23/08/2021
What Is a Derivative?
Understanding Derivatives
Special Considerations
Types of Derivatives
Advantages and Disadvantages
Derivative FAQs
What Is a Derivative?
The term derivative refers to a type of financial contract whose value is dependent on an underlying asset, group of assets, or benchmark. A derivative is set between two or more parties that can trade on an exchange or over-the-counter (OTC). These contracts can be used to trade any number of assets and carry their own risks. Prices for derivatives derive from fluctuations in the underlying asset. These financial securities are commonly used to access certain markets and may be traded to hedge against risk.12
Derivatives are financial contracts that derive their value from an underlying asset, group of assets, or benchmark.
A derivative is set between two or more parties that can trade on an exchange or over-the-counter.
Prices for derivatives derive from fluctuations in the underlying asset.
Derivatives are usually leveraged instruments, which increases their potential risks and rewards.
Common derivatives include futures contracts, forwards, options, and swaps.
Understanding Derivatives
A derivative is a complex type of financial security that is set between two or more parties. Traders use derivatives to access specific markets and trade different assets. The most common underlying assets for derivatives are stocks, bonds, commodities, currencies, interest rates, and market indexes. Contract values depend on changes in the prices of the underlying asset.3
Derivatives can be used to hedge a position, speculate on the directional movement of an underlying asset, or give leverage to holdings. These assets are commonly traded on exchanges or OTC and are purchased through brokerages. The Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) is among the world's largest derivatives exchanges.