Probability Density of Lognormal Fractional SABR Model ^†

Instantaneous volatility of logarithmic return in the lognormal fractional SABR model is driven by the exponentiation of a correlated fractional Brownian motion. Due to the mixed nature of driving Brownian and fractional Brownian motions, probability density for such a model is less studied in the literature. We show in this paper a bridge representation for the joint density of the lognormal fractional SABR model in a Fourier space. Evaluating the bridge representation along a properly chosen deterministic path yields a small time asymptotic expansion to the leading order for the probability density of the fractional SABR model. A direct generalization of the representation of joint density often leads to a heuristic derivation of the large deviations principle for joint density in a small time. Approximation of implied volatility is readily obtained by applying the Laplace asymptotic formula to the call or put prices and comparing coefficients.