Credit Spread Option: Definition, How They Work, and Types

What Is a Credit Spread Option?

In the financial world, a credit spread option (also known as a "credit spread") is an options contract that includes the purchase of one option and the sale of a second similar option with a different strike price. Effectively, by exchanging two options of the same class and expiration, this strategy transfers credit risk from one party to another. In this scenario, there is a risk that the particular credit will increase, causing the spread to widen, which then reduces the price of the credit. Spreads and prices move in opposite directions. An initial premium is paid by the buyer in exchange for potential cash flows if a given credit spread changes from its current level.

Understanding a Credit Spread Option

The buyer of a credit spread option can receive cash flows if the credit spread between two specific benchmarks widens or narrows, depending upon the way the option is written. Credit spread options come in the form of both calls and puts, allowing both long and short credit positions.

Credit spread options can be issued by holders of a specific company's debt to hedge against the risk of a negative credit event. The buyer of the credit spread option (call) assumes all or a portion of the risk of default and will pay the option seller if the spread between the company's debt and a benchmark level (such as LIBOR) grows.

Options and other derivatives based on credit spreads are vital tools for managing the risks associated with lower-rated bonds and debt.