One possible shortcoming of both forward and money market hedges is that these
methods completely eliminate exchange exposure. Consequently, the firm has to forgo
the opportunity to benefit from favorable exchange rate changes. To elaborate on this
point, let us assume that the spot exchange rate turns out to be $1.60 per pound on the
maturity date of the forward contract. In this instance, forward hedging would cost the
firm $1.4 million in terms of forgone dollar receipts (see Exhibit 8.2). If Boeing had
indeed entered into a forward contract, it would regret its decision to do so. With its
pound receivable, Boeing ideally would like to protect itself only if the pound weakens,
while retaining the opportunity to benefit if the pound strengthens. Currency
options provide such a flexible “optional” hedge against exchange exposure. Generally
speaking, the firm may buy a foreign currency call (put) option to hedge its foreign
currency payables (receivables).