1 Holding period return R on a one year basis
[1000*2.7%/(1+R/2) + (1000*2.7%+1000)/(1+R/2)^2 = 993
work out the equation.
assume interest payments are made every six months (compounded each six months)
2 It's about Interest rate parity.
The best strategy should be taken on here is to
1 sell the 100m sterling pounds at a spot rate of USD1.9278 (bid price) to get $1,927,800
2 take a short position in forwards to sell $1,927,800*(1+2%) at the price of 1/(1.9290-0.0030) pounds per dollar three months from now.
three months later, you will get $1,927,800*(1+2%)
convert the $1,927,800*(1+2%) to sterling pounds through the forwards you have.
So you will get 1,927,800*(1+2%)/1.9260 pounds by using the above strategy.