Overview
The Zero coupon rate analysis uses the Libor Market model to construct zero coupon rates at different maturities. Such rates can typically not be observed directly on the market except for short deposit rates. Longer rates are then constructed based on the shorter rates by using FRAs and swaps since these are typically readily available. The basic idea is that you start with a short rate and then use a chain of FRAs to construct the medium rates and finally a chain of swap for the long rates.
Here's documentation on the methodology used: Swap based zero rates
Settings
Output series
Define the maturity of the rate you would like to calculate by providing a value in the maturity text box. To add another rate, simply click the add series button. For each series you may add a description.
Epochs
Here you define which series to use for calculating each segment of the swap curve. The series added in the series list will initially be located at the bottom of the window as unclassified series. To place the series in the desired category, simply highlight the series and select the type. You also need to set a start time for the epoch.
Prefer before previous
When selected it means that series from that category will be used when there is an overlap of maturity lengths.
Deposit rates
Here, interbank deposit rates should be located. You have the option of using automatic or custom maturity settings. The custom settings allow you to choose maturity, define an offset and specify the rate type.
FRA-IMM rates
For the middle part, FRAs needs to be added. By choosing the custom maturity setting, you can modify the position and the offset.
Swap rates
Finally, for the long end of the curve, Swap rates should be added. The custom settings allow you to choose maturity and define an offset.
Example
In our example, we created zero coupon yield using series with different maturities for Sweden. Then we combined the results with the Yield Curve analysis