A System Dynamics Simulation on KIKO Derivatives and its Implications from International Trade

Derivatives can be easily bought by those companies that need to hedge foreign currency debt or foreign currency assets through the financial market, considering their exchange rate exposure from international trade. The derivatives market has been growing rapidly due to the needs for investment and hedging. To manage foreign exchange risk, companies hedge risks through financial derivatives. According to our study, hedging is an effective way to mitigate the impact of exposure to exchange risk, as long as companies are only hedging underlying assets. Yet, covetous attitude toward the profit from derivatives and unexpected changes in exchange rate can cause problems for companies. This study analyzed the structural risks of derivatives with analysis of system dynamics. In particular, many companies suffered substantial loss due to KIKO during the economic crisis. We explained the problem therein through dynamic analysis. In addition, we revealed the structural problem that could cause a sudden spike in losses through simulations.