Results for tag: "Underlying"

Derivatives are financial instruments whose value is derived from an underlying asset, such as a stock, bond, commodity, or currency. They are used to hedge risk, speculate, and manage portfolios. Derivatives are traded on exchanges, over-the-counter (OTC), or through private contracts. Exchange-traded derivatives are standardized contracts that are traded on an exchange, while OTC derivatives are customized contracts that are traded directly between two parties. The underlying market for derivatives is composed of a variety of participants, including banks, hedge funds, institutional investors, and retail investors. Banks are the largest players in the derivatives market, providing liquidity and acting as intermediaries between buyers and sellers. Hedge funds use derivatives to speculate on the direction of the market and manage their portfolios. Institutional investors use derivatives to hedge their portfolios against market volatility. Retail investors use derivatives to speculate on the direction of the market and manage their portfolios. Some of the major companies in the derivatives market include CME Group, Intercontinental Exchange, Eurex, and the Chicago Board Options Exchange. Show Less Read more