trading

derivative

A financial contract whose value is derived from an underlying asset, index, or rate, such as stocks, bonds, or commodities.

Example

"Options and futures are the most common types of derivatives traded on financial markets."

💡 Memory Tip

DERIVE-ative — it derives its value from something else.

Etymology

From Latin 'derivare' meaning 'to lead away from' — its value leads away from (is based on) something else.

Common Misspellings

derivitivederivatvedervativederivitive

Related Terms

optionsfutureshedging

See Also

underlying asset

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