Derivative

A derivative is a financial instrument that derives its value from an underlying asset. Derivatives are typically used as a way to manage risk or to speculate on the future price movements of the underlying asset.

There are many different types of derivatives, including options, futures, swaps, and forwards. Derivatives can be based on a wide range of underlying assets, including stocks, bonds, currencies, commodities, and other financial instruments.

Derivatives are often used to hedge risk, which means they are used to offset potential losses in another investment. For example, a farmer who is worried about the price of corn falling before they are able to sell their crop might use a futures contract to lock in a sale price for their corn in advance. This helps to reduce the risk that the farmer will suffer a loss if the price of corn falls before they are able to sell their crop.

Derivatives can also be used to speculate on the price movements of the underlying asset. For example, an investor might buy a call option on a stock, betting that the price of the stock will increase in the future. If the stock's price does increase, the investor will be able to sell the option for a profit.