If you are not convinced at this point, follow this
link.
The calculation of that is not straightforward, a relatively complicated
task must be done.
ZCalc does it for you!
Having up-to-date zero coupon yield curve data is useful when there
is a group of people is interested in the on-line, most updated
data of a zero coupon yield curve. This happens in treasuries,
dealing rooms, etc.
A researcher in most cases is interested in historical results,
but the professional version CAN do historical calculations as well.
That is, the engine runs through historical data: constructs the
relevant (historical) cash flow matrix, reproduces the prices from
older files, and stores the results in a database. Only one prerequisite
of that: the database of bonds must contain data (cash-flow, date
of issue/final redemption) about bonds that existed in the past,
in the relevant period.
Naturally, one has to have historical data (bond prices) in a systematic,
database-like way to explore this feature. top
from any source that can send or save data to a spreadsheet, or supports
DDE, e.g. REUTERS, BLOOMBERG. top
The speed of estimation
The optimization (calculation) and preparing the reports take only
about 20-120 seconds, depending on the raw computing power of the
computer. Here are some benchmark tests:
Configuration
Average computation spell
Pentium 120, 16MB RAM, Win95, Office 95
100 seconds
Pentium II 350, 64MB RAM, NT4, Office 97
15 seconds
Results can be spread or printed on a local network automatically
within a few seconds. top
Platforms
The program was written in Visual Basic for Applications, completely
works its way into Microsoft Office objects, mainly into Microsoft
Excel.
The program in itself is a self-contained to a certain extent, the
database of instruments can be modified/filled up by the user, simply
modifying a worksheet (see how).
This version is fine-tuned for the Hungarian capital market, for example
the notations, codes for bonds/bills are built-in. Of course, it is
possible to modify them in order to get it in accordance with any
type of market standards. top
Sample output
Not yet available. An actual sample output is expected to be shown
soon. top
Availability
The freeware version was first released on June
15, 1998 and is no longer supported.
A continuous improvement of the software is
in progress. We are enhancing the methods applied, and making the
user interface even more handy. This will allow you to integrate sophisticated
estimation techniques with your everyday business activity and research
work.
A new enterprise edition is to be released.
All the functionalities are integrated into your spreadsheet
(Excel tables).
Supports groupware technologies: share the results automatically
on intranet and internet environment.