What does conducting a “Structured Products Exercise” involve?

Accounts Payable Auditors

A “Structured Products Exercise” generally involves an in-depth review and practice session focused on the creation, analysis, and evaluation of structured financial instruments. It typically entails several components:
Understanding the Basics: This involves a detailed review of what structured products are, including their definition, types, components (such as the underlying asset, derivatives, and payoff structure), and how they work. Participants will learn about the different market needs these products can address, such as yield enhancement, capital protection, and participation in a certain asset class.
Market Analysis: Participants will examine current market conditions to understand how to align structured products with investor demands. This includes analyzing interest rates, volatility, investor sentiments, and regulatory environments that may impact the structuring of these products.
Structuring and Pricing: The exercise would delve into how to structure a product using derivatives like options, swaps, or forwards. This involves determining the configuration that meets specific risk-reward profiles or investment hypotheses. Participants will learn about the pricing models used for these products, taking into account factors like market conditions and underlying asset performance.
Risk Assessment: A crucial part of the exercise is evaluating the risks associated with structured products. Participants will assess market risk, credit risk, liquidity risk, and operational risk. They learn about stress testing and scenario analysis to better gauge potential outcomes under varying conditions.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations: The exercise likely includes a review of the legal and regulatory frameworks that govern the issuance and sale of structured products. Participants must understand the disclosure requirements, compliance issues, and how to structure products within these boundaries.
Case Studies and Simulations: The exercise might incorporate practical case studies and simulations to apply theoretical knowledge in creating and managing structured products. These practical elements help participants gain experience with real-world scenarios and decision-making processes.
Investor Communication: Participants will also explore how to effectively communicate the features, benefits, and risks of structured products to potential investors, ensuring transparency and suitability for the investors’ needs and risk appetite.

Overall, a “Structured Products Exercise” is designed to equip participants with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills needed to successfully design and manage structured financial instruments in various market conditions.

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