Group 1: Common Option Structures - The three common option structures—Snowball, Phoenix, and Fixed Coupon Notes (FCN)—are essentially barrier options, with specific characteristics regarding cash flow and risk exposure [2][3]. - The classic Snowball structure allows for cash flow only at maturity or upon knock-out, while the Phoenix structure enables monthly cash flow as long as the price is above the knock-in line [2]. - FCN provides fixed coupon payments regardless of price movements during the holding period, making it attractive for conservative investors due to a significantly lower probability of knock-in [2]. Group 2: Profit and Loss Scenarios - In scenarios without knock-in, all three structures yield similar returns, with higher coupon structures being more favorable [3]. - In cases where knock-in occurs but knock-out does not, Snowball and FCN can still yield returns, while Phoenix's cash flow is affected by the knock-in event [3]. - If knock-in occurs and the asset price is below the exercise price at maturity, losses may occur, with Snowball being the most adversely affected due to no cash flow during the holding period [3]. Group 3: Risk and Return Dynamics - The risk-return relationship indicates that Phoenix typically offers lower coupons than Snowball, while FCN generally has the lowest coupon rates [4]. Group 4: Market Timing Considerations - Proper market timing is essential, as no option structure guarantees profit in all market conditions [5]. Group 5: Delta and Volatility Analysis - All three structures maintain a positive Delta, indicating a bullish stance on the underlying asset, and are more suitable for moderate upward or sideways markets [7]. - The expected volatility is positively correlated with coupon rates, as higher volatility increases the likelihood of reaching knock-in conditions [8]. - The structures tend to be short volatility in most scenarios, making high volatility periods favorable for entry [10]. Group 6: Selection of Underlying Assets - The choice of underlying assets significantly impacts the performance of the structured products, with the China Securities 500 Index being identified as a suitable candidate due to its risk-return profile [14][16]. - The analysis of daily return distributions shows that the Hang Seng Tech Index has the lowest probability of extreme negative returns, making it a favorable option [14][15]. Group 7: Historical Backtesting and Timing Strategies - Historical backtesting indicates that FCN can effectively mitigate knock-in losses, making it a lower-risk option compared to Snowball [16]. - Rational timing strategies suggest that selecting more aggressive structures during low-risk periods and conservative structures during higher-risk periods can optimize returns [16]. Group 8: Structural Variations and Adjustments - The flexibility in setting barriers allows for various structural adjustments to balance risk and return, such as eliminating knock-in features or adjusting the knock-out thresholds [19].

Core Insights - The article discusses the significance of futures and options in financial markets, highlighting the rapid development of the over-the-counter (OTC) options market, which offers greater flexibility and customization compared to exchange-traded options [1][2] - Shark fin options, a type of barrier option, are emphasized for their ability to provide tailored risk management solutions for institutional investors, particularly in stable market conditions [1][2] Group 1: Shark Fin Options Characteristics - Shark fin options are designed with predetermined strike and barrier prices, allowing them to operate like standard call or put options within a specific price range [2][4] - If the underlying asset's price remains within the defined range, investors can earn returns based on the asset's price movement relative to the strike price [2][4] - Once the price breaches the barrier, a fixed return is guaranteed, deviating from the typical option payout structure [2][4] Group 2: Product Structure and Performance - The structure of shark fin options can be categorized into single and double shark options, with single shark options focusing on one direction and double shark options allowing for both upward and downward price movements [3][6] - For example, a single shark call option linked to the CSI 300 index has a 90-day term, with a strike price set at 100% of the initial index level and a barrier price at 110% [3] - The expected annualized returns vary based on market performance, with fixed returns of 2% and potential additional returns depending on the index's performance [3][4] Group 3: Application in Financial Products - Shark fin options are commonly utilized in structured financial products by banks, combining low-risk assets with customized options to enhance returns while ensuring capital safety [5] - The design of these products allows for attractive performance during moderate market uptrends, leveraging the unique characteristics of shark fin options [5] Group 4: Cost Efficiency - The inclusion of barrier clauses in shark fin options typically results in lower premium costs compared to standard options, making them appealing for cost-sensitive investors [7] - This cost efficiency allows investors to participate in market movements while managing risk effectively [7] Group 5: Market Trends and Future Outlook - The current focus of shark fin options is primarily on stock indices, structured financial products, commodities, and foreign exchange, with increasing interest from institutional investors [8] - As the OTC options market matures, more investors are expected to leverage the unique features of shark fin options to optimize asset allocation and enhance risk management strategies [8]