Janice Delsing, a U.S. -based portfolio manager, maneges an $800 million portfolio (600 million in stocks and $200 million in bonds). In reaction to anticipated short-term market events, Delsing wishes to adjust the allocation to 50 percent stock and 50 percent bonds through the use of futures. Her position will be held only until "the time is right to restore the original asset allocation". Delsing determines a financial futures-based asset allocation strategy is appropriate. The stock future index multiplier is $250 and the denomination of the bond futures contract is $100,000. Other information relevant to a future-based strategy is given in the followinng exhibit:
Bond portfolio modified duration 5 years
Bond portfolio yield to maturity 7%
Basis point value(BPV) of bond futures $97.85
Stock Index future price 1378
Stock portfolio beta 1.0
A. Describe the financial futures-based strategy needed and explain how the strategy allows Delsing to implement her allocation adjustment. No calculations are necessary
B. Compute the number of each of the following needed to implement Delsing's asset allocation strategy:
1.bond futures contracts
2.Stock index futures contracts