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What is Monte Carlo Simulation?
Monte Carlo Simulation is a statistical method applied in financial modeling where the probability of different outcomes in a problem cannot be simply solved due to the interference of a random variable. The simulation relies on the repetition of random samples to achieve numerical results. It can be used to understand the effect of uncertainty and randomness in forecasting models.
Monte Carlo simulation was first developed by Stanislaw Ulam in the 1940s. Ulam was a mathematician who worked on the Manhattan Project. Initially, the method was derived to solve the problem of determining the average distance neutrons would travel through various materials. The method was named after the Monte Carlo Casino in Monaco since the randomness of the outcomes that is crucial to games such as roulette or dices is essential for Monte Carlo simulations.
In essence, the Monte Carlo simulation can be used in almost any probabilistic problem. This explains why it can be used in different fields, including statistics, finance, engineering, and science.
Theory of Monte Carlo Simulation
The main ideas behind the Monte Carlo simulation are the repeated random sampling of inputs of the random variable and the aggregation of the results. The variable with a probabilistic nature is assigned a random value. The model is then calculated based on the random value. The result of the model is recorded, and the process is repeated. Usually, the process is repeated hundreds or thousands of times. When the simulation is complete, the results can be averaged to determine the estimated value.
Application in Finance
Monte Carlo simulation offers numerous applications in finance. The most common application of the model in finance include:
Valuation of options
Monto Carlo simulation is commonly used in equity options pricing. The prices of an underlying share are simulated for each possible price path, and the option payoffs are determined for each path. The payoffs are then averaged and discounted to today, which provides the current value of an option. While Monte Carlo simulation works great for European-style options, it is harder to apply the model to value American options.
Portfolio valuation
The factors influencing the value of portfolios are simulated, and the portfolio value is calculated. Then, the average value of all simulated portfolios is determined, and the portfolio value is observed.
Valuation of fixed income instruments and interest rate derivatives
The main source of uncertainty for fixed income instruments and interest rate derivatives is the short rate. The short rate is simulated numerous times, and the price of a bond or derivative is determined for each simulated rate. Then, the obtained rates are averaged, and the current value of a bond is determined using this rate.
Project finance and real options analysis: Monte Carlo simulation enables financial analysts to construct stochastic models to assess a project’s Net Present Value (NPV).
Financial modeling
When performing sensitivity analysis in financial modeling, it can be done using Monte Carlo Simulation in Excel. The analysis is performed to test the impact on the net present value (NPV) of the business as underlying assumptions and variables change.
CFI is a global provider of financial modeling courses and of the FMVA Certification. CFI’s mission is to help all professionals improve their technical skills. If you are a student or looking for a career change, the CFI website has many free resources to help you jumpstart your Career in Finance. If you are seeking to improve your technical skills, check out some of our most popular courses. Below are some additional resources for you to further explore:
CFI is a global provider of financial modeling courses and of the FMVA Certification. CFI’s mission is to help all professionals improve their technical skills. If you are a student or looking for a career change, the CFI website has many free resources to help you jumpstart your Career in Finance. If you are seeking to improve your technical skills, check out some of our most popular courses. Below are some additional resources for you to further explore:
Below is a break down of subject weightings in the FMVA® financial analyst program. As you can see there is a heavy focus on financial modeling, finance, Excel, business valuation, budgeting/forecasting, PowerPoint presentations, accounting and business strategy.
A well rounded financial analyst possesses all of the above skills!
Additional Questions & Answers
CFI is the global institution behind the financial modeling and valuation analyst FMVA® Designation. CFI is on a mission to enable anyone to be a great financial analyst and have a great career path. In order to help you advance your career, CFI has compiled many resources to assist you along the path.
In order to become a great financial analyst, here are some more questions and answers for you to discover:
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