What is the purpose of a derivative contract in the investment process?

The purpose of a derivative contract in the investment process is to offer an additional way to invest in certain assets such as stocks, bonds, and commodities. A derivative contract is a contract between two or more parties that allows the parties to derive financial value based on the value of an underlying asset. This can include options, futures contracts, and swaps. The purpose of a derivative contract is to provide a means to either hedge risk or speculate on the market while allowing investors to take a view without having to purchase the underlying asset. For example, an investor may not have the funds to purchase a large quantity of a stock, but they can use a derivative contract to gain exposure to the stock without having to pay for the shares. The same holds true for commodities and other assets, as a derivative contract can provide an investor with exposure to the asset without having to make the full purchase. Derivative contracts also provide flexibility in terms of timing, allowing investors to enter and exit trades quickly if the market moves in an unexpected direction. This can be especially beneficial in a volatile market, as investors can limit their losses by entering and exiting positions quickly. In summary, the purpose of a derivative contract is to provide an additional avenue for investing in certain assets, allowing investors to gain exposure to the asset without having to purchase the underlying asset. They also provide flexibility in terms of timing to help investors reduce their losses in a volatile market.

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