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What is the role of derivatives in risk management?
Derivatives help in risk management by helping investors mitigate potential losses caused by market volatility. They are contracts that derive their value from underlying assets like stocks or commodities.
Common types of derivatives include futures, options, swaps, and forwards. These are widely used for hedging, a strategy where investors buy or sell derivatives to offset risks associated with the price movements of the underlying asset.
For instance, a commodity producer might use futures contracts to lock in prices and protect against market fluctuations, or an investor may use options to decrease the chance of losses in their stock portfolio.
Beyond hedging, derivatives can also be used for portfolio diversification. Effective use of derivatives requires a clear understanding of their complexities and risks involved.
Also read: What are Equity Derivatives