematic indexes, making them more accessible to retail investors

Derivative Valuation

Stocks making the biggest moves midday: Alphabet, Spotify, GameStop, Amgen & more

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 17:38:25 +0000

Check out the companies making headlines in midday trading.

options trading strategies

Ford just overhauled its most rugged pickup and styled it after a fighter jet - see the new F-150 Raptor

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 16:00:00 +0000

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

Ford just unveiled the all-new, third generation of the F-150 Raptor.
It's the most rugged pickup truck Ford currently makes, intended for high-speed desert-running and leaping through the air.
No price was announced at this time, but the new Raptors will hit showrooms this summer.
Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

You knew it was coming.

Hot on the heels of June's 2021 Ford F-150 pickup truck reveal comes the new F-150 Raptor: the performance one. The off-roady one. The desert-running one. The leapy one. This is the one for the people who want a Baja 1000-ready pickup.

Powered by a 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine, Ford says the new Raptor will have an expected range of more than 500 miles. No pricing was announced at this time, but the truck will arrive in showrooms this summer. Next year, expect an even more hardcore F-150 Raptor R.

But for now, read on to see the 2021 F-150 Raptor, a pickup truck that Ford says was inspired by the F-22 Raptor fighter jet.

The 2021 Ford F-150 Raptor is the new, performance-oriented version of the pickup truck and designed for off-roading.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

And it can leap through the air.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

It marks the all-new, third generation of the off-roading truck.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

The front fascia has been "completely redesigned," according to Ford.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

The grille is blacked out and meant to give a sense of width.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

The automaker says the truck was inspired by the F-22 Raptor fighter jet.

F-22 Raptor.

US Air Force

The functional side vents and the hood's new heat extractor have all apparently been inspired by the jet.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

I don't see it, personally.

Inside, that idea of a jet continues in the highly technical cockpit.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

The 12-inch digital gauge cluster features Raptor-specific animations and graphics.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

The steering wheel has a top centering mark, aluminum paddle shifters, and a laser-etched logo.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

The standard seats are bolstered, but you can option Recaro performance seats as well.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

There are aluminum or carbon fiber interior packages.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

There's apparently even more interior storage than before.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

There's a spare tire mounted beneath the bed.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

The new Raptor has a reengineered suspension system that will help it drive quickly over rough terrain.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

There are Fox shocks and 24-inch coil springs.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

The Raptor also comes with giant tires straight from the factory.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

You can get either 35- or 37-inch tires.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

When fitted with the 37-inch tires, the Raptor has a towering ground clearance of 13.1 inches.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

Just like in the 2021 F-150, the Raptor will have a mobile generator.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

There's an optional 360-degree camera that lets you see everything around you.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

And there's something called "1-Pedal Drive."

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

Basically, this lets you drive your truck off-road without having to worry about two pedals.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

Pressing the throttle moves the truck forward. Releasing it activates the brake.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

The Raptor comes with Ford's twin-turbo 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine, though no official performance specs were released at this time.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

However, Ford did say that low-end torque, maximum towing capabilities, and maximum payload have all been improved.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

The truck is projected to have an EPA-estimated range of more than 500 miles with a full tank of gas.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

Ford says the truck was designed to move quickly over rough terrain and also leap through the air.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

No pricing was announced at this time, but you can expect the new Raptors to hit showrooms by summer.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

And you can mark your calendar for an even more hardcore Raptor R in 2022.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor.

Ford

Read the original article on Business Insider

options trading strategies

How to Calculate Stock Beta in Excel-Replicating Yahoo Stock Beta

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 14:42:13 +0000

In a previous post, we presented a method for calculating a stock beta and implemented it in Python. In this follow-up post, we are going to implement the calculation in Excel. We continue to use Facebook as an example. http://tech.harbourfronts.com/trading/calculate-stock-beta-excel-replicating-yahoo-stock-beta/

This optical illusion discovered by a Japanese psychologist tells you if you have curvature blindness

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 16:25:28 +0000

This is an automated machine translation of an article published by Business Insider in a different language. Machine translations can generate errors or inaccuracies; we will continue the work to improve these translations. You can find the original version here.

Optical illusions make you rethink whether what you are seeing is real or not - therein lies their charm.

However, some of these visual tricks could go further and give you information about your own eye health.

There is an optical illusion discovered by experimental psychologist Kohske Takahashi of Japan's Chukyo University in 2017 capable of telling you if you suffer from curvature blindness, ScienceAlert reports.

6 ways to improve eyesight naturally and protect your vision

The findings published in i-Perception explain that not everyone sees the lines in the image above in the same way.

Look again if you need to. Do you see straight lines, wavy lines, straight lines, curved lines, zigzag lines perhaps?

Takahashi explains the importance of not always trusting what your eyes tell you when you look directly at something, as they sometimes create confusing images in your brain.

Most people see wavy, zigzag lines arranged in alternating pairs along the central gray area of the image.

40 mind-blowing optical illusions that have baffled half the world.

However, if you look at the lines at the ends where the background is black or white and you see all the lines in that area wavy, but some of the lines in the gray area are still pointy, you are suffering from curvature blindness. Don't worry, it's not a medical condition.

The reality is that all the lines in the image are curved, so Takahashi explains that this distinction in the brain could be a consequence of the way the eyes differentiate curves and corners in the real world, creating a conflict.

"We think that the underlying mechanisms for smooth curve perception and those for obtuse corner perception are competing with each other in an unbalanced way," Takahashi explains in his paper. "The corner percepts may be dominant in the visual system."

Harvard team of scientists successfully restores vision in mice

But why do you see zigzag lines? Takahashi has pointed out in The Telegraph that this may be because both the brain and the eyes have become better adapted over the years to recognize sharp shapes more easily than curved ones.

"We are surrounded by artificial products that have many more corners than the natural environment, and therefore our visual," adds the psychologist. "This visual phenomenon does not cause problems in our daily lives."

In addition, there are factors that contribute to generating this optical illusion, such as the shallowness of the wave and its smoothness, or the colors of the lines, where those arranged in zigzags have colors that accentuate the vertices, creating points of inflection.

Read the original article on Business Insider

options trading strategies

Credit risk rethought – The new data imperative

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 15:07:43 +0000

Derivative Valuation

Is Health Insurance Premiums Tax Deductible?

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 14:02:48 +0000

Many people have the same question, are health insurance premiums tax deductible? This is a very good question and one that you need to consider carefully. Taxation can be complicated but there are ways that it can be worked around too. There are also several situations where you may be able to deduct them from your taxes. There are also situations where you may not be eligible to do this.

The most obvious situation when are health insurance premiums tax deductible? If you use the policy as medical coverage, then you are going to be able to deduct it. This also applies to COBRA, as long as you are not at fault for the policy. If your health insurance company cancels your policy or gives you a notice saying you are not qualified, then you can claim it back. This may be the easiest way to go about this but the deductions are going to depend on whether you are self-employed or not.

Another situation that may allow you to claim back your premiums is if you lose your job or become injured. There are many situations where you may be able to get injured and use the injury as a reason for quitting your job. There are many other situations as well. These include things like death in the family or the loss of your home or vehicle. As long as you can prove that it was an accident related to your health, then you will probably be able to get your policy back.

One of the last questions is when are health insurance premiums tax deductible? The actual date that you will be able to claim this money back depends on several factors. The first is how long you have held your policy. In the case of people who have been with the same insurance company for a number of years, they may have longer to claim back.

Another factor to consider is if you have changed jobs. If you have moved from one company to another in the past year then you should be able to qualify for a prorated return. Usually, the company will have to wait around nine months before they are able to give you the money back. There are some situations though where this won't apply and in these situations are health insurance premiums tax deductible?

You need to check with your tax preparer to see what the regulations are regarding this and whether you would qualify for a prorated return. You also need to make sure that you are not paying too much out for your insurance. If you do qualify for this, you can get a substantial reduction from the premiums that you pay. You can claim the entire amount of the premiums and this will help to save you a lot of money. However, you still need to document the claim and you should always keep copies of any receipts that you are able to get for this purpose.

Photo by mikecohen1872

Google to launch its first foldable phone as Samsung ups the ante and starts making rollable screens

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 16:25:13 +0000

After Samsung and Huawei took forays into the world of foldable smartphones, Google could be the next manufacturer to enter this field. The company may be preparing its first folding mobile for 2021, as revealed by a patent that has recently been registered.

Google has registered the patent for a foldable smartphone at the World Intellectual Property Organization, and it shows a design with a hinge mechanism in several segments that resembles other foldable mobiles such as the Huawei Mate X or the Samsung Galaxy Fold, which allows for the opening and closing of the mobile.

This hinge would protrude towards the outside of the device and would be under the mobile, something that could prove troublesome when leaving it on a table, although it could also act as a support to leave it with the screen facing you.

The mobile screen, on the other hand, would face inward while the mobile is folded, protecting it from possible damage it could receive when in your pocket or on a table. But, at the same time, this has the disadvantage of having to open the cell phone every time you want to use it. Although the door to an external screen, as with the Galaxy Fold and Galaxy Z Flip, is open.

At the moment, nothing more is known about this device whose patent has just been published, but it is possible that as the project continues, more information about it will become known. It is likely that, as happened with Samsung and Huawei at the time, Google's folding mobile will not be its flagship as such, but a complementary mobile to this and with a much higher price.

Apple offers a new hint of what its future foldable iPhone could look like

Samsung, meanwhile, is already developing and manufacturing new rollable screens. The firm may seek to include technology such as variable refresh rate in this type of panels. These panels that could possibly be intended not only to increase its customer base but also to be used in some of its future cell phones. In fact, the only concept that Samsung has not yet explored is that of rollable cell phones.

Read the original article on Business Insider

options trading strategies

We are a boutique financial service firm specializing in quantitative analysis, derivative valuation and risk management. Our clients range from asset management firms to industrial, non-financial companies. Our services include: Valuation of financial de

Sat, 14 Nov 2020 13:50:46 +0000

We are a boutique financial service firm specializing in quantitative analysis, derivative valuation and risk management. Our clients range from asset management firms to industrial, non-financial companies. Our services include: Valuation of financial derivatives such as convertible bonds, mortgage backed securities, variance swaps, credit default swaps, collateral debt obligation #finance #derivative #risk #hedge #accounting #quantitative #trading #investing

Health Insurance Portability And Accountability Act

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 16:44:17 +0000

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 was enacted by the 404th United States Congress. It was created to protect individuals who need to change health insurance plans or providers due to changing health conditions or circumstances. It also encourages health insurance providers to allow change, regardless of whether the individual had coverage at the time the change takes effect. The Act is important for people who purchase insurance on their own and for employers who provide insurance to their employees. It encourages insurance companies and providers to cooperate with each other to provide adequate health insurance to all Americans. There are three main provisions under the Act that directly affect the insurance industry and health care providers.

The Act requires that all health insurance contracts are legally enforceable. It also requires all private health information technology systems to maintain certain standards of security. It also requires providers of health insurance to take measures to mitigate against unintentional disclosure of patients' health information to third parties. The Act also encourages companies and providers to work together to promote better patient care. One provision requires health information technology to periodically review security programs and recommend appropriate upgrades.

Both the health insurance portability and accountability act encourages providers and employers to consider electronic patient records (EPRS) a part of their EHBS or preferred provider organizations. Electronic health care records can include more than just date of birth or illness but can include a full medical history, discharge summary, surgical procedures, outpatient medication history, health plan documents, insurance claims, physician communications, and much more. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act also encourage health care providers and carriers to use EHRs to provide accurate and current health care records to patients.

Another provision of the health insurance portability and accountability act requires healthcare providers who do not use EHRs to give notice to patients and provide privacy protection protections. Healthcare providers are also required to update and make available to patients about their privacy security protections at least once each year. This is done through an Affidavit of Privacy Protection. Providers who fail to comply with this requirement may be subjected to fines.

An employer who does not have an EHR will still be required by law to provide employees access to their EHR. Employees may be required to designate a primary health care provider. EHR vendors must provide designated individuals with up-to-date, comprehensive health care reports on their health insurance coverage, including their Medicare and Medicaid coverage. The act also requires EHR vendors to provide notice of changes in policy, and procedures for choosing and purchasing health insurance, as well as how to cancel or change health insurance.

There are numerous regulations regarding health insurance portability and accountability, including definitions of terms, the rules for opting out of EHRs, and the reporting requirements. Each of these areas is the subject of a wide variety of State and Federal rules. Each year, numerous changes to the health insurance portability and accountability act are made in attempts to improve these systems.

Pair trading, or statistical arbitrage, is one of the oldest forms of quantitative trading. We are going to present some relevant statistical tests for analyzing the Australia/Canada pair. We chose this pair because these countries’ economies are tied str

Sun, 29 Nov 2020 13:31:36 +0000

Pair trading, or statistical arbitrage, is one of the oldest forms of quantitative trading. We are going to present some relevant statistical tests for analyzing the Australia/Canada pair. We chose this pair because these countries’ economies are tied strongly to the commodity sector, therefore they share similar characteristics and could be a good candidate for pair trading. #trading #statistics #arbitrage #volatility #quantitative #finance #python

Dow dips more than 100 points, falling for the first time in 3 days

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 15:45:05 +0000

On Tuesday, the Dow Jones Industrial Average gained more than 475 points.

options trading strategies

Enterprise Fund: Definition, Accounting, Importance, Example

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 01:28:09 +0000

There are several types of funds in governmental accounting, each serving specific purposes and accounting for different activities. These funds fall into three broad categories, including governmental, fiduciary, and proprietary funds. Furthermore, each category can have its classifications. One of the classifications within proprietary funds is enterprise funds.

What is an Enterprise Fund?

An enterprise fund in governmental accounting serves as a distinct financial mechanism to separate activities that closely resemble those of a private business or commercial entity. Unlike governmental funds catering to general government functions, enterprise funds are designated for self-sustaining ventures. These funds operate on a business model, generating revenue by selling goods or services to the public.

In essence, enterprise funds are a specialized accounting tool that enables governments to efficiently manage and track revenues and expenditures associated with business-oriented activities. By delineating these self-supporting ventures, such as utilities and transportation services, governments can better assess their financial viability.

How does the Enterprise Fund work?

Enterprise funds function as specialized financial entities within governmental structures, designed to manage business-like activities independently. The primary mechanism involves generating revenue by selling goods or services such as utilities, parking, or public transportation. The funds operate on a self-sufficiency principle, where the generated revenue covers all associated costs, including operational, maintenance, and capital expenses.

This separation facilitates distinct financial statements, budgeting, and accounting practices, providing clarity in evaluating the financial performance of each enterprise fund. Financial management within enterprise funds encompasses budgeting, accounting for assets and liabilities, and conducting regular performance evaluations. Performance evaluations help assess the efficiency and effectiveness of the funds.

What is the importance of the Enterprise Fund?

Enterprise funds hold significant importance within governmental structures, offering a strategic framework that enhances financial transparency and accountability. By segregating business-like activities, these funds enable clear and distinct financial reporting, providing stakeholders with an inclusive understanding of the performance of each self-sustaining operation. This transparency fosters public trust and facilitates effective decision-making by policymakers.

The direct correlation between revenue generation and associated costs ensures accountability, as financial challenges or successes get attributed to the specific enterprise fund. This separation promotes adherence to accounting standards and reporting requirements, contributing to accurate and reliable financial reporting that aligns with regulatory frameworks. Moreover, enterprise funds play a vital role in promoting efficient resource management and strategic decision-making.

What is the accounting for Enterprise Fund?

Accounting for enterprise funds involves thorough financial management to ensure transparency, accountability, and compliance within government operations. Significant financial statements, such as the Statement of Net Position and the Statement of Revenues, Expenses, and Changes in Fund Net Position, serve as crucial tools for portraying the financial health and performance of each enterprise fund.

Budgeting is crucial, guiding governments in outlining revenue expectations, expense allocations, and capital expenditures for business-like activities. Revenue recognition centers on accurately recording income earned through the sale of goods or services. On the other hand, expenses get recognized as incurred in delivering those services. Asset and liability accounting ensures the balance sheet reflects the infrastructure, equipment, and financial obligations with enterprise funds.

Conclusion

An enterprise fund is a fund category in governmental accounting. This category includes all revenues and expenses from goods or services provided to the public and is self-sustaining. Enterprise funds are highly crucial as they enhance transparency and accountability. The accounting for this fund occurs through the statement of net position and the statement of revenues, expenses, and changes in fund net position.

Originally Published Here: Enterprise Fund: Definition, Accounting, Importance, Example

Valuing American Options Using Monte Carlo Simulation –Derivative Pricing in Python

Thu, 30 Jul 2020 14:57:00 +0000

We are going to present a method for valuing American options using Monte Carlo simulation. This method will allow us to implement more complex option payoffs with greater flexibility, even if the payoffs are path-dependent. Specifically, we use the Least-Squares Method of Longstaff and Schwartz in order to take into account the early exercise feature. The stock price is assumed to follow the Geometrical Brownian Motion. http://tech.harbourfronts.com/derivatives/valuing-american-options-using-monte-carlo-simulation-derivative-pricing-python/

AstraZeneca says it's developing a 'next generation' COVID-19 vaccine to target fast-spreading variants, and it could be ready by Autumn

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 15:59:44 +0000

82-year-old Brian Pinker receives the Oxford University/AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine on January 4, 2021 in Oxford, England.

Steve Parsons - WPA Pool/Getty Images

UK pharma giant AstraZeneca and Oxford University are co-developing a 'next generation' COVID-19 vaccine.
These vaccines will be designed to combat coronavirus variants, including those found in the UK and South Africa.
Mene Pangalos, executive vice-president at AstraZeneca, said they're aiming to have it ready by autumn, per Reuters.
Visit the Business section of Insider for more stories.

AstraZeneca and Oxford University have co-developed a "next generation" COVID-19 vaccine to tackle new coronavirus variants, and it could be available in the Autumn, its executive vice-president said Wednesday.

"We're very much aiming to try and have something ready by the autumn, so this year," Mene Pangalos said, per Reuters.

AstraZeneca has already co-developed a COVID-19 vaccine that is authorized for emergency use in the UK, the EU, and seven other countries.

But there is a drive for new vaccines that specifically target coronavirus variants. Studies suggest the shots available right now may not work as well on certain variants, especially against a mutation found in the variant from South Africa. This mutation has also been detected in some cases of the variant found in the UK.

Both of these variants have been identified in the US.

"We're working very hard and we're already talking about not just the variants that we have to make in laboratories, but also the clinical studies that we need to run," Pangalos said.

Pfizer and Moderna - drugmakers that have also developed existing COVID-19 shots - are working on ways of protecting against coronavirus variants too.

Pfizer said January 26 that it was working on booster shots. Moderna said January 25 that it would develop a new version of its COVID-19 shot to fight 501.Y.V2, the variant found in South Africa.

UK pharma giant GlaxoSmithKline announced Wednesday that it has agreed to co-develop vaccines to target multiple coronavirus variants at once with German biotech CureVac.

Read the original article on Business Insider

options trading strategies

Chipotle is doubling down on drive-thru 'Chipotlanes' as they prove successful - here's what it's like to use one

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 15:38:24 +0000

The logo of Chipotle Mexican Grill is seen at the Chipotle Next Kitchen in Manhattan

Reuters

Chipotle added drive-thrus to some locations, called Chipotlanes.
I tried out the new Chipotlane in Canandaigua, New York.
Chipotlanes are part of the trend of fast-food chains investing in drive-thru and app technology.
Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Chipotle joined other fast food brands investing in drive-thru technology and online ordering with Chipotlanes. I visited one in Canandaigua, New York to document the experience.

By early 2019, Chipotle had 10 US Chipotlanes, and executives told Insider that they planned to open dozens more, while also investing in digital ordering. Chipotle's digital sales exploded during the COVID-19 pandemic, making up more than half of sales in 2020. Now, the brand is investing in building more online-order only "Chipotlanes" and opening new locations. CEO Brian Niccol said in an earnings call that Chipotle plans to more than double its locations.

With promising results from the fourth quarter of 2020, the new drive-thru lanes look like a key to the chain's continued success. According to analysts from Stifel, Chipotle shows some of the"most compelling unit growth prospects" based on the success of Chipotlanes.

The expansion comes as fast-food and fast-casual brands across the country are optimizing drive-thrus. Drive-thru orders have grown across the fast-food industry since the pandemic closed many dining rooms. McDonald's, already a drive-thru heavy hitter with 25,000 worldwide, says that 70% of sales in top markets are drive-thru orders. Even salad chain Sweetgreen is jumping on the trend.

Chipotle works on an assembly line type model, where customers move down the line of ingredients to choose what they want in a burrito or bowl. Chipotle locations also run a second assembly line behind the scenes dubbed the "digital make line" in 2019. That section is focused on making mobile and delivery orders, the kind that would make up business at a Chipotlane. With digital sales exploding, Chipotle announced plans to hire 10,000 new employees to handle digital sales this summer.

Here's what it's like to order from a Chipotlane.

Downloading the Chipotle app is necessary for all mobile orders. When the app is open, it shows nearby Chipotle locations, and specifically marks Chipotlane locations.

Chipotle app.

Chipotle

Select a particular restaurant to get the exact address, phone number, and hours. From there, you can choose to order from that location or favorite it.

Chipotle app.

Chipotle

From there, the entire menu is on the app. I actually prefer digital ordering at Chipotle in particular because the line doesn't get held up by one person looking at the options.

Chipotle app.

Chipotle

It's also easy to duplicate orders and add on sides like chips and guac before checkout.

Chipotle app.

Chipotle

You can choose to either pickup in the drive-thru or inside when you place your order.

Chipotle app.

Chipotle

You also choose a pickup time so your food is ready when you get there.

Chipotle app.

Chipotle

Pay with Apple Pay or another credit card by entering information into the app.

Chipotle app.

Chipotle

The actual Chipotle, which opened in December, was not very busy. It was in a strip mall-like plaza with a few other stores and an urgent care center.

Chipotlane.

Mary Meisenzahl/Insider

The doors advertised contactless pickup and delivery, although you could also go inside and order at the counter.

Chipotlane.

Mary Meisenzahl/Insider

For online orderers who opted not to use the drive-thru, a pickup counter had orders set out by last name.

Chipotlane.

Mary Meisenzahl/Insider

But we weren't here for that. Outside, signs directed drivers to the drive-thru.

Chipotlane.

Mary Meisenzahl/Insider

The drive-thru is fairly standard, without the multiple lanes or interactive boards some brands are adding. It only has one window though, because it is only for picking up food; all ordering and payment is already done by the time you get there.

Chipotlane.

Mary Meisenzahl/Insider

The food comes in a large paper bag with a receipt stapled on it.

Chipotlane.

Mary Meisenzahl/Insider

Each individual order, like my burrito bowl, also has a sticker with the name and ingredients, so you can immediately see that you got the right order.

Chipotlane.

Mary Meisenzahl/Insider

Drive-thrus and mobile ordering are the future and we're only going to see more of it. Also it's ideal for a place like Chipotle with a lot of customization

Read the original article on Business Insider

options trading strategies

Trend-Following Trading System, Quantitative Trading In Python

Wed, 05 May 2021 23:12:36 +0000

In a previous post, we demonstrated the mean-reverting and trending properties of SP500. We subsequently developed a trading system based on the mean-reverting behavior of the index. In this installment, we will develop a trend-following trading strategy. http://tech.harbourfronts.com/trend-following-trading-system-quantitative-trading-in-python/

Are AI-Powered Hedge Funds Outperforming?

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 19:07:17 +0000

Are AI-Powered Hedge Funds Outperforming?

Performance share units are hypothetical share units that are granted to you based mainly on corporate and/or individual performance. Structurally, they are very similar to restricted stock units except these are more focused on your performance. They are

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 16:37:35 +0000

Performance share units are hypothetical share units that are granted to you based mainly on corporate and/or individual performance. Structurally, they are very similar to restricted stock units except these are more focused on your performance. They are designed to mirror share ownership and you will generally be granted additional units having the same value as dividends being paid on the regular shares. #stock #option #finance #market #trading #investing #risk

Parkinson Historical Volatility Calculation – Volatility Analysis in Python

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 19:54:25 +0000

A disadvantage of using the CCHV is that it does not take into account the information about intraday prices. The Parkinson volatility extends the CCHV by incorporating the stock’s daily high and low prices. http://tech.harbourfronts.com/trading/parkinson-historical-volatility-calculation-volatility-analysis-python/

Another reason for third stimulus checks: Jobless benefits not reaching 8 million people

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 16:58:12 +0000

Three in 4 unemployed workers don't get jobless benefits, making a third round of stimulus checks the best way to offer support, according to a analysis.

options trading strategies

Understanding Your Health Insurance Deductible

Sat, 27 Feb 2021 16:31:30 +0000

Health insurance is a necessity and one that everyone needs, but if you do not have health insurance you are paying for it in the form of a tax. If you are on a fixed income or are single it may seem like an impossibility to find health insurance tax deductible medical plans, but with a little research, you can find them. There are many people who would like to save money but are unsure how. Medical insurance is something that everyone needs to have and a tight economy making it even more difficult for many to afford the policy they need. When researching your options and making comparisons, be sure to look into the option of a health insurance tax-deductible plan.

These plans are very easy to understand. The insurance company pays for the medical expenses of their insured once a month. You are reimbursed by a monthly fee to the health insurance company after you file your claim. Most health insurance plans offer a free annual physical exam, which must be done by a licensed doctor and a nurse practitioner. You will then be reimbursed for the cost of the visit.

Tax deductions are available for some medical procedures, so make sure to look into the options of the different types of policies available. A good tip is to get a general idea of how much the procedure will cost before talking to an insurance professional about the details. Some deductibles can be paid upfront, while others require that payments be made at a certain amount before the benefits kick in. It is a good idea to get all of the information you can so that you are sure to have enough to pay for the procedure.

Make sure to talk to several different insurance providers before settling on one that you feel comfortable with. The premiums of a plan can differ dramatically from company to company. You will also want to inquire about the maximum amount of out-of-pocket costs that you will need to pay each month. Many plans offer a catastrophic benefit that will pay for major medical care like surgery. Talk to your provider about this so that you can determine if it is something that you really need.

Another factor that can play a role in determining your health insurance deductible is your age. If you are younger than 25, you will need to pay more on your premiums than someone who is older. Medical underwriting standards are used in all insurance plans, and these will be a deciding factor for what your deductible is. Generally, your premiums will be higher as you age. However, this can be used as a marketing strategy by many companies to encourage younger people to sign up for their plans.

Once you know the total cost of the procedure that you are going to have, you can then begin to calculate the amount of your deductible. The lower your deductible is, the less money you will have to pay out of pocket. This can help you to budget your health insurance costs if you are having major medical care on a regular basis. While the deductible may not seem like much money at first, if you do not have any medical pre-existing conditions, then you can save a lot of money in the long run. Your health insurance deductible can go a long way towards keeping you from having major surgery and other emergency situations that might require major medical treatment.

The best places to buy groceries online in 2021

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 16:04:21 +0000

Shopping for groceries online can be a convenient way to save time.
Our top pick is Instacart because it's widely available nationwide without a membership fee, and you can "shop" locally.
Due to the novel coronavirus pandemic, you may experience delays and low inventory for pantry and cleaning supplies.
Many services have also updated their policies to reduce social interactions, support the shopper community, and more.

Online grocery shopping is an incredibly convenient way to shop without crowded aisles and rogue shopping carts in the parking lot. Though it's not for those who want to pick their own fruit or get the double coupon discount on pasta, shopping for your groceries online is a great way to save time if you're willing to relinquish some control.

Of course, you should expect to pay a bit more than you would if you'd just shopped yourself. Most online grocery stores and delivery programs include subscription costs, delivery fees, and the option to tip your shopper or driver - which we suggest you do. Some services have steeper fees than others, but all are convenient ways to get what you need.

In our guide to the best online grocery stores, we break down all the costs, how the services work, and more, to ensure your produce and pantry items arrive fresh and in a timely manner.

Here are the best places to buy groceries online in 2021

Best online grocery store for shopping local: Instacart
Best online grocery store for bulk items: Boxed
Best online grocery store on a budget: Walmart
Best online grocery store for Amazon Prime members: Amazon Fresh
Best online grocery store for organic groceries: Thrive Market

The best for shopping local

Instacart partners with local grocery and convenience stores in your area, doesn't require a membership to shop, and is available in most zip codes throughout the country.

Instacart

Note: As of 2/3/2021, Instacart has added thousands of shoppers to its community as well as "Fast & Flexible" & "Order Ahead" options to ensure more delivery windows amid fluctuating delivery slot availability and stock shortages. It recommends authorizing replacement products if your item is out of stock and staying by the phone while your order is being fulfilled to answer any questions your shopper may have. It has also introduced a Senior Support Service to provide seniors with extra help setting up an account, navigating the site, and placing an order. Instacart also has a contactless delivery option to allow your shopper to leave your order outside your door.

Pros: Shop via your local grocery store, no membership required, most widely available grocery delivery service

Cons: 5% service fee, delivery fees go up at more popular times

Instacart is the industry leader in grocery delivery, serving 85% of households in the United States and 70% in Canada. Its far reach is due to its strategy of partnering with local grocery stores for distribution, so you can shop local and get the food you need from the stores you already trust and patronize.

To start shopping, you simply enter your zip code and your email address. From there, you select the store you want to shop from — I had 29 options to shop from in my Brooklyn neighborhood including Fairway, Shop Rite, and even non-grocery stores like Petco, CVS, and Target.

You can browse through the store's offerings based on categories like produce, snacks, drinks, etc., or you can search for the item you want using the search bar at the top of the page. If an item is low in stock, you can authorize a replacement product if your shopper can't get their hands on the original item. You can also choose to not replace it, and the cost of the missing item will be deducted from your bill.

With Instacart, your order will be handled by one of their shoppers who goes to the store, shops for your items, and then delivers them to you rather than being fulfilled at a warehouse and then shipped to you via a postal service, so you can expect a bit more care to be taken with your fruits and vegetables.

The service fees are where prices start to mount. There's a baseline $3.99 delivery fee on each order, but if you choose a more popular delivery slot, the fee can jump up to either $5.99 or $9.99. You can get your groceries delivered in as little as an hour or you can schedule them to be delivered to you up to a week in advance. The more immediate slots often have higher delivery fees, so it might be smart to plan ahead and save a couple of bucks.

On top of the delivery fee, you'll see a 5% service fee added to your order, and if your order includes alcohol, there's an additional fee. It's highly suggested that you tip your shopper for their service. If you're putting in a big order and you pick a slot with a low delivery fee, the additional cost will likely be worth it, but it can be hard to justify the extra dollars on small orders.

If you want to eliminate delivery fees, you can sign up for Instacart Express for either $9.99 a month or $99 a year and you'll receive unlimited free delivery for all orders over $35. If you shop frequently, this fee will pay for itself in no time, but unfortunately, you're still on the hook for a service fee — but it will be a cheaper one, starting at 1.9% — and any gratuity you add to the order.

Senior editor Jada Wong has been using the service for six years and Instacart Express for the past four. It's saved her hours of shopping at physical grocery stores and she's never had a problem with shoppers choosing spoiled fruits or vegetables.

Read our full review of Instacart here.

The best for bulk items

Boxed delivers bulk items at discount prices without a membership fee and the delivery fee is waived for all orders over $49.

Boxed

Note: As of 2/3/2021, standard Boxed orders are no longer experiencing shipping delays. However, Boxed Express time slots may fill up quickly and some items may be out of stock. All deliveries of Express orders will be left on your doorstep for contactless delivery.

Pros: No membership required, prices match or beat big-box bulk stores like Costco

Cons: Bulk items and perishable items are delivered separately

When you think of bulk grocery shopping, big-box membership-oriented stores like Costco or Sam's Club probably come to mind. But if you're looking to buy in bulk, save while doing it, and avoid membership fees, Boxed is here to make that a reality. You'll find all your favorite brands in oversized quantities at wholesale prices.

Insider Reviews freelancer Holly Johnson used Boxed to order staples for her family, and she was thrilled to find such low prices. She wrote, "Using Boxed for bulk supplies lets me keep my grocery orders to a minimum while getting good prices on the staples my family loves. I know because I have taken the time to compare pricing for bulk purchases at Costco and Amazon, and Boxed is comparable or better most of the time."

Small and handy perks, including free samples with your order, a group ordering feature, and a convenient reorder feature, also make shopping easier.

Standard Boxed orders — featuring only non-perishables — are packed at the Boxed warehouse and shipped to you, and you'll get free shipping on all orders over $49. If you're looking to add perishable items to your grocery order, you can opt to buy through Boxed Express in certain locations — enter your zip code to see if you're eligible.

With Boxed Express, your order will be hand-delivered in reusable tote bags at a delivery time you choose upon checkout. Boxed Express has a $20 minimum order, and there's a $6.99 delivery fee for orders costing less than $65. Orders of $65 or more are eligible for free delivery. Unfortunately, there's no way to combine the deliveries of your perishable and non-perishable goods because they're supplied through different streams. You can order them at the same time though.

Read our full Boxed review.

The best on a budget

You can get the same low prices with Walmart Grocery as you've come to expect with the big-box store.

Walmart

Note: As of 2/3/2021, Walmart accepts SNAP EBT if you pick up your order. The site also now lets you see and choose your delivery slot before you start filling your cart.

Pros: Prices are the same as in-store, no service fees beyond the $9.95 delivery, free pick-up option, free delivery for Walmart+ members

Cons: Can only schedule for same-day or next-day delivery, can't see delivery availability until after you fill your cart

While many grocery delivery services charge a premium on products, Walmart's prices remain consistent whether you're buying in-store or online for delivery or pick-up, making it the most budget-friendly choice for grocery delivery.

Through Walmart Grocery's online portal or mobile app, you can search for and select groceries from all aisles of the supermarket, from dry goods to frozen pizza to milk, eggs, and produce. A Walmart employee will go through the store and put your order together for you, scanning each item as they go to ensure you get everything you paid for.

Upon checking out, you'll select whether you want to pick up your order from a local store or have it delivered to your home. If you select pick-up, you'll head to the Walmart location you select and pick up your order at whatever time you choose. There's no additional fee to pick up your groceries, so you'll just pay for the items themselves.

Delivery will cost a flat $9.95 with no other service or delivery fees added in, so you don't have to worry about hidden costs stacking up. To eliminate those fees entirely, you can sign up for Walmart+ for $12.95 a month or $98 a year — well worth it if you order groceries from Walmart more than once a month. You do have to meet a $35 order minimum, whether you're a Walmart+ member or not, but a weekly grocery haul should take you over that limit easily. It's also encouraged to tip your delivery person, but it is not required.

You can choose one-hour time slots for delivery on your desired day. If you need your order within two hours, there's an Express option at checkout for select stores.

The best for Amazon Prime members

Access to AmazonFresh is included with your Prime membership, you'll get free delivery on grocery orders over $50.

Monika Skolimowska/picture alliance via Getty Images

Note: As of 2/2/2021, AmazonFresh appears to be back to normal operations. There is an option to select "unattended delivery" upon checkout, which allows your delivery person to leave your groceries outside your door or in a location you specify for contactless drop-off.

Pros: Free access with Amazon Prime membership, free delivery over $50, Whole Foods 365 products available

Cons: Must be a Prime member to order

Not to be confused with Prime Pantry where you can bundle non-perishables and household goods in order to qualify for Prime shipping, AmazonFresh is a standalone service and Amazon's answer to the digital grocery stores like Walmart Grocery and Instacart. Unlike Prime Pantry, AmazonFresh allows you to order produce, dairy, meats, and other perishable items on top of pantry staples and dry goods.

You'll have to be a Prime member to access AmazonFresh, so if you're not already paying the $119 annual fee for Prime, you might be better off checking out one of the other grocery delivery services in our guide. You can also sign up for a free 30-day trial to take advantage of AmazonFresh as well as more than 20 other benefits.

If you're a current Prime member, AmazonFresh is by far the most affordable way to get groceries delivered. Orders over $50 ship free while orders under that threshold incur a $9.99 delivery fee, so you're best off meeting the minimum in order to save yourself some extra money.

The interface looks exactly like you're shopping on Amazon — because you are. Scroll through carousels of categories like produce, meat, and snacks, or use the search bar at the top of the page to find exactly what you're looking for. Each item has a quick-add button that places the item right in your card. Because Amazon owns Whole Foods, you'll also be able to order Whole Foods' 365 brand from We are going to discuss valuation of a callable bond. We chose the Hull-White model to describe the interest rate dynamics. We then use a Python program to build a trinomial tree for the risk-free rates #derivative #trading #risk #hedge #python #investment #bond

CMBC MSTAR shines in volatile markets

Thu, 13 Aug 2020 12:23:24 +0000

Derivative Valuation

Daily Trading Limit

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 14:20:10 +0000

In the world of finance, the concept of the daily trading limit plays a crucial role in maintaining stability and preventing extreme volatility in the markets. Let's delve into what daily trading limits are, their purposes, how they work, and some criticisms surrounding their implementation.

What is the Daily Trading Limit?

The daily trading limit, also known as the price limit or circuit breaker, is a predetermined threshold imposed by stock exchanges to regulate the price movement of a security within a single trading session. These limits are designed to prevent excessive fluctuations in prices and curb panic-driven buying or selling, thereby promoting market stability.

Purposes of Daily Trading Limits

Price Stability: One of the primary purposes of daily trading limits is to maintain stability in the financial markets by preventing rapid and extreme price movements. By imposing limits on how much a security's price can change within a single trading session, exchanges aim to minimize disruptions and foster investor confidence.
Risk Management: Daily trading limits serve as a risk management tool for market participants, including investors, traders, and brokerage firms. By implementing price constraints, exchanges mitigate the potential for large losses resulting from sudden price swings, thereby protecting market participants from excessive risk exposure.

Limit Up and Limit Down

The daily trading limit typically consists of two components: the limit up and the limit down.

- Limit Up: The limit up refers to the maximum price increase allowed for a security during a single trading session. When a security's price reaches the limit-up threshold, trading may be temporarily halted, preventing further price escalation.

- Limit Down: Conversely, the limit down represents the maximum price decrease permitted for a security within a trading session. If a security's price hits the limit down level, trading may be halted to prevent further downward pressure on prices.

Example of Daily Trading Limit

Suppose Company XYZ's stock is subject to a daily trading limit of 10%. If the stock's price increases by more than 10% from its previous closing price, trading may be halted temporarily to allow market participants to digest the new information and prevent speculative trading activity.

Criticism of Daily Trading Limits

While daily trading limits serve important purposes, they have also faced criticism from some quarters. Critics argue that:

- Market Inefficiency: Daily trading limits can sometimes impede the efficient pricing of securities by preventing prices from reflecting new information in a timely manner.

- Reduced Liquidity: Trading halts triggered by daily trading limits can lead to reduced liquidity in the market, making it challenging for investors to buy or sell securities at desired prices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while daily trading limits play a crucial role in maintaining market stability and managing risk, they are not without their drawbacks. Striking the right balance between stability and efficiency remains a key challenge for regulators and market participants alike as they navigate the dynamic landscape of financial markets.

Article Source Here: Daily Trading Limit

JOIN OUR EVENT FEBRUARY 10: Hear from healthcare's biggest VCs on the future of digital health, biotech, and startups

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 16:33:49 +0000

Oak HC/FT; Venrock; CRV; Menlo Ventures; Samantha Lee/Business Insider

By most measures, 2020 was a pivotal year for healthcare. The coronavirus pandemic upended U.S. healthcare as we know it, highlighting brutal disparities in quality and access to care while pushing many hospitals to the financial brink. There was also a historically fast vaccine development and emergency authorization process, and large-scale testing the likes of which the United States had never attempted before.

The unrelenting attention on the U.S. healthcare system has driven record levels of investor interest, leading to all-time high fundraising amounts and eye-catching mergers and IPOs. Investors and other industry insiders have maintained that the pandemic, for all its devastation and upheaval, have pushed the healthcare industry forward 10 years in just six months.

Join us on Wednesday, February 10, at 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT as Business Insider's senior healthcare reporter Megan Hernbroth hosts a live panel discussion with prominent healthcare venture capitalists on the future of healthcare.

In this webinar, we will talk to some of healthcare's most notable investors including CRV's Kristin Baker Spohn, Menlo Ventures partner Greg Yap, Oak HC/FT's Andrew Adams, and Venrock partner Racquel Bracken.

These insiders will give a glimpse into what the industry is talking about after a tumultuous year in healthcare, and share their predictions for what is still to come in 2021.

Register for our event here if you're a Business Insider subscriber.

If not, you can sign up here.

Read the original article on Business Insider

options trading strategies

Exponentially Weighted Historical Volatility In Excel

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 23:50:24 +0000

We use the Exponential Weighted (EW) historical volatility that assigns bigger weights to the recent returns, and smaller weights to the past ones. The EWHV is more responsive than the equally weighted historical volatility. Also, the decline of the EWHV from its peak is smoother than that of the equally weighted HV. http://tech.harbourfronts.com/exponentially-weighted-historical-volatility-in-excel-volatility-analysis-in-excel/

Why investors were willing to write Robinhood a $3 billion check during the GameStop chaos

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 17:52:48 +0000

Venture capital investors doubled down on investments in Robinhood even as the company scrambled to raise billions of dollars to meet new capital requirements.

options trading strategies

In a previous post, we presented theory and a practical example of calculating implied volatility for a given stock option. In this post, we are going to implement a model for forecasting the implied volatility. Specifically, we are going to use the Autor

Sat, 31 Oct 2020 22:07:18 +0000

In a previous post, we presented theory and a practical example of calculating implied volatility for a given stock option. In this post, we are going to implement a model for forecasting the implied volatility. Specifically, we are going to use the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model to forecast the volatility index, #VIX #volatility #trading #econometrics #python #finance #investing

Garman-Klass-Yang-Zhang Historical Volatility Calculation – Volatility Analysis in Python

Tue, 28 Jul 2020 18:18:52 +0000

We present an extension of the Garman-Klass volatility estimator that also takes into consideration overnight jumps. Garman-Klass-Yang-Zhang (GKYZ) volatility estimator consists of using the returns of open, high, low, and closing prices in its calculation. It also uses the previous day’s closing price. http://tech.harbourfronts.com/trading/garman-klass-yang-zhang-historical-volatility-calculation-volatility-analysis-python/

The trend in the increased holding of risky assets continues. Because of Covid-19, the big banks now hold more illiquid, opaque assets than before. #debt #bond #loan #mortgage #risk #investing #equity

Tue, 25 Aug 2020 11:07:24 +0000

The trend in the increased holding of risky assets continues. Because of Covid-19, the big banks now hold more illiquid, opaque assets than before. #debt #bond #loan #mortgage #risk #investing #equity

A warrant is a financial derivative instrument that is similar to a regular stock option except that when it is exercised, the company will issue more stocks and sell them to the warrant holder. The valuation of warrants is similar to the valuation of sto

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 13:25:39 +0000

A warrant is a financial derivative instrument that is similar to a regular stock option except that when it is exercised, the company will issue more stocks and sell them to the warrant holder. The valuation of warrants is similar to the valuation of stock options except that the effect of dilution should be considered. #stock #option #quant #risk #investing #trading #volatility #warrant

Watch Robinhood's first-ever Super Bowl commercial, which will further fuel its massive download numbers

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 16:19:07 +0000

A still from Robinhood's 2021 Super Bowl ad

Robinhood/YouTube

Robinhood will air a 30-second ad during this weekend's Super Bowl.
The app has made headlines for a short-squeeze saga involving GameStop and other stocks.
The commercial is its first Super Bowl spot.
Visit the Business section of Insider for more stories.

Robinhood will air a 30-second ad during this weekend's Super Bowl in the wake of a tumultuous few weeks for the online brokerage.

The commercial - Robinhood's first to run during a Super Bowl game - arrives at a crucial time for the company and will only further increase its awareness among mainstream audiences and undoubtedly lead to even more downloads of the stock-trading app.

In the ad, posted to Youtube on Wednesday, footage of people going about their daily lives plays as a voice-over says, "We are all investors." The message echoes Robinhood's stated mission to remove barriers to investing, with the voice telling viewers that they don't need to become an investor, because they "were born one."

Robinhood's motto is "Democratizing finance for all," and that accessibility is part of what attracted amateur traders, many of them from the WallStreetBets forum on Reddit, to buy up GameStop, AMC, and other stocks on the platform last week.

But Robinhood was met with outcry after it temporarily froze trading last week to meet clearing house regulations. Though the freeze has been lifted, the app still has trading restrictions and limits for several of the short-squeezed stocks.

The Wall Street Journal reported that Robinhood bought the ad time in December, and that a person familiar with the company's internal workings said there were discussions about whether to pull the spot in the wake of public outcry.

GameStop shares appear to be trending downwards - Tuesday saw them dip 85% below an all-time peak of $483, according to Markets Insider. Meanwhile, politicians from both parties are calling for hearings to investigate their trading practices.

Despite a surge of negative reviews and even a chartered plane trailing a banner expressing users' frustration with Robinhood, the app saw a rise in downloads last week. Insider reported Wednesday that its downloads increased nearly twofold last week versus the week before.

Judging by YouTubers' reactions to the new ad spot, the reaction has been mixed. As of 10:15 a.m. EST on Wednesday, the video posted Wednesday morning had 13 likes and 375 dislikes on YouTube.

Read the original article on Business Insider

options trading strategies

How Often Do Credit Card Frauds Get Caught?

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 16:25:14 +0000

How often do credit card frauds get caught? Every day thousands of dollars are lost by American consumers to fraudsters. Some people will try their luck on a huge scale, some will use just a few stolen credit cards and some will use one card as a sieve to sieve through the contents of another card. The sad fact is that most honest people do fall victim to credit card fraud.

To understand how often do credit card frauds get caught, it is good to know what the credit card companies do to protect themselves. All major companies make online transactions possible to ensure that they keep their businesses running. This can be done easily with encryption technology, which is built into all credit cards and the computer systems which process the information. Once this security has been put into place, the company cannot be robbed at any time, not even when the victim's personal details are no longer available. This is a measure adopted by all major credit card companies to make online transactions safe.

If you are an adult, you should be worried about how often do credit card frauds get caught if your parents' credit cards are lost or stolen. Most credit card companies will contact the cardholder and advise them of any unauthorized transactions made using their card. You will normally be charged for these charges and some companies may even add a small charge for informing them of the fraudulent activity. If you are still using the card, you will have to cancel it and inform the fraud department. They will investigate and will either cancel your card or recover it.

Another common way, how often do credit card fraudsters get caught is through the mail. Spammers will make use of the post office to send out unsolicited cards. Some will also target mail that contains sensitive personal information that can only be accessed by the owner. They may steal your address and other details to make online transactions more convenient for themselves.

Many people do not report credit card frauds because they are embarrassed or do not want to believe that they have been a victim. It is therefore important for you to understand how often do credit card frauds get caught before you inform the police or your bank. This way, you will be in a much better position to tell them what has happened and help them to take the appropriate actions.

How often do credit card frauds get caught also depends on how you use your card. If you are not planning to make online purchases, you will not get riled by a sudden charge. But if you tend to buy stuff online on a regular basis and keep track of your purchases, then chances are high that you will end up as a victim. Remember that there are many ways you can commit card fraud, but you can avoid these by following the rules set by your bank and the issuer of your card.

Modern Portfolio Theory-Portfolio Management in Python

Sat, 05 Dec 2020 21:54:13 +0000

Harry M. Markowitz is the founder of Modern Portfolio Theory (MPT) which originated from his 1952 essay on portfolio selection. In this post, we are going to provide a concrete example of implementing MPT in Python. Our portfolio consists of 3 Exchange Traded Funds (ETF): SPY, TLT, and GLD which track the S&P500, long-term Treasury bond, and gold respectively. http://tech.harbourfronts.com/trading/modern-portfolio-theory-portfolio-management-python/

Using APR Credit Utilization Calculators

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 18:21:35 +0000

A credit card utilization calculator is a useful financial tool for anyone who needs it. This financial tool is a financial comparison of how much you spend on your credit cards versus the amount of money that you earn in a given month. It evaluates your credit card utilization ratio. Your credit utilization ratio is the exact ratio of what you are spending versus the amount of money that you are earning. If you are carrying a high credit card balance, the higher your credit card utilization ratio will be, which means that you are getting more credit card offers and being charged a higher interest rate.

In your search for an appropriate credit card utilization calculator, use the free online version at the Bankrate website to evaluate your credit score. Enter your credit card utilization ratio in the provided box. Once you click the submit button, you will obtain your report and you can instantly see your credit score from the report. There is also a guide explaining how to use the tool.

Once you have evaluated your credit card utilization ratio, determine what type of credit cards best suits you. Now you have to determine how much credit limit you need for the type of credit card that you want. For example, if you need a credit card to cover emergency expenses, a debit card is a better option than a credit card. You can easily get a line of credit by using an electronic check. You can easily convert the check into cash with your bank.

Also, take a look at the interest-free credit cards and the transferable credit cards that you can obtain. The best free cards would be those that offer a zero percent balance transfer fee as well as the longest terms possible. These types of cards are very convenient especially for people with poor credit reports. The best free credit cards would be those offered by banks or other institutions with no interest fees.

Your credit card utilization ratio calculator can also be used to calculate an ideal monthly payment amount. This is essential for people who are planning to buy a house or a car. You can plug in your estimated monthly salary and the interest rate into this calculator to get an estimate of the amount you will need to pay for your new purchase. This would be more accurate than the conventional method of estimating.

Other things that can be done with the help of the APR credit utilization calculator are those involving refinancing, mortgage, and student loans. There are a lot of other things you can do with it such as those involving insurance, real estate, automobiles, and a host of others. You can even plug in your tax information to calculate your tax advantages. In essence, you can make an accurate estimation of how much you will be paying on your debt by using the most recent version of the APR credit utilization calculator.

GameStop and other meme stocks rebound after sharp sell-off as Reddit traders 'hold the line'

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 16:08:22 +0000

Ethan Miller/Getty Images

GameStop, AMC, and other retail-trader favorites rebounded as the Reddit-fueled rally regained steam.
On Tuesday, a cohort of highly volatile stocks plummeted as investors secured profits and minimized losses.
The day-trader crowd is at a crossroads: Repeat recent weeks' wild rallies, or cash out.
Sign up here for our daily newsletter, 10 Things Before the Opening Bell.

GameStop, AMC Entertainment, and other Reddit darlings rebounded on Wednesday as retail investors banded together to "hold the line." The phrase has become a popular rallying cry on the Wall Street Bets subreddit among day traders hoping to preserve recent gains.

The group of highly shorted stocks plunged on Tuesday - including a 60% single-day drop for GameStop - as investors looked to secure gains or minimize losses.

The investors are at a crossroads: They can try again at bidding the names higher, or run for the exit.

Trading on Wednesday suggested that the coordination that powered last week's climb was wavering. GameStop rose as much as 26% in early trading, while AMC gained as much as 14%. BlackBerry climbed 4% at intraday highs, while Nokia and Bed Bath & Beyond posted similarly modest gains.

More-seasoned investors had repeatedly said that while some day traders could mint small fortunes through the Reddit-fueled surge, many who entered the trade late stood to lose big. The parabolic nature of the stocks' rally also lends itself to a similarly steep crash as profit-taking spurs others to sell out of concern that they'll be the last ones holding their shares.

It's possible the retail investors were encouraged by the easing of trading restrictions by Robinhood and other broker-dealers. Several trading platforms last week temporarily blocked investors from buying shares of GameStop, AMC, and other highly volatile stocks, saying they were trying to protect clients from unprecedented market risk.

Those policies have been somewhat reversed, allowing the army of day traders to continue buying at least some shares this week.

GameStop and most of the other so-called meme stocks still trade well above where they sat at the start of the year. Some companies have used the phenomenon to their advantage; AMC paid down debts and sold stock at extraordinary highs to extend its cash runway. Weeks after warning that it could go bankrupt, the company leveraged the retail-trader frenzy to stay afloat.

"The sun is shining on AMC," CEO Adam Aron said in a statement on January 25, adding that any talk of imminent bankruptcy was "completely off the table."

GameStop closed at $90 on Tuesday, up 367% year-to-date.

AMC closed at $7.82, up 262% year-to-date.

Read the original article on Business Insider

options trading strategies

Employee Stock Options-Derivative Pricing in Python

Sun, 02 Aug 2020 22:15:29 +0000

Valuation of Employee Stock Options is different from regular stock options. In this post, we are going to implement the approach proposed by Hull and White. Specifically, we are going to implement the vesting and forfeiture rate features. Other features can also be implemented without difficulty http://tech.harbourfronts.com/derivatives/employee-stock-options-derivative-pricing-python/

Airlines will now allow passengers to fly without masks after Biden's mandate allows for medical exemptions

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 16:40:45 +0000

Airlines are cracking down on flyers not wearing masks while flying.

Solomiya Malovana/Shutterstock

American Airlines and Alaska Airlines issued new policies that allow exceptions for mask-wearing.
Flyers with a medical condition who get a doctor's note and negative COVID-19 test can go maskless.
President Biden issued an executive order mandating mask-wearing on all public transportation.
Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's mask mandate for air travel took effect on February 2, requiring flyers to mask up or face the consequences following an executive order from President Joe Biden. But as the policy goes federal, the Americans with Disabilities Act is pumping the brakes on enforcement when it comes to some flyers.

Specifically exempted from the order are those who can't wear a mask due to a medical condition, as part of the few exceptions allowed by the CDC. Other carve-outs include flyers younger than two years of age and those who cannot wear a mask due to workplace safety regulations.

Airlines had cracked down on medical exemptions to the face mask rule over the summer but the consequence of having the federal government step in is now requiring them to relent.

American Airlines, after banning medical exemptions in July, is allowing those with a doctor's note and a negative COVID-19 test to eschew the mask while flying. That's provided the note is supplied to the airline's special assistance team beyond 72 hours from boarding and the COVID-19 test is taken within three calendar days of departure or the flyer shows proof of recovery.

The order doesn't regulate exactly how airlines have to accommodate exempted passengers, however, allowing some to impose stricter rules than others. Alaska Airlines banned medical exemptions in August but now has a similar policy to American's and requires flyers seeking an exemption to make accommodations at least five days from their scheduled flights.

Delta Air Lines, alternatively, required passengers claiming an exemption to undergo a virtual screening with an airline-provided medical professional. Flyers would do the screening on the same day as their flight and were advised to arrive extra early to have it done.

Airlines have been requiring masks since the spring as they sought to dampen the threat of asymptomatic spread onboard aircraft. Biden's executive order, however, gives airlines federal backing in enforcing the mask rule and those who don't comply can face civil penalties, according to the Transportation Security Administration.

More than 2,700 passengers have been banned from the skies for mask non-as of mid-January, eight airlines confirmed to Insider. Incidents rose in early January as rioters traveled by plane to Washington, DC to take part in the "Stop the Steal" protests that resulted in the storming of the US Capitol Building.

Alaska Airlines, which devised a soccer-style yellow card system to discreetly remind passengers to wear their masks, had banned 14 passengers on a single flight from Washington to Seattle. And before the protests even began, a Delta flight from Salt Lake City to Washington saw six passengers who had been flouting the mask rule while harassing US Senator Mitt Romney, banned from the airline.

Starting February 2, TSA has begun cracking down on maskless passengers before they even reach the gate.

"Passengers who refuse to wear a mask will not be permitted to enter the secure area of the airport, which includes the terminal and gate area," the agency said in a statement. "Depending on the circumstance, those who refuse to wear a mask may be subject to a civil penalty for attempting to circumvent screening requirements, interfering with screening personnel, or a combination of those offenses."

The Federal Aviation Administration is also stepping in when offenses become egregious, proposing fines of up to $35,000 for those who don't comply.

Read the original article on Business Insider

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We are going to search for the optimal portfolio, i.e. one that has the highest risk-adjusted return. To do so, we will maximize the portfolio’s Sharpe ratio. The Sharpe Ratio is a financial metric that helps investors determine the return of an investmen

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 23:43:40 +0000

We are going to search for the optimal portfolio, i.e. one that has the highest risk-adjusted return. To do so, we will maximize the portfolio’s Sharpe ratio. The Sharpe Ratio is a financial metric that helps investors determine the return of an investment compared to its risk. The higher the Sharpe Ratio of a portfolio, the better it is in terms of risk-adjusted return. #investing #diversification #python #portfolio #trading #risk #investment

What value does quantitative investing actually create for society? Quantitative investing is about arbitraging the small inefficiencies, so maybe it will make prices slightly more efficient. But is that worth the enormous infrastructure investment being

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 15:20:09 +0000

What value does quantitative investing actually create for society? Quantitative investing is about arbitraging the small inefficiencies, so maybe it will make prices slightly more efficient. But is that worth the enormous infrastructure investment being spent on it? #derivative #trading #risk #stock #option #finance #market #investing #quant

Which System Has The Lowest Risk of Ruin?

Sat, 31 Dec 2022 19:54:07 +0000

Would you rather choose a trading system that wins small amounts most of the time but when it loses, the loss is big? Or would you rather choose a trading system that loses small amounts most of the time but when it wins, the gain is big? In this blog post, we will examine such systems from the risk of ruin perspective.

The risk of ruin is the probability of an investor’s eventual bankruptcy due to a series of losses that exceed his/her capital. It is essential for any trader to understand their risk of ruin, as it will heavily influence the trading system they ultimately develop.

We will use Monte Carlo simulations to perform our analysis. We examine the following 3 trading systems

System	Percent win	Win	Loss	Expectancy
A	10%	$90	$10	0
B	50%	$18	$18	0
C	90%	$10	$90	0

For each system, we generate 1000 trades randomly. If a trade is a win, then we'll make the amount in the column "Win", and if it's a loss, then we’ll lose the amount in the column "Loss". For example, for system A, if we win, we make $90 and if we lose, we lose $10.

To simplify the analysis, we assume that all 3 systems have zero expectancies. The total winning/losing amounts of each system equal $9000. We start with an initial capital of $1000. The figure below shows the first 100 simulated paths for system A. It's clear that the system has zero expectancy as the terminal wealth equals the starting capital.

To calculate the probability of ruin, we first count the number of paths that go below $0 at any time in their evolutions. We then divide the number of such paths by the number of iterations which is 10000.

The table below summarizes the results.

System	Risk of Ruin
A	10.22%
B	0.18%
C	9.95%

We can see from the results that system B has the lowest probability of ruin. This confirmed that traders should avoid systems that have high win percentages but suffer occasional large losses. Short volatility trading systems are in this category. Traders should also avoid systems that have low percentage win rates.

See More Here: Which System Has The Lowest Risk of Ruin?

Is Health Insurance Mandatory?

Fri, 02 Apr 2021 13:55:06 +0000

Is Health Insurance Mandatory? Yes, you may be required to get certain medical coverage if you are working in a private or public sector. However, not everyone will be covered for the same and certain plans may be available only to employees of a specific company. Those who do not have to purchase medical coverage through their employer may want to consider looking into the various options that are available. If you have to buy your own health insurance, you will want to consider several things, such as: How much do you pay? Do you get the same coverage as you would with your employer?

Many people believe that they need to buy their own insurance if they can't get coverage through an employer. In fact, the vast majority of people get their health insurance through an employer. There are rarely any “subsidized” plans available that can be purchased by employees of a company without paying for it. You may find that you have to buy more than just group insurance if you don't have to take out a policy from your employer. You should always look at the different kinds of policies before deciding on a plan, as every policy has its own rules and limitations.

Most companies only offer one kind of insurance, either group or individual, which can lead to confusion amongst consumers. However, there is actually no national standard for what type of coverage is offered. Each state has its own regulations regarding health care insurance. Therefore, if you are interested in finding something that works for you, try to find out what all the state requirements are for the type of health coverage that you need.

If you get your health insurance from an employer, keep in mind that you may have to pay a hefty fine if you go without insurance. Also, your employer may not cover any pre-existing conditions. For this reason, some people opt for an HMO or PPO policy, which covers you for a flat monthly fee that you pay directly from your pocket. The downside to this is that you cannot choose the doctors that you want to see. Furthermore, you may only get a limited number of doctors available in your network.

If you are self-employed, you will have to decide if you want to get individual or family health insurance. For an individual policy, you can choose the coverage limits as well as the doctors that you can see. However, you are not required to get health insurance through your employer, and you may have to pay an extra premium if you choose to do so.

The bottom line is that you need to get health insurance in case something happens to you that leaves you thousands of dollars in medical bills. When deciding whether or not you need health insurance, you should consider your lifestyle. Do you smoke, and how often do you get sick? It's also a good idea to get a physical examination and a checkup, at the very least twice a year, to make sure that you and your family are in good health. You may be surprised at just what a difference a few simple questions can make when it comes to whether or not you have health insurance.

Modern Portfolio Theory - Effect Of Diversification On The Optimal Portfolio

Sun, 14 Feb 2021 20:26:01 +0000

We are going to perform some numerical experiments. Specifically, we are going to use the portfolio optimization program developed in the previous post in order to study the effect of diversification. http://tech.harbourfronts.com/modern-portfolio-theory-effect-of-diversification-on-the-optimal-portfolio-portfolio-management-in-python/

The 11 choices that shaped how our favorite games look today, from the color of Sonic's shoes to Zelda's name

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 16:12:58 +0000

The Italian plumber was originally named Jumpman.

Nintendo

From character names to genre changes, the most popular video games hide interesting origin stories.
Lara Croft was initially a supporting character while Mario was once called Jumpman.
From "Metal Gear" to "Mortal Kombat", these choices forever shaped the world's favorite video games.
Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

It's a struggle to imagine a video game world where Mario isn't called "Mario" or Lara Croft isn't the protagonist of "Tomb Raider."

But the games we know and love today could easily have been very different.

From the creative choices behind the color scheme of Sonic's sneakers and the naming of the "Final Fantasy" series to the inspiration behind Princess Zelda's name, here are some of the decisions that shaped the world's biggest video games.

Mario wasn't always called Mario

Jumpman resembled the landlord of the warehouse Nintendo was renting, Mario Segale.

Nintendo

He's one of the most popular video game characters ever and the official mascot of Nintendo — but Mario almost wasn't called Mario.

The Italian plumber was originally named Jumpman when "Donkey Kong" launched on the Japanese market. However, the makers wanted to broaden their horizons when the product launched in the US and thought about real names.

According to PC World, Minoru Arakawa, then-president of Nintendo in the US, realized Jumpman resembled the landlord of the warehouse Nintendo was renting at the time. The man was called Mario Segale, and so "Mario" stuck.

Since his launch, Mario has gone on to star in the "Mario Kart" franchise and the hit "Super Mario Odyssey", which even pays tribute to "Donkey Kong."

Sonic's sneakers were inspired by Michael Jackson

While Sonic is blue to reflect the company color scheme, few know why sneakers are red and white.

Paramount/Sega

When the video game developers at Sega were creating a character for Mario to go up against, they dreamt up Mr. Needlemouse, although he later became Sonic.

The reasoning behind the color scheme was explained by character designer Naoto Ohshima in an interview with Gamasutra: "I also thought that red went well for a character who can run really fast when his legs are spinning."

Although the hedgehog is blue to reflect the company colors, few know that his red and white sneakers were inspired by the cover of Michael Jackson's album "Bad."

The combos in Street Fighter II were an accident

The combos are now a defining feature of the franchise.

Capcom

If the first installment of the "Street Fighter" franchise laid the foundations for its popularity, the second catapulted it to superstardom with its killer combinations.

The team accidentally stumbled upon the combos, which allowed users to carry out basic and special moves in a sequence, Paste Magazine reported.

The combos are now a defining feature of the franchise and have been repeated time and time again.

Final Fantasy really was meant to be final

Before the game launched, video game developer Square was about to go under.

Square Enix

With more than 15 video games now in the franchise, it's hard to believe "Final Fantasy" was a product of difficult circumstances.

Before the game launched, video game developer Square was about to go under.

Square's former president, Hironobu Sakaguchi, named the game "Final Fantasy" because he planned to leave the video game industry if it didn't work out.

More than 33 years later things still don't look very final.

It wasn't always clear Samus from 'Metroid' would be a woman

It was in the 1980s that "Metroid" broke a trend of male-dominated characters.

Neilson Barnard/Getty Images

In 1986, Nintendo launched a game that became a key part of its Nintendo Entertainment System (NES).

While female protagonists are now increasingly common in the video game world, back then it was "Metroid" that broke a trend of male-dominated characters.

The gender of female protagonist Samus Aran isn't revealed until the very end of the game when she removes her armor and shows herself for the first time.

Series co-creator Yoshio Sakamoto told IGN the decision was made when, during a development meeting, a staff member said: "Hey, wouldn't that be kind of cool if it turned out that this person inside the suit was a woman?"

Samus continues to be popular, with the remake "Metroid: Samus Returns" released in 2017, and a new game "Metroid Prime 4" announced, although Nintendo decided to restart development in 2019 after it failed to meet quality standards.

McDonald's and Mike Tyson in 'Punch Out!!'

Mike Tyson Tries to Beat Himself in "Punch-Out!!"

YouTube / The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon

Perhaps the funniest fact about "Punch Out!!" is that the short and feisty 17-year-old boxer character Little Mac derives his name from the McDonald's classic.

However, Mike Tyson's involvement gave "Punch Out!!" a whole new significance.

Minoru Arakawa, then-president of Nintendo in the US, was determined to include Tyson in the game as he saw a lot of potential in him.

They released Mike Tyson's "Punch Out!!" in 1987, and Uproxx claims Tyson was only paid $50,000 for his image to be used.

The game's Mike Tyson is notoriously difficult to beat — even the boxer himself couldn't do it.

Jean-Claude 'Mortal Kombat' Van Damme

D'Vorah, introduced in "Mortal Kombat X." The "Mortal Kombat" saga began in 1992.

"Mortal Kombat 11"/NetherRealm Studio

The famous "Mortal Kombat" saga, which now includes 11 installments, began in 1992 but initially was meant to be totally different.

Centering around Belgian actor Jean-Claude Van Damme, the original plan was to create a game based on the film "Universal Soldier" and have him fight against hundreds of colorful enemies.

However, negotiations with the actor didn't go well, Mel Magazine reported, and creators Midway decided to completely rebrand it, turning it into one of the most violent games of all time.

The franchise did however include Johnny Cage, a character inspired by Van Damme.

Originally, 'Metal Gear' wasn't a stealth game

"Metal Gear" was born after Kojima was inspired by 1963 classic "The Great Escape."

Konami

Now one of the most famous stealth games in video game history, "Metal Gear" wasn't initially about stealth at all; it was originally intended exclusively as an action game.

However, the limited tech at the time didn't quite accommodate designer Hideo Kojima's storyline and themes.

"Metal Gear" was born after he was inspired by 1963 classic "The Great Escape," which tells the story of how a group of soldiers plans to escape from a prison camp.

Lara Croft wasn't the main character of 'Tomb Raider'

Directed by Roar Uthaug.

Warner Bros. Pictures

When Core Design and Eidos Interactive first presented "Tomb Raider" in its early stages, the main character looked a little too much like movie archaeologist Indiana Jones — for whom they obviously didn't have a license.

To make the character stand out, designer Toby Gard proposed promoting a secondary female character to lead status, replacing the original idea.

They decided to go with it and created the image of Lara Croft as we know her today, with her trademark shorts and signature braid. The rest is history.

Zelda's namesake is a novelist's wife

The "Legend of Zelda" franchise is now hugely successful.

Nintendo

The name of Princess Zelda from "The Legend of Zelda," now a classic on NES, has an interesting literary origin.

Princess Zelda's name was inspired by Zelda Fitzgerald, the wife of "The Great Gatsby" novelist F. Scott Fitzgerald.

Shigeru Miyamoto of Nintendo said he liked the sound of the name and so it stuck.

The franchise is now hugely successful, with several new installments including 2019's "Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild."

'Resident Evil' started out as a remake of 'Sweet Home'

"Resident Evil: Village" will be coming to PS5 this year.

Capcom

Now one of the most popular horror franchises and the starting point for the survival horror genre, "Resident Evil" was originally going to be a remake of 1989 Capcom classic "Sweet Home."

However, the makers decided to go bigger, changing their idea from a first-person shooter to a third-person one. They took inspiration from the Overlook Hotel of "The Shining," and from other movies featuring haunted houses.

Read the original article on Business Insider

options trading strategies

Structured notes – Transforming risk into opportunities

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 16:23:55 +0000

Global markets have experienced a period of extreme volatility in response to acute concerns over the economic impact of the Covid‑19 pandemic. Numerix explores what this means for traders, issuers, risk managers and investors as the structured products market reshapes to fit the changing market environment

Derivative Valuation

Implied Volatility Of Options-Volatility Analysis in Python

Sat, 26 Sep 2020 23:26:40 +0000

There are two types of volatility: historical volatility and implied volatility. In a series of previous posts, we presented methods and provided Python programs for calculating historical volatilities. In this post, we are going to discuss implied volatility and provide a concrete example of implied volatility calculation in Python. http://tech.harbourfronts.com/trading/implied-volatility-options-volatility-analysis-python/

Apollo's Earnings Climb Amid Epstein-Related Turmoil

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 15:54:00 +0000

Firm officials say ‘the vast majority’ of investors are satisfied with governance changes.

options trading strategies

Garman-Klass Volatility Calculation – Volatility Analysis in Python

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 16:23:59 +0000

In the previous post, we introduced the Parkinson volatility estimator that takes into account the high and low prices of a stock. In this follow-up post, we present the Garman-Klass volatility estimator that uses not only the high and low but also the opening and closing prices. http://tech.harbourfronts.com/trading/garman-klass-volatility-calculation-volatility-analysis-python/