Short Convexity

Convexity

Short convexity describes a portfolio risk profile where the value of a position decreases at an accelerating rate as the underlying asset price moves significantly in either direction. This characteristic is typically associated with selling options, where the potential for profit is limited to the premium received, but the potential for loss is theoretically unlimited. A short convexity position exhibits negative gamma, meaning the portfolio’s delta changes in a way that requires buying high and selling low to maintain a neutral hedge. This creates a challenging risk management scenario during periods of high volatility.