derivative (redirected from derivitives)

Derivative

A security, such as an option or futures contract, whose value depends on the performance of an underlying security or asset.

Notes:

Futures contracts, forward contracts, options, and swaps are the most common types of derivatives. Derivatives are generally used by institutional investors to increase overall portfolio return or to hedge portfolio risk.

See also: Credit Derivative, Forward Contract, Futures, Hybrid Security, Options, Rho, Underlying

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Derivative

A financial contract whose value is based on, or "derived" from, a traditional security (such as a stock or bond), an asset (such as a commodity), or a market index.

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derivative

An asset that derives its value from another asset. For example, a call option on the stock of Coca-Cola is a derivative security that obtains value from the shares of Coca-Cola that can be purchased with the call option. Call options, put options, convertible bonds, futures contracts, and convertible preferred stock are examples of derivatives. A derivative can be either a risky or low-risk investment, depending upon the type of derivative and how it is used. See also underlying asset.