Assignment 2 2025
Unique #:865771
Due Date: 30 August 2025
Detailed solutions, explanations, workings
and references.
+27 81 278 3372
, QUESTION 1
a.
Credit default swaps are necessary because they allow investors to manage credit
risk. Specifically, CDS contracts act as insurance against default on debt instruments
like corporate or government bonds. If a borrower defaults, the CDS seller
compensates the buyer for the loss, thus providing protection against credit events
such as bankruptcy or restructuring.
b. Some investors are not in favour of CDS because:
They can amplify systemic risk, as seen during the 2008 Global Financial
Crisis, when defaults triggered large-scale payouts and counterparty failures.
CDS can encourage speculation rather than protection, as investors may buy
CDS on bonds they do not own, effectively betting on a company’s failure (this
is known as a naked CDS), which can create market instability.
c.
Given:
Magong Rural Investments holds R80 million in Moepi Minerals Exploration
bonds.
It buys CDS protection worth R80 million for 3 years from Sedibelo
Development Bank at a premium of 250 basis points (2.5%) per annum.
Scenario 1: Default Occurs
If Moepi Minerals Exploration defaults (e.g., fails to meet its debt obligations,
declares bankruptcy or undergoes restructuring), the CDS contract is
triggered.
Sedibelo Development Bank (CDS seller) must compensate Magong Rural
Investments for the full notional amount of R80 million or the agreed recovery
amount depending on the contract terms.
Magong is protected against financial loss on its bond investment, despite the
issuer's default.
Scenario 2: No Default Occurs
Varsity Cube 2025 +27 81 278 3372