Quantum theory of securities price formation in financial markets

Abstract

We develop a theory of securities price formation and dynamics based on quantum approach and without presuming any similarities with quantum mechanics. Disorder introduced by trading environment leads to probability distribution of returns that is not a smooth curve, but a speckle-pattern fluctuating in both price coordinate and time. This means that any given return can at times acquire a substantial probability of occurring while remaining low on average in time. Still, due to local character of order interaction during price formation the distribution width grows smoothly, has a minimum value at small time scale and a square root behavior at large time scale. Examples of calibration to market data, both intraday and daily, are provided.