What Is the Binomial Option Pricing Model?
The binomial option pricing model is an options valuation method developed
in 1979. The binomial option pricing model uses an iterative procedure,
allowing for the specification of nodes, or points in time, during the time span
between the valuation date and the option's expiration date.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The binomial option pricing model values options using an
iterative approach utilizing multiple periods to value American
options.
With the model, there are two possible outcomes with each
iteration—a move up or a move down that follow a binomial tree.
The model is intuitive and is used more frequently in practice
than the well-known Black-Scholes model.
The model reduces possibilities of price changes and removes the possibility
for arbitrage. A simplified example of a binomial tree might look something
like this:
Image by Julie Bang © Investopedia 2020
Basics of the Binomial Option Pricing Model
With binomial option price models, the assumptions are that there are two
possible outcomes—hence, the binomial part of the model. With a pricing
model, the two outcomes are a move up, or a move down. The major
advantage of a binomial option pricing model is that they’re mathematically
simple. Yet these models can become complex in a multi-period model.
In contrast to the Black-Scholes model, which provides a numerical result
based on inputs, the binomial model allows for the calculation of the asset
and the option for multiple periods along with the range of possible results for
each period (see below).
The advantage of this multi-period view is that the user can visualize the
change in asset price from period to period and evaluate the option based on
decisions made at different points in time. For a U.S-based option, which can
be exercised at any time before the expiration date, the binomial model can
provide insight as to when exercising the option may be advisable and when
it should be held for longer periods.
By looking at the binomial tree of values, a trader can determine in advance
when a decision on an exercise may occur. If the option has a positive value,
there is the possibility of exercise whereas, if the option has a value less than
zero, it should be held for longer periods.
Calculating Price with the Binomial Model
The basic method of calculating the binomial option model is to use the same
probability each period for success and failure until the option expires.
However, a trader can incorporate different probabilities for each period
based on new information obtained as time passes.
A binomial tree is a useful tool when pricing American options and embedded
options. Its simplicity is its advantage and disadvantage at the same time.
The tree is easy to model out mechanically, but the problem lies in the
possible values the underlying asset can take in one period of time. In a
binomial tree model, the underlying asset can only be worth exactly one of
two possible values, which is not realistic, as assets can be worth any
number of values within any given range.
For example, there may be a 50/50 chance that the underlying asset price
can increase or decrease by 30 percent in one period. For the second period,
however, the probability that the underlying asset price will increase may
grow to 70/30.
For example, if an investor is evaluating an oil well, that investor is not sure
what the value of that oil well is, but there is a 50/50 chance that the price will
go up. If oil prices go up in Period 1 making the oil well more valuable and
the market fundamentals now point to continued increases in oil prices, the
probability of further appreciation in price may now be 70 percent. The
binomial model allows for this flexibility; the Black-Scholes model does not.
Image by Julie Bang © Investopedia 2020
Real-World Example of Binomial Option Pricing
Model
A simplified example of a binomial tree has only one step. Assume there is a
stock that is priced at $100 per share. In one month, the price of this stock
will go up by $10 or go down by $10, creating this situation:
Stock price = $100
Stock price in one month (up state) = $110
Stock price in one month (down state) = $90
Next, assume there is a call option available on this stock that expires in one
month and has a strike price of $100. In the up state, this call option is worth
$10, and in the down state, it is worth $0. The binomial model can calculate
what the price of the call option should be today.
For simplification purposes, assume that an investor purchases one-half
share of stock and writes or sells one call option. The total investment today
is the price of half a share less the price of the option, and the possible
payoffs at the end of the month are:
Cost today = $50 - option price
Portfolio value (up state) = $55 - max ($110 - $100, 0) = $45
Portfolio value (down state) = $45 - max($90 - $100, 0) = $45
The portfolio payoff is equal no matter how the stock price moves. Given this
outcome, assuming no arbitrage opportunities, an investor should earn the
risk-free rate over the course of the month. The cost today must be equal to
the payoff discounted at the risk-free rate for one month. The equation to
solve is thus:
Option price = $50 - $45 x e ^ (-risk-free rate x T), where e is the mathematical
constant 2.7183.
Assuming the risk-free rate is 3% per year, and T equals 0.0833 (one divided
by 12), then the price of the call option today is $5.11.
The binomial option pricing model presents two advantages for option sellers
over the Black-Scholes model. The first is its simplicity, which allows for
fewer errors in the commercial application. The second is its iterative
operation, which adjusts prices in a timely manner so as to reduce the
opportunity for buyers to execute arbitrage strategies.
For example, since it provides a stream of valuations for a derivative for each
node in a span of time, it is useful for valuing derivatives such as American
options—which can be executed anytime between the purchase date and
expiration date. It is also much simpler than other pricing models such as the
Black-Scholes model.
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