Key Differences Between OTC and Exchange-Traded Products

In financial markets, transactions can take place either Over-the-Counter (OTC) or through an Exchange. These represent two distinct methods of buying and selling securities and derivatives, each with its own characteristics, regulatory framework, and risk profile. Key Differences Feature Over-the-Counter (OTC) Exchange-Traded Definition A decentralized market where trades are conducted directly between two parties. A…

Derivatives and the Treasury

Treasury operations, particularly within financial institutions and large corporations, frequently utilize derivatives to manage financial risks and, in some cases, to generate profits. Derivatives are financial contracts whose value is derived from an underlying asset, such as interest rates, currencies, commodities, or market indices. These instruments are integral to modern treasury management, enabling organizations to…

Derivative Products: An Overview

A derivative product is a financial instrument whose value is derived from the value of an underlying asset, a group of assets, or a benchmark. Common underlying assets include stocks, bonds, commodities, currencies, interest rates, and market indices. Derivatives serve various purposes, such as hedging against risk, speculating on price movements, and leveraging investment positions.…