Triangular Arbritage question

[VCFAMAR]

Assuming that there is an arbirtage opportunity in a triangular arbritage, why ( according to shweser material) is not possible to earn a profit both ways (clockwise and counter clock-wise)?

 

[S2000magician]

Because you have to pay a bid-ask spread each way, and that eats up your profits.
I wrote an article on this that may be of some help: http://financialexamhelp123.com/triangular-arbitrage/

 

[CMLSML]

Assume that you can buy widgets in Germany on the cheap and sell them for more money in Brazil, you will make money. However, doing the opposite (buying widgets in Brazil and selling them in Germany) would surely burn a hole in your wallet! Normal case scenario, you lose money going both ways around the triangle due to transaction costs.

 

[jyk026]

Thank u s2000! You’re an oasis in this s**t storm. I can’t keep my head straight on what’s what in this d**n chapter. THANK YOU

 

[S2000magician]

jyk026 wrote:Thank u s2000! You’re an oasis in this s**t storm. I can’t keep my head straight on what’s what in this d**n chapter. THANK YOU

You’re very kind, and quite welcome.