Which of the following best describes the difference between spread duration and portfolio duration? Spread duration allows the manager to measure the sensitivity of portfolio value from changes in: A) | both convexity and yield changes. |
| B) | the duration of the portfolio. |
| C) | yield levels relative to a benchmark yield. |
| D) | the price of the underlying securities. |
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Answer and Explanation
With duration a parallel shift in the yield curve could be caused by a change in inflation expectations which causes the yields on all bonds, including treasuries, to increase/decrease the same amount. In spread duration, the shift is in the spread only, indicating an overall increase in risk aversion (risk premium) for all bonds in a given class.
With duration a parallel shift in the yield curve could be caused by a change in inflation expectations which causes the yields on all bonds, including treasuries, to increase/decrease the same amount. In spread duration, the shift is in the spread only, indicating an overall increase in risk aversion (risk premium) for all bonds in a given class. |