Options Primer for Financial Engineering Course Testimonials

[heming_huang]

I really like the structure of the course, especially the detailed proofs in the additional material provided by Dan. I really like the part we delved into the asymptotic of BS model parameters, which in turn provided me insights and intuition behind the options. Rados is really active and timely in providing me feedback and answers to the questions I had! Many thanks to everyone who has been involved in organizing the course.

 

[pierreyvessojic]

Probably the best course on options available online, it covers many of the things needed to do well in the finance portion of interviews, such as convexity/price arbitrages, greeks, implied volatility, option trading strategies, etc. Homeworks can get quite challenging at times, but the T.A. Rados is always there, answers all questions in depth and is very knowledgeable. The course also has some questions that require coding, so it can be a good refresher if you haven't coded in a while. All in all, I definitely recommend the course for everyone, whether you are an MFE applicant or preparing for job interviews.

 

[eddieeddie]

Well designed course. TA is responsible and helpful. This course is beyond my expectation and provided alternative way of thinking about options.

 

[xeusclay]

Taking this course has been an incredible journey, providing me with a solid foundation in option pricing and the mathematical models involved. Despite having no prior knowledge in this area, I found myself captivated by the principles of arbitrage and the various trading strategies that can be employed using options. The course not only highlighted the ingenuity behind these financial instruments but also showcased the excitement of developing strategies that leverage their unique properties.

One of the most valuable aspects of the course was the instructor's ability to break down the complex Black-Scholes model into its fundamental assumptions and the universal properties of options based on their real-world trading behavior. By connecting the abstract mathematical model with practical applications, the course provided a clear understanding of how options are priced and utilized in financial markets.

Through the course, I gained a deep appreciation for the concept of risk-neutral probability and its role in option pricing. Understanding how to calculate the theoretical value of an option using the Black-Scholes formula and compare it to the market price has equipped me with the tools to identify potential arbitrage opportunities. Moreover, learning about the Greeks (delta, gamma, theta, vega, and rho) and their implications for option sensitivity has been invaluable in developing effective trading strategies.

The course also introduced me to various option trading strategies, such as covered calls, protective puts, straddles, and spreads. Analyzing these strategies and their risk-reward profiles has provided me with a framework for constructing portfolios that align with specific market outlooks and risk tolerances. I am particularly intrigued by the potential of using options for hedging purposes and generating income through strategies like writing covered calls.

Overall, this course has ignited my passion for financial engineering, particularly in the realm of option trading. The knowledge and intuition I have gained have laid a solid foundation for further exploration and practical application. I am eager to delve deeper into the world of options, enhancing my understanding of advanced pricing models, exotic options, and the integration of options into comprehensive trading strategies. With the tools and insights provided by this course, I feel well-prepared to navigate the dynamic landscape of option trading and contribute to the field of financial engineering.

 

[Ziyuan Kong]

"An Intuition-Based Options Primer for Financial Engineering" is a well-designed course that exceeded my expectations in several ways. The TA was particularly responsible and helpful, always available to answer questions and provide guidance. This course not only covered the fundamental concepts of options trading comprehensively but also introduced an alternative way of thinking about options, which broadened my understanding significantly. The curriculum was structured to foster intuitive learning, making complex topics more accessible. Overall, the course provided invaluable insights and practical knowledge that have enhanced my approach to financial engineering.