A ratio bonus forward extra allows you to secure a protection rate (slightly less favourable than the benchmark forward rate) while allowing you to take 100% advantage from a favourable move in the spot rate at expiry, provided that the spot rate at expiry is not above the knock-in barrier. You can also benefit from an improved rate in case of an unfavourable move in the spot rate at expiry, in the limit of the improving low barrier. However, you may be obligated to buy an amount higher than the notional amount (at protection rate and within the limit of the defined ratio) if the spot rate at expiry is above the knock-in barrier.
Complexity level : 
:
Catégorie : 3 *
Guarenteed protection rate : 
Protection rate level against benchmark forward rate :
Slightly less favourable
Amount dealt at expiry :
Potentially higher than the notional amount
In what market to use it ?
Participation in a favorable move in spot :
Scenario 1
At expiry, if the spot rate is less favourable than the improving barrier rate, you can buy the notional amount at protection rate.
Scenario 2
At expiry, if the spot rate is between the improving barrier rate and the protection rate, you can buy the notional amount at improved rate.
Scenario 3
At expiry, if the spot rate is between the protection rate and the knock-in barrier rate, you are released from any obligation and you can therefore buy the amount of your choice at spot rate.
Scenario 4
At expiry, if the spot rate is above the knock-in barrier, you must buy twice the notional amount at protection rate.
| Currency cross |
EUR / USD |
| Side |
Buy USD |
| Contract maturity |
6 months |
| Benchmark forward rate |
1,1030 |
| Protection rate level |
1,1000 |
| Improved rate level |
Depends on spot at expiry |
| Readjusted rate level |
N/A |
| Low barrier level |
1,0775 |
| High barrier level |
1,1400 |
| Participation rate |
100% |
| Ratio |
1 : 2 |
| Reserve of points |
N/A |
| Type of contract |
European |
| Frequency of fixings |
N/A |
| Frequency of deliveries |
N/A |
| Fixing |
10 am, New-York time |
Advantages
- You benefit from a guaranteed protection rate whatever the movements in the exchange rate
- You benefit from a favourable move in the spot rate in the limit of the knock-in barrier rate
- You can benefit, under certain conditions, from an improved rate that is better than the protection rate
Disadvantages
- The protection rate is slightly less favourable than the benchmark forward rate
- Participation in the favourable move in the spot rate is limited to the level of the knock-in barrier and cancelled beyond
- You may be obligated to buy an amount higher than the notional amount