Financial Instruments

Swaps

 

Swap Derivatives

Swap derivatives are financial contracts that involve the exchange of cash flows between two parties. These cash flows are typically based on underlying assets such as interest rates, currencies, commodities, or other financial instruments. Swaps are used by businesses, investors, and financial institutions to manage risk, speculate on changes in market conditions, or take advantage of pricing inefficiencies.

Swaps are commonly traded over-the-counter (OTC), which means they are not standardized or traded on an exchange like futures or options. Instead, they are tailored agreements between two parties.

 


What is a Swap Contract?

A swap is a financial agreement in which two parties agree to exchange cash flows at specified intervals in the future, based on a pre-determined underlying asset or index. Swaps can be based on a variety of financial instruments, including interest rates, currencies, commodities, or even stock indices.

Unlike forwards or futures contracts, swaps generally do not involve the exchange of the underlying asset itself, but rather the exchange of cash flows. The terms of the swap, such as the notional amount, payment dates, and conditions for each cash flow, are agreed upon by the two parties involved.

 


Types of Swaps

Swaps can be classified into several types based on the underlying asset or purpose:

 

Interest Rate Swaps
  • Definition: The most common type of swap, where two parties exchange fixed and floating interest rate payments on a notional principal amount.
  • Purpose: Used primarily by companies and financial institutions to manage exposure to fluctuating interest rates, or to adjust their debt profile.
  • How it Works: In an interest rate swap, one party agrees to pay a fixed interest rate on a notional amount, while the other party agrees to pay a floating interest rate (typically based on LIBOR or another benchmark) on the same notional amount.

 

Example:

  • Party A agrees to pay a fixed rate of 3% annually on a notional amount of $10 million, while Party B agrees to pay a floating rate, say LIBOR + 1%, on the same amount.
  • If the floating rate is 2%, Party B will pay 3% annually, and Party A will pay LIBOR + 1% (in this case, 3%). They will exchange the net difference between their respective obligations.

 

Currency Swaps
  • Definition: A contract where two parties agree to exchange cash flows in different currencies. This typically involves both the exchange of principal and interest payments.
  • Purpose: Often used by multinational corporations to hedge exposure to foreign exchange risk or by investors who want to take advantage of favorable interest rates in foreign currencies.
  • How it Works: One party may agree to pay interest in one currency (e.g., USD), while the other pays in another currency (e.g., EUR), based on the exchange rates at the time the swap is executed. The principal amounts can also be exchanged at the beginning and end of the contract.

 

Example:

  • Party A (based in the U.S.) wants to borrow euros at a fixed rate, while Party B (based in the Eurozone) wants to borrow dollars at a fixed rate. The two parties exchange their principal amounts (in their respective currencies), and then they pay interest on each other’s currency.

 

Commodity Swaps
  • Definition: A contract where two parties agree to exchange cash flows based on the price of an underlying commodity, such as oil, natural gas, gold, or agricultural products.
  • Purpose: These are typically used by companies or investors to hedge against fluctuations in commodity prices. For instance, an oil producer might want to hedge against the risk of falling oil prices.
  • How it Works: One party may agree to pay a fixed price for the commodity over a certain period, while the other party will pay based on the spot or market price of the commodity at the time of each settlement.

 

Example:

  • Party A agrees to pay Party B a fixed price of $60 per barrel for crude oil over the next year, while Party B agrees to pay Party A the market price of crude oil at the time of settlement.

 

Credit Default Swaps (CDS)
  • Definition: A type of swap used to transfer credit risk. In a CDS, one party agrees to make periodic payments to another party in exchange for protection against a credit event (e.g., default or bankruptcy) related to a specific reference entity, such as a corporation or government bond.
  • Purpose: Used as a form of insurance against the default of a borrower or to speculate on the creditworthiness of an issuer.
  • How it Works: The buyer of the CDS pays regular premiums to the seller of the swap, and in return, the seller agrees to compensate the buyer if the referenced entity defaults or experiences a credit event.

 

Example:

  • Party A (the buyer) wants to insure against the default of a corporate bond issued by Company X. Party B (the seller) agrees to pay Party A if Company X defaults in exchange for regular premium payments. If Company X defaults, Party B must compensate Party A for the loss, typically the face value of the bond.

 


Key Components

A swap contract generally consists of several key components:

  • Notional Principal: This is the nominal value on which the cash flows are calculated. It is not exchanged between parties but serves as the basis for determining the amounts to be paid.
  • Payment Frequency: Swaps specify how often the payments will occur (e.g., quarterly, semi-annually, or annually).
  • Duration/Term: The length of time for which the swap contract will last, which could range from a few months to many years.
  • Swap Rate: This is the fixed rate that one party agrees to pay in an interest rate swap or the fixed rate agreed upon in other types of swaps.
  • Floating Rate: This is the rate that changes periodically (e.g., based on LIBOR or SOFR in an interest rate swap).
  • Settlement Terms: The agreement specifies how the payments will be settled, whether through cash or physical delivery (e.g., commodity swaps).

 


Uses of Swaps

Swaps are used for a variety of reasons, including:

  • Hedging: Swaps can be used by companies or investors to hedge against risk. For example, a company that has a floating-rate loan may use an interest rate swap to lock in a fixed interest rate and reduce exposure to interest rate fluctuations.
  • Speculation: Traders may use swaps to speculate on changes in interest rates, currencies, commodity prices, or credit risks.
  • Arbitrage: Swaps can be used in arbitrage strategies, where an investor takes advantage of pricing discrepancies in different markets or financial instruments.
  • Balance Sheet Management: Financial institutions often use swaps to manage their balance sheet, reduce risk exposure, or adjust their debt profile.

 


Advantages of Swaps
  • Customization: Swaps are highly customizable to meet the specific needs of the parties involved, including terms, notional amount, payment schedules, and the underlying asset.
  • Flexibility: Swaps can be tailored for many different financial purposes, from hedging interest rate risk to managing currency exposure.
  • Risk Management: Swaps are a crucial tool for managing various types of financial risk, especially in uncertain or volatile markets.

 


Risks of Swaps

While swaps offer significant benefits, they come with risks:

  • Counterparty Risk: As swaps are generally traded over-the-counter (OTC), there is a risk that one party might not fulfill their obligations under the contract. This is particularly a concern if one party faces financial distress.
  • Market Risk: Changes in the underlying market (e.g., fluctuations in interest rates, commodity prices, or exchange rates) can lead to financial losses if the swap’s terms become unfavorable.
  • Liquidity Risk: Swaps are not as liquid as exchange-traded products, so unwinding a swap before its maturity can be difficult or costly.
  • Complexity: Swaps can be complex financial instruments, particularly for those unfamiliar with the specific terms and conditions. Misunderstanding the structure or implications of a swap can lead to significant financial loss.

 


Swaps in the Real World
  • Interest Rate Swaps: A company with floating-rate debt might enter into an interest rate swap to convert its exposure to fixed rates, thereby stabilizing its interest payments.
  • Currency Swaps: Multinational corporations use currency swaps to exchange cash flows in different currencies, such as when a U.S.-based company needs to make payments in euros while receiving revenue in dollars.
  • Commodity Swaps: A refinery might use commodity swaps to hedge against the price fluctuations of crude oil, ensuring stable operating costs despite market volatility.
  • Credit Default Swaps (CDS): Investors use CDS contracts to protect against the risk of default on debt securities, or as a form of speculation on the creditworthiness of a company.

 


Conclusion

Swaps are versatile and complex financial derivatives used primarily for risk management, hedging, and speculative purposes. Whether in the form of interest rate swaps, currency swaps, commodity swaps, or credit default swaps, they allow businesses and investors to exchange future cash flows based on underlying assets or indices. While swaps provide valuable opportunities for customizing risk exposure, they also involve significant risks, especially counterparty risk and market risk. Understanding the mechanics of swaps and their various applications is crucial for anyone involved in advanced financial markets.

 

Futures

 

Futures derivatives are standardised contracts traded on exchanges that obligate the buyer to purchase, and the seller to sell, an asset at a specified price on a predetermined future date. Futures contracts are widely used in financial markets for hedging risks, speculation, and arbitrage. They allow participants to lock in future prices, potentially profiting from changes in the price of the underlying asset.

Below is a detailed explanation of futures derivatives:

1. What is a Futures Contract?

A futures contract is an agreement between two parties to buy or sell an underlying asset (which can be a commodity, financial instrument, or index) at a specified price (called the futures price) at a future date (the maturity date). Futures contracts are standardized agreements, meaning they are traded on exchanges with predetermined terms.

 

2. Key Features of Futures Contracts:
  • Standardization: Futures contracts are standardized, meaning the quantity, quality (for commodities), and expiration date are fixed by the exchange.
  • Exchange-Traded: Unlike forwards, futures contracts are traded on formal exchanges (like the Chicago Mercantile Exchange or CME), which provides a high level of transparency, liquidity, and regulatory oversight.
  • Margin and Mark-to-Market: Futures contracts require an initial margin (a performance bond) to be deposited with the exchange. The value of a futures contract is marked-to-market daily, meaning profits and losses are realized and adjusted at the end of each trading day.
  • Settlement: Futures contracts can be settled in two ways: physical delivery (the actual delivery of the asset) or cash settlement (payment of the difference between the futures price and the spot price at contract expiration).

 

3. The Structure of a Futures Contract:

A futures contract includes the following elements:

  • Underlying Asset: The asset being bought or sold (e.g., crude oil, gold, stock indices, agricultural products, or interest rates).
  • Futures Price: The agreed-upon price for the asset to be exchanged at the contract’s maturity.
  • Expiration Date: The date on which the contract expires, and the underlying asset must be delivered or cash settled.
  • Contract Size: The standardized quantity of the underlying asset in the futures contract. For example, one futures contract for crude oil may represent 1,000 barrels of oil.
  • Tick Size: The minimum price movement allowed for the contract.

 

4. How Futures Contracts Work:

Futures contracts are typically used for hedging or speculative purposes:

  • Hedging: Futures contracts allow businesses or investors to lock in a price for an asset, protecting themselves against price fluctuations. For example, an airline company might use futures contracts to lock in fuel prices, ensuring stability in their operating costs.
  • Speculation: Speculators trade futures to profit from expected price movements. If a trader believes the price of an asset will rise, they may buy a futures contract; if they expect a price drop, they may sell the contract.

Here’s an example of how a futures contract works:

  • Example: Suppose an investor believes that the price of gold, which is currently trading at $1,500 per ounce, will rise over the next three months. They enter into a futures contract to buy 100 ounces of gold at $1,500 per ounce for delivery in three months. At contract maturity:
    • If the price of gold rises to $1,600 per ounce, the investor can buy the gold at the agreed price of $1,500, making a profit of $100 per ounce.
    • If the price falls to $1,400, the investor has to buy the gold at $1,500, incurring a loss of $100 per ounce.

 

5. Advantages of Futures Contracts:
  • Liquidity: Futures contracts are highly liquid because they are traded on formal exchanges with numerous participants. This makes it easier to enter and exit positions.
  • Price Transparency: Futures prices are publicly available, making it easy for participants to track market movements and evaluate contracts.
  • Leverage: Futures contracts allow traders to control large amounts of the underlying asset with a relatively small initial investment (margin). This creates the potential for higher profits, but also increases the risk of significant losses.
  • Standardization: Because they are standardized, futures contracts have clear terms and are easier to trade on exchanges compared to customized contracts like forwards.
  • Hedging: Futures provide an effective tool for hedging against price fluctuations in commodities, currencies, or financial markets, helping businesses stabilize costs.

 

6. Risks of Futures Contracts:

While futures contracts have many advantages, they come with significant risks, especially when leverage is used:

  • Market Risk: If the price of the underlying asset moves unfavorably, traders can face substantial losses, especially when using leverage.
  • Liquidity Risk: While futures contracts are generally liquid, some contracts may lack sufficient liquidity, especially for less-traded assets or contracts with long time horizons.
  • Margin Calls: Since futures are marked-to-market daily, participants may face margin calls if their position moves against them. If the trader’s account balance falls below the required margin, they must deposit additional funds to maintain their position.
  • Counterparty Risk: While exchanges mitigate this risk by acting as a clearinghouse, counterparty risk can still arise in some off-exchange transactions or if a market participant defaults.

 

7. Types of Futures Contracts:

Futures contracts can be categorized based on the underlying asset:

  • Commodity Futures: These include agricultural products (e.g., wheat, corn), metals (e.g., gold, silver), and energy products (e.g., crude oil, natural gas).
  • Financial Futures: These include contracts based on financial assets like stock indices (e.g., S&P 500), currencies (e.g., USD/EUR), and interest rates (e.g., U.S. Treasury bonds).
  • Index Futures: Contracts based on the value of stock market indices, such as the S&P 500 or Dow Jones Industrial Average.

 

8. How Futures Contracts Are Traded:

Futures contracts are traded on futures exchanges such as:

  • Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME): Offers a wide range of futures contracts for commodities, financial products, and more.
  • Intercontinental Exchange (ICE): Specializes in energy and agricultural commodities.
  • Eurex: A European futures exchange that offers a range of products, including equity index futures and interest rate futures.

 

9. Futures Contract Settlement:

Futures contracts can be settled in one of two ways:

  • Physical Delivery: The buyer receives the actual underlying asset (e.g., 1,000 barrels of oil or 100 ounces of gold) at the contract’s expiration date.
  • Cash Settlement: Rather than delivering the asset, the difference between the contract price and the spot price at expiration is paid or received. This method is often used for financial futures like stock index futures.

 

10. Futures vs. Forwards:

While both futures contracts and forward contracts are agreements to buy or sell an asset at a future date, there are some key differences:

  • Trading Venue: Futures are traded on exchanges, while forwards are usually private, over-the-counter (OTC) contracts.
  • Standardization: Futures contracts are standardized in terms of contract size, expiration date, and other factors, while forwards are customizable.
  • Margin: Futures contracts require an initial margin and daily marking-to-market, whereas forwards typically don’t have margin requirements.
  • Liquidity: Futures contracts are highly liquid because they are traded on exchanges, while forwards are less liquid and more difficult to exit before maturity.

 

11. Futures in the Real World:
  • Hedging Example: A wheat farmer might sell wheat futures to lock in a price for their crop before harvest. This way, they are protected if wheat prices fall by the time their crop is ready for sale.
  • Speculation Example: A trader who believes that crude oil prices will rise over the next few months might buy oil futures contracts, expecting to sell them later at a higher price.

 

Conclusion:

Futures derivatives are powerful financial tools used by businesses, investors, and traders for hedging, speculation, and arbitrage. They offer high liquidity, price transparency, and the ability to manage risk, but they also carry significant risks, particularly when using leverage. Understanding how futures contracts work, the associated risks, and the mechanics of trading these contracts is essential for anyone involved in financial markets.

 

Forwards

 

Forward derivatives, also known as “forward contracts” or “forwards,” are a type of financial instrument used to hedge risk, speculate on price movements, or lock in future prices for assets. These derivatives are private agreements between two parties to buy or sell an asset at a predetermined price on a specified future date.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of forward derivatives:

 

1. Definition of Forward Contracts:

A forward contract is an agreement between two parties (usually referred to as the “buyer” and the “seller”) to exchange an asset for a specific price at a future date. The contract can be made for various types of underlying assets, such as commodities (oil, gold), currencies, interest rates, or even stock indices.

  • Buyer: The party that agrees to purchase the asset at the agreed-upon price (known as the forward price) at the specified future date.
  • Seller: The party that agrees to sell the asset at the forward price at the future date.

 

2. Forward Price:

The forward price is the agreed-upon price for the asset in the contract. It is determined based on the spot price of the underlying asset (the current market price) and factors such as the time until the contract’s expiration, interest rates, and any storage or carrying costs (for physical assets like commodities).

The forward price can be determined using the following formula:

 

 

F0=S0×e(r×T)F_0 = S_0 \times e^{(r \times T)}

 

Where:

  • F0 = forward price
  • S0 = spot price (current market price)
  • r = risk-free interest rate (annualized)
  • T = time to maturity in years
  • e = base of the natural logarithm (approx. 2.718)

 

3. Features of Forward Derivatives:
  • Customisation: Forward contracts are customizable agreements, meaning the buyer and seller can specify the contract’s terms, including the asset type, quantity, delivery date, and location.
  • Over-the-Counter (OTC): Unlike standardized derivatives (like futures contracts), forward contracts are typically traded over-the-counter (OTC) and are not exchanged on a formal exchange. This makes them more flexible but also more risky due to counterparty risk (the risk that the other party might not fulfill their obligations).
  • Settlement: Forward contracts can be settled either through physical delivery (where the asset is physically exchanged) or through cash settlement (where the difference between the spot price at expiration and the forward price is paid).
  • Leverage: Forward contracts are typically used with leverage, meaning that they allow for the exposure to large amounts of an asset with a relatively small initial investment.

 

4. Advantages of Forward Contracts:
  • Customisation: Forward contracts can be tailored to meet the specific needs of the parties involved. Unlike futures contracts, which are standardized, forwards allow flexibility in terms of contract size, maturity, and other terms.
  • Hedging: Forwards are often used by businesses or investors to hedge against future price fluctuations. For example, a company that imports raw materials may enter into a forward contract to lock in a specific price to protect itself from rising commodity prices.
  • No Margin Requirement: Unlike futures contracts, which may require margin payments, forward contracts typically don’t require initial margin deposits. However, both parties bear the risk that one may not fulfill their obligations.

 

5. Risks of Forward Contracts:
  • Counterparty Risk: Since forward contracts are privately negotiated between two parties, there is a risk that one party may not honor the contract, especially if the contract is not settled until the end of the term.
  • Lack of Liquidity: Forward contracts are generally not as liquid as futures contracts or other exchange-traded instruments because they are privately negotiated.
  • No Standardization: Since these contracts are customized, the terms may vary from one agreement to another, making them harder to price and trade in secondary markets.
  • Market Risk: The price of the underlying asset can move unfavorably, resulting in a loss for one of the parties involved in the contract.

 

6. Example of a Forward Contract:

Let’s say an investor wants to lock in the price of gold, which is currently trading at $1,800 per ounce, for a future date of six months from now. The investor enters into a forward contract with a counterparty (a bank or another investor) to buy 100 ounces of gold at a price of $1,800 per ounce in six months.

  • If, in six months, the spot price of gold rises to $2,000 per ounce, the investor will still be able to purchase the gold at $1,800 per ounce as per the forward contract, realizing a profit of $200 per ounce.
  • If the spot price falls to $1,700 per ounce, the investor will have to buy the gold at the agreed price of $1,800 per ounce, incurring a loss of $100 per ounce.

 

7. Forward Derivatives in Financial Markets:

Forward contracts are used in various sectors, including:

  • Hedging: Corporations, especially those involved in international trade, use forward contracts to hedge against fluctuations in currency exchange rates.
  • Speculation: Investors use forwards to speculate on the direction of future prices of assets, such as commodities, currencies, or stock indices.
  • Interest Rate Management: Forward rate agreements (FRAs) are used by banks and other financial institutions to lock in future interest rates on loans or deposits.

 

8. Forward vs. Futures Contracts:

While forward contracts and futures contracts are similar, they have some key differences:

  • Standardisation: Futures contracts are standardized and traded on exchanges, while forward contracts are privately negotiated.
  • Margin Requirements: Futures contracts require margin payments to cover potential losses, while forwards typically don’t.
  • Settlement: Futures contracts are marked-to-market daily, meaning gains and losses are realized daily, whereas forwards settle at the contract’s maturity date.

 

Conclusion:

Forward derivatives are valuable financial instruments used to manage risk, lock in prices, or speculate on price changes. They offer flexibility in terms of contract specifications but also come with increased risks, such as counterparty risk and lack of liquidity. While they are widely used in various industries, understanding the mechanics and risks of forwards is essential for anyone involved in their use.

ASX Listed Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs)

 

ExchangeIssuerAsset ClassCodeFund Name
ASXAirlie Funds ManagementAustralian SharesAASFAirlie Australian Share Fund
ASXApostleADEFApostle Dundas Global Equity Fund - Class D Units (Managed Fund)
ASXBetaSharesActiveBNDSWestern Asset Australian Bond Fund (Managed Fund)
ASXBetaSharesActiveEINCMartin Currie Equity Income Fund (Managed Fund)
ASXBetaSharesActiveEMMGMartin Currie Emerging Markets Fund (Managed Fund)
ASXBetaSharesActiveHBRDActive Australian Hybrids Fund
ASXBetaSharesActiveRINCMartin Currie Real Income Fund (Managed Fund)
ASXBetaSharesAustralian SharesA200Australia 200 ETF
ASXBetaSharesAustralian SharesAQLTAustralian Quality ETF
ASXBetaSharesAustralian SharesATECS&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF
ASXBetaSharesAustralian SharesAUSTManaged Risk Australian Share Fund (Managed Fund)
ASXBetaSharesAustralian SharesBBOZAustralian Equities Strong Bear Hedge Fund
ASXBetaSharesAustralian SharesBEARAustralian Equities Bear Hedge Fund
ASXBetaSharesAustralian SharesEINCMartin Currie Equity Income Fund (Managed Fund)
ASXBetaSharesAustralian SharesEX20Australian Ex-20 Portfolio Diversifier ETF
ASXBetaSharesAustralian SharesFAIRAustralian Sustainability Leaders ETF
ASXBetaSharesAustralian SharesGEARGeared Australian Equity Fund (Hedge Fund)
ASXBetaSharesAustralian SharesHVSTAustralian Dividend Harvester Fund (Managed Fund)
ASXBetaSharesAustralian SharesQFNAustralian Financials Sector ETF
ASXBetaSharesAustralian SharesQOZFTSE RAFI Australia 200 ETF
ASXBetaSharesAustralian SharesQREAustralian Resources Sector ETF
ASXBetaSharesAustralian SharesRINCMartin Currie Real Income Fund (Managed Fund)
ASXBetaSharesAustralian SharesSMLLAustralian Small Companies Select Fund (Managed Fund)
ASXBetaSharesAustralian SharesYMAXAustralian Top 20 Equity Yield Maximiser Fund (Managed Fund)
ASXBetaSharesCash & Fixed IncomeAAAAustralian High Interest Cash ETF
ASXBetaSharesCash & Fixed IncomeAGVTAustralian Government Bond ETF
ASXBetaSharesCash & Fixed IncomeBNDSWestern Asset Australian Bond Fund (Managed Fund)
ASXBetaSharesCash & Fixed IncomeCREDAustralian Investment Grade Corporate Bond ETF
ASXBetaSharesCash & Fixed IncomeGBNDSustainability Leaders Diversified Bond ETF - Currency Hedged
ASXBetaSharesCash & Fixed IncomeGGOVGlobal Government Bond 20+ Year ETF - Currency Hedged
ASXBetaSharesCash & Fixed IncomeOZBDAustralian Composite Bond ETF
ASXBetaSharesCash & Fixed IncomeQPONAustralian Bank Senior Floating Rate Bond ETF
ASXBetaSharesCommoditiesOOOCrude Oil Index ETF - Currency Hedged (Synthetic)
ASXBetaSharesCommoditiesQAUGold Bullion ETF - Currency Hedged
ASXBetaSharesCurrencyAUDSStrong Australian Dollar Fund (Hedge Fund)
ASXBetaSharesCurrencyEEUEuro ETF
ASXBetaSharesCurrencyPOUBritish Pound ETF
ASXBetaSharesCurrencyUSDU.S. Dollar ETF
ASXBetaSharesCurrencyYANKStrong U.S. Dollar Fund (Hedge Fund)
ASXBetaSharesDigital AssetsCRYPCrypto Innovators ETF
ASXBetaSharesDiversifiedDBBFEthical Diversified Balanced ETF
ASXBetaSharesDiversifiedDGGFEthical Diversified Growth ETF
ASXBetaSharesDiversifiedDHHFDiversified All Growth ETF
ASXBetaSharesDiversifiedDZZFEthical Diversified High Growth ETF
ASXBetaSharesEquity IncomeEINCMartin Currie Equity Income Fund (Managed Fund)
ASXBetaSharesEquity IncomeHVSTAustralian Dividend Harvester Fund (Managed Fund)
ASXBetaSharesEquity IncomeINCMGlobal Income Leaders ETF
ASXBetaSharesEquity IncomeRINCMartin Currie Real Income Fund (Managed Fund)
ASXBetaSharesEquity IncomeUMAXS&P 500 Yield Maximiser Fund (Managed Fund)
ASXBetaSharesEquity IncomeYMAXAustralian Top 20 Equity Yield Maximiser Fund (Managed Fund)
ASXBetaSharesEthicalDBBFEthical Diversified Balanced ETF
ASXBetaSharesEthicalDGGFEthical Diversified Growth ETF
ASXBetaSharesEthicalDZZFEthical Diversified High Growth ETF
ASXBetaSharesEthicalERTHClimate Change Innovation ETF
ASXBetaSharesEthicalETHIGlobal Sustainability Leaders ETF
ASXBetaSharesEthicalFAIRAustralian Sustainability Leaders ETF
ASXBetaSharesEthicalGBNDSustainability Leaders Diversified Bond ETF - Currency Hedged
ASXBetaSharesEthicalHETHGlobal Sustainability Leaders ETF - Currency Hedged
ASXBetaSharesGlobal SectorsBNKSGlobal Banks ETF - Currency Hedged
ASXBetaSharesGlobal SectorsDRUGGlobal Healthcare ETF - Currency Hedged
ASXBetaSharesGlobal SectorsFUELGlobal Energy Companies ETF - Currency Hedged
ASXBetaSharesGlobal SectorsMNRSGlobal Gold Miners ETF - Currency Hedged
ASXBetaSharesHybridsBHYBAustralian Major Bank Hybrids Index ETF
ASXBetaSharesHybridsHBRDActive Australian Hybrids Fund
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesASIAAsia Technology Tigers ETF
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesBBUSU.S. Equities Strong Bear Hedge Fund - Currency Hedged
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesBNKSGlobal Banks ETF - Currency Hedged
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesCLDDCloud Computing ETF
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesDRUGGlobal Healthcare ETF - Currency Hedged
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesEDOCDigital Health and Telemedicine ETF
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesEMMGMartin Currie Emerging Markets Fund (Managed Fund)
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesERTHClimate Change Innovation ETF
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesETHIGlobal Sustainability Leaders ETF
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesF100FTSE 100 ETF
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesFOODGlobal Agriculture Companies ETF - Currency Hedged
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesFUELGlobal Energy Companies ETF - Currency Hedged
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesGGUSGeared U.S. Equity Fund - Currency Hedged (Hedge Fund)
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesHACKGlobal Cybersecurity ETF
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesHETHGlobal Sustainability Leaders ETF - Currency Hedged
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesHEUREurope ETF - Currency Hedged
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesHJPNJapan ETF - Currency Hedged
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesHNDQNASDAQ 100 ETF - Currency Hedged
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesHQLTGlobal Quality Leaders ETF - Currency Hedged
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesIINDIndia Quality ETF
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesINCMGlobal Income Leaders ETF
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesMNRSGlobal Gold Miners ETF - Currency Hedged
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesNDQNASDAQ 100 ETF
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesQLTYGlobal Quality Leaders ETF
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesQUSS&P 500 Equal Weight ETF
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesRBTZGlobal Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesUMAXS&P 500 Yield Maximiser Fund (Managed Fund)
ASXBetaSharesInternational SharesWRLDManaged Risk Global Share Fund (Managed Fund)
ASXBetaSharesManaged RiskAUSTManaged Risk Australian Share Fund (Managed Fund)
ASXBetaSharesManaged RiskHVSTAustralian Dividend Harvester Fund (Managed Fund)
ASXBetaSharesManaged RiskWRLDManaged Risk Global Share Fund (Managed Fund)
ASXBetaSharesPropertyRINCMartin Currie Real Income Fund (Managed Fund)
ASXBetaSharesShort & GearedAUDSStrong Australian Dollar Fund (Hedge Fund)
ASXBetaSharesShort & GearedBBOZAustralian Equities Strong Bear Hedge Fund
ASXBetaSharesShort & GearedBBUSU.S. Equities Strong Bear Hedge Fund - Currency Hedged
ASXBetaSharesShort & GearedBEARAustralian Equities Bear Hedge Fund
ASXBetaSharesShort & GearedGEARGeared Australian Equity Fund (Hedge Fund)
ASXBetaSharesShort & GearedGGUSGeared U.S. Equity Fund - Currency Hedged (Hedge Fund)
ASXBetaSharesShort & GearedYANKStrong U.S. Dollar Fund (Hedge Fund)
ASXBetaSharesTechnologyASIAAsia Technology Tigers ETF
ASXBetaSharesTechnologyATECS&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF
ASXBetaSharesTechnologyCLDDCloud Computing ETF
ASXBetaSharesTechnologyDRIVElectric Vehicles and Future Mobility ETF
ASXBetaSharesTechnologyGAMEVideo Games and Esports ETF
ASXBetaSharesTechnologyHACKGlobal Cybersecurity ETF
ASXBetaSharesTechnologyHNDQNASDAQ 100 ETF - Currency Hedged
ASXBetaSharesTechnologyIBUYOnline Retail and E-Commerce ETF
ASXBetaSharesTechnologyIPAYFuture of Payments ETF
ASXBetaSharesTechnologyNDQNASDAQ 100 ETF
ASXBetaSharesTechnologyRBTZGlobal Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF
ASXBetaSharesThematicASIAAsia Technology Tigers ETF
ASXBetaSharesThematicATECS&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF
ASXBetaSharesThematicCLDDCloud Computing ETF
ASXBetaSharesThematicCRYPCrypto Innovators ETF
ASXBetaSharesThematicDRIVElectric Vehicles and Future Mobility ETF
ASXBetaSharesThematicEDOCDigital Health and Telemedicine ETF
ASXBetaSharesThematicERTHClimate Change Innovation ETF
ASXBetaSharesThematicGAMEVideo Games and Esports ETF
ASXBetaSharesThematicHACKGlobal Cybersecurity ETF
ASXBetaSharesThematicIBUYOnline Retail and E-Commerce ETF
ASXBetaSharesThematicIPAYFuture of Payments ETF
ASXBetaSharesThematicRBTZGlobal Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)CashBILLCore Cash ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)CashISECEnhanced Cash ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)CommoditiesGLDNiShares Physical Gold ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - All CapAUMFEdge MSCI Australia Multifactor ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - All CapGLINiShares Core FTSE Global Infrastructure (AUD Hedged) ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - All CapIHDS&P/ASX Dividend Opportunities ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - All CapIHWLCore MSCI World ex Australia ESG Leaders (AUD Hedged) ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - All CapITEKiShares Future Tech Innovators ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - All CapIWLDiShares Core MSCI World ex Australia ESG Leaders ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - All CapMVOLEdge MSCI Australia Minimum Volatility ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - Large / Mid CapIEMMSCI Emerging Markets ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - Large / Mid CapIEUEurope ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - Large / Mid CapIJPMSCI Japan ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - Large / Mid CapIKOMSCI South Korea ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - Large / Mid CapIVEMSCI EAFE ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - Large / Mid CapIVVS&P 500 ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - Large / Mid CapIXIGlobal Consumer Staples ETF (AU)
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - Large / Mid CapIXJGlobal Healthcare ETF (AU)
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - Large CapIAAAsia 50 ETF (AU)
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - Large CapIESGCore MSCI Australia ESG Leaders ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - Large CapIHOOGlobal 100 (AUD Hedged) ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - Large CapIHVViShares S&P 500 (AUD Hedged) ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - Large CapILCS&P/ASX 20 ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - Large CapIOOGlobal 100 ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - Large CapIOZCore S&P/ASX 200 ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - Large CapIZZChina Large-Cap ETF (AU)
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - Large CapWDMFEdge MSCI World Multifactor ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - Large CapWVOLEdge MSCI World Minimum Volatility ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - Mid CapIJHS&P Mid-Cap ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - Small CapIJRS&P Small-Cap ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Equity - Small CapISOS&P/ASX Small Ordinaries ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Fixed Income - CreditAESGiShares Global Aggregate Bond ESG (AUD Hedged) ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Fixed Income - CreditICORCore Corporate Bond ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Fixed Income - CreditIHCBCore Global Corporate Bond (AUD Hedged) ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Fixed Income - CreditIYLDYield Plus ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Fixed Income - GovernmentIGBTreasury ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Fixed Income - GovernmentIHEBJ.P. Morgan USD Emerging Markets Bond (AUD Hedged) ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Fixed Income - GovernmentIUSGiShares U.S. Treasury Bond (AUD Hedged) ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Fixed Income - High YieldIHHYGlobal High Yield Bond (AUD Hedged) ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Fixed Income - InflationILBGovernment Inflation ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Fixed Income - Multi SectorsIAFCore Composite Bond ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Multi Asset - Multi StrategyIBALiShares Balanced ESG ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Multi Asset - Multi StrategyIGROiShares High Growth ESG ETF
ASXBlackRock (iShares)Real Estate - Real Estate SecuritiesGLPRiShares Core FTSE Global Property Ex Australia (AUD Hedged) ETF
ASXDaintreeDHOFDaintree Hybrid Opportinities Fund
ASXFidelityFDEMGlobal Demographics Fund (Managed Fund)
ASXGlobal X ETFsCommoditiesATOMUranium ETF
ASXGlobal X ETFsCommoditiesBCOMBloomberg Commodity ETF (Synthetic)
ASXGlobal X ETFsCommoditiesETPMAGPhysical Silver
ASXGlobal X ETFsCommoditiesETPMPDPhysical Palladium
ASXGlobal X ETFsCommoditiesETPMPMPhysical Precious Metals Basket
ASXGlobal X ETFsCommoditiesETPMPTPhysical Platinum
ASXGlobal X ETFsCommoditiesGCO2Global Carbon ETF (Synthetic)
ASXGlobal X ETFsCommoditiesGMTLGreen Metal Miners ETF
ASXGlobal X ETFsCommoditiesGOLDPhysical Gold
ASXGlobal X ETFsCommoditiesWIRECopper Miners ETF
ASXGlobal X ETFsCoreN100US 100 ETF
ASXGlobal X ETFsCoreOZXXAustralia ex Financials & Resources ETF
ASXGlobal X ETFsDigital AssetsEBTC21Shares Bitcoin ETF
ASXGlobal X ETFsDigital AssetsEETH21Shares Ethereum ETF
ASXGlobal X ETFsIncomeAYLDS&P/ASX 200 Covered Call ETF
ASXGlobal X ETFsIncomeQYLDNasdaq 100 Covered Call ETF
ASXGlobal X ETFsIncomeUSHYUSD High Yield Bond ETF (Currency Hedged)
ASXGlobal X ETFsIncomeUSIGUSD Corporate Bond ETF (Currency Hedged)
ASXGlobal X ETFsIncomeUSTBUS Treasury Bond ETF (Currency Hedged)
ASXGlobal X ETFsIncomeUYLDS&P 500 Covered Call ETF
ASXGlobal X ETFsIncomeZYAUS&P/ASX 200 High Dividend ETF
ASXGlobal X ETFsIncomeZYUSS&P 500 High Yield Low Volatility ETF
ASXGlobal X ETFsInternationalESTXEURO STOXX 50 ETF
ASXGlobal X ETFsInternationalNDIAIndia Nifty 50 ETF
ASXGlobal X ETFsLeveraged & InverseLNASUltra Long Nasdaq 100 Hedge Fund
ASXGlobal X ETFsLeveraged & InverseSNASUltra Short Nasdaq 100 Hedge Fund
ASXGlobal X ETFsThematicACDCBattery Tech & Lithium ETF
ASXGlobal X ETFsThematicBUGGCybersecurity ETF
ASXGlobal X ETFsThematicCURES&P Biotech ETF
ASXGlobal X ETFsThematicFANGFANG+ ETF
ASXGlobal X ETFsThematicFTECFintech & Blockchain ETF
ASXGlobal X ETFsThematicHGENHydrogen ETF
ASXGlobal X ETFsThematicROBOROBO Global Robotics & Automation ETF
ASXGlobal X ETFsThematicSEMISemiconductor ETF
ASXGlobal X ETFsThematicTECHMorningstar Global Technology ETF
ASXHyperionHYN04Hyperion Global Growth Companies Fund (Managed Fund)
ASXJanus HendersonFUTRGlobal Sustainable Equity Active ETF
ASXLoftus PeakLOF01Loftus Peak Global Disruption Fund
ASXLoomis SaylesLSGELoomis Sayles Global Equity Fund (Quoted)
ASXMagellanMHHTMagellan High Conviction Trust
ASXMonash InvestorsMAATMonash Absolute Active Trust
ASXMontaka Global InvestmentsMOGLMontaka Global Long Only Equities Fund
ASXMunro PartnersMAETMunro Global Growth Fund
ASXMunro PartnersMCCLMunro Climate Change Leaders Fund
ASXMunro PartnersMCGGMunro Concentrated Global Growth Fund
ASXPerennialIMPQPerennial Better Future Fund
ASXPerpetualGIVEPerpetual ESG Australian Share Fund
ASXPerpetualIDEAPerpetual Global Innovation Share Fund
ASXRussell InvestmentsEquity IncomeRDVRussell Investments High Dividend Australian Shares ETF
ASXRussell InvestmentsFixed IncomeRCBRussell Investments Australian Select Corporate Bond ETF
ASXRussell InvestmentsFixed IncomeRGBRussell Investments Australian Government Bond ETF
ASXRussell InvestmentsFixed IncomeRSMRussell Investments Australian Semi-Government Bond ETF
ASXRussell InvestmentsResponsible InvestingRARIRussell Investments Australian Responsible Investment ETF
ASXSchrodersGROWSchroder Real Return
ASXState Street Global Advisors SPDR®BONDSPDR® S&P®/ASX Australian Bond Fund
ASXState Street Global Advisors SPDR®DJRESPDR® Dow Jones® Global Real Estate ESG Fund
ASXState Street Global Advisors SPDR®E200SPDR® S&P®/ASX 200 ESG Fund
ASXState Street Global Advisors SPDR®GOVTSPDR® S&P®/ASX Australian Government Bond Fund
ASXState Street Global Advisors SPDR®OZFSPDR® S&P®/ASX 200 Financials EX A-REIT Fund
ASXState Street Global Advisors SPDR®OZRSPDR® S&P®/ASX 200 Resources Fund
ASXState Street Global Advisors SPDR®QMIXSPDR® MSCI World Quality Mix Fund
ASXState Street Global Advisors SPDR®SFYSPDR® S&P®/ASX 50 Fund
ASXState Street Global Advisors SPDR®SLFSPDR® S&P®/ASX 200 Listed Property Fund
ASXState Street Global Advisors SPDR®SPYSPDR® S&P 500® ETF Trust
ASXState Street Global Advisors SPDR®SSOSPDR® S&P®/ASX Small Ordinaries Fund
ASXState Street Global Advisors SPDR®STWSPDR® S&P®/ASX 200 Fund
ASXState Street Global Advisors SPDR®SYISPDR® MSCI Australia Select High Dividend Yield Fund
ASXState Street Global Advisors SPDR®WDIVSPDR® S&P® Global Dividend Fund
ASXState Street Global Advisors SPDR®WEMGSPDR® S&P® Emerging Markets Carbon Control Fund
ASXState Street Global Advisors SPDR®WXHGSPDR® S&P® World ex Australia Carbon Control (Hedged) Fund
ASXState Street Global Advisors SPDR®WXOZSPDR® S&P® World ex Australia Carbon Control Fund
ASXThe Perth MintCommoditiesPMGOLDPerth Mint Gold
ASXVanEckAlternative Assets - Carbon CreditsXCO2Global Carbon Credits ETF (Synthetic)
ASXVanEckAlternative Assets - GoldNUGGGold Bullion ETF
ASXVanEckAlternative Assets - Private EquityGPEQGlobal Listed Private Equity ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - Australian Broad BasedMVWAustralian Equal Weight ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - Australian Equity IncomeDVDYMorningstar Australian Moat Income ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - Australian SectorMVAAustralian Property ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - Australian SectorMVBAustralian Banks ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - Australian SectorMVRAustralian Resources ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - Australian Small & Mid CompaniesMVES&P/ASX MidCap ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - Australian Small & Mid CompaniesMVSSmall Companies Masters ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - Global SectorGDXGold Miners ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - Global SectorHLTHGlobal Healthcare Leaders ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - Global SectorIFRAFTSE Global Infrastructure (Hedged) ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - Global SectorREITFTSE International Property (Hedged) ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - InternationalCETFFTSE China A50 ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - InternationalCNEWChina New Economy ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - InternationalEMKTMSCI Multifactor Emerging Markets Equity ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - InternationalGOATMorningstar International Wide Moat ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - InternationalHVLUMSCI International Value (AUD Hedged) ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - InternationalMHOTMorningstar Wide Moat (AUD Hedged) ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - InternationalMOATMorningstar Wide Moat ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - InternationalQHALMSCI International Quality (Hedged) ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - InternationalQUALMSCI International Quality ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - InternationalVLUEMSCI International Value ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - International Small CompaniesQHSMMSCI International Small Companies Quality (AUD Hedged) ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - International Small CompaniesQSMLMSCI International Small Companies Quality ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - Sustainable InvestingESGIMSCI International Sustainable Equity ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - Sustainable InvestingGRNVMSCI Australian Sustainable Equity ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - ThematicCLNEGlobal Clean Energy ETF
ASXVanEckEquity - ThematicESPOVideo Gaming and eSports ETF
ASXVanEckFixed Income - Australian1GOV1-5 Year Australian Government Bond ETF
ASXVanEckFixed Income - Australian5GOV5-10 Year Australian Government Bond ETF
ASXVanEckFixed Income - AustralianFLOTAustralian Floating Rate ETF
ASXVanEckFixed Income - AustralianPLUSAustralian Corporate Bond Plus ETF
ASXVanEckFixed Income - AustralianXGOV10+ Year Australian Government Bond ETF
ASXVanEckFixed Income - Capital SecuritiesGCAPGlobal Capital Securities Active ETF (Managed Fund)
ASXVanEckFixed Income - Capital SecuritiesSUBDAustralian Subordinated Debt ETF
ASXVanEckFixed Income - GlobalEBNDEmerging Income Opportunities Active ETF (Managed Fund)
ASXVanEckFixed Income - GlobalTBIL1-3 Month US Treasury Bond ETF
ASXVanguardDiversifiedVDBADiversified Balanced Index ETF
ASXVanguardDiversifiedVDCODiversified Conservative Index ETF
ASXVanguardDiversifiedVDGRDiversified Growth Index ETF
ASXVanguardDiversifiedVDHGDiversified High Growth Index ETF
ASXVanguardEquities - AustralianVASAustralian Shares Index ETF
ASXVanguardEquities - AustralianVETHEthically Conscious Australian Shares ETF
ASXVanguardEquities - AustralianVHYAustralian Shares High Yield ETF
ASXVanguardEquities - AustralianVLCMSCI Australian Large Companies Index ETF
ASXVanguardEquities - AustralianVSOMSCI Australian Small Companies Index ETF
ASXVanguardEquities - InternationalVAEFTSE Asia ex Japan Shares Index ETF
ASXVanguardEquities - InternationalVEQFTSE Europe Shares ETF
ASXVanguardEquities - InternationalVESGEthically Conscious International Shares Index ETF
ASXVanguardEquities - InternationalVEUAll-World ex-U.S. Shares Index ETF (Unavailable on Vanguard Personal Investor)
ASXVanguardEquities - InternationalVGADMSCI Index International Shares (Hedged) ETF
ASXVanguardEquities - InternationalVGEFTSE Emerging Markets Shares ETF
ASXVanguardEquities - InternationalVGSMSCI Index International Shares ETF
ASXVanguardEquities - InternationalVISMMSCI International Small Companies Index ETF
ASXVanguardEquities - InternationalVMINVanguard Global Minimum Volatility Active ETF (Managed Fund)
ASXVanguardEquities - InternationalVTSU.S. Total Market Shares Index ETF (Unavailable on Vanguard Personal Investor)
ASXVanguardEquities - InternationalVVLUVanguard Global Value Equity Active ETF (Managed Fund)
ASXVanguardFixed InterestVACFAustralian Corporate Fixed Interest Index ETF
ASXVanguardFixed InterestVAFAustralian Fixed Interest Index ETF
ASXVanguardFixed InterestVBNDGlobal Aggregate Bond Index (Hedged) ETF
ASXVanguardFixed InterestVCFInternational Credit Securities Index (Hedged) ETF
ASXVanguardFixed InterestVEFIEthically Conscious Global Aggregate Bond Index (Hedged) ETF
ASXVanguardFixed InterestVGBAustralian Government Bond Index ETF
ASXVanguardFixed InterestVIFInternational Fixed Interest Index (Hedged) ETF
ASXVanguardInfrastructureVBLDGlobal Infrastructure Index ETF
ASXVanguardPropertyVAPAustralian Property Securities Index ETF

Commodities

 

 

 

 

CommodityCategorySub-Category
Adzuki BeanAgriculturalGrains, Food and Fiber
AluminiumMetalsIndustrial
Aluminium AlloyMetalsIndustrial
AmberOther-
Brent Crude OilEnergy-
CobaltMetalsIndustrial
CocoaAgriculturalGrains, Food and Fiber
Cocoa CAgriculturalGrains, Food and Fiber
CornAgriculturalGrains, Food and Fiber
Cotton No.2AgriculturalGrains, Food and Fiber
EthanolEnergy-
Feeder CattleAgriculturalLivestock and Meat
Frozen Concentrated Orange JuiceAgriculturalGrains, Food and Fiber
GoldMetalsPrecious
Gulf Coast GasolineEnergy-
Hardwood PulpForest Products-
Heating OilEnergy-
LeadMetalsIndustrial
Lean HogsAgriculturalLivestock and Meat
Live CattleAgriculturalLivestock and Meat
LME CopperMetalsIndustrial
LME NickelMetalsIndustrial
MilkAgriculturalGrains, Food and Fiber
MolybdenumMetalsIndustrial
Natural GasEnergy-
No 2. Soybean AgriculturalGrains, Food and Fiber
OatsAgriculturalGrains, Food and Fiber
PalladiumMetalsPrecious
Palm OilOther-
PlatinumMetalsPrecious
PropaneEnergy-
Purified Terephthalic Acid (PTA)Energy-
Random Length LumberForest Products-
RapeseedAgriculturalGrains, Food and Fiber
RBOB Gasoline (Reformulated gasoline Blendstock for Oxygen Blending)Energy-
Recycled SteelMetalsIndustrial
Robusta CoffeeAgriculturalGrains, Food and Fiber
Rough RiceAgriculturalGrains, Food and Fiber
RubberOther-
SilverMetalsPrecious
Softwood PulpForest Products-
Soy MealAgriculturalGrains, Food and Fiber
Soybean MealAgriculturalGrains, Food and Fiber
Soybean OilAgriculturalGrains, Food and Fiber
SoybeansAgriculturalGrains, Food and Fiber
Sugar No.11AgriculturalGrains, Food and Fiber
Sugar No.14AgriculturalGrains, Food and Fiber
TinMetalsIndustrial
WheatAgriculturalGrains, Food and Fiber
WoolOther-
WTI Crude OilEnergy-
ZincMetalsIndustrial

Derivatives

 

What are they?

Derivatives are financial instruments whose value is derived from the price of an underlying asset or index.

They are used for hedging, speculation, and arbitrage.

Below are some common derivatives, along with their definitions and uses:

 


 

1. Futures Contracts

Definition: A futures contract is a standardized agreement to buy or sell an asset at a specific price at a future date. The contract is traded on an exchange.

 

Uses:

  • Hedging: Producers or consumers of commodities use futures to lock in prices and reduce the risk of price fluctuations.
  • Speculation: Investors can speculate on the future price movements of assets like commodities, currencies, or financial instruments.
  • Arbitrage: Traders exploit price differences between futures contracts and the underlying asset or between different exchanges.

 

Example: A farmer may sell wheat futures to guarantee a price for their crop, while a speculator might buy wheat futures, betting that the price will rise.

 


 

2. Options (Call and Put)

Definition: An option is a contract that gives the holder the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell an underlying asset at a predetermined price (strike price) before or on a specified expiration date.

  • Call Option: Gives the right to buy the underlying asset.
  • Put Option: Gives the right to sell the underlying asset.

 

Uses:

  • Hedging: Investors use options to protect their portfolios from adverse price movements. For example, buying put options on a stock can act as insurance against a decline in its price.
  • Speculation: Options allow investors to take leveraged positions, betting on the direction of an asset’s price.
  • Income generation: Writing options can generate income through premiums. For example, selling covered calls can produce extra income on an existing stock position.

 

Example: A call option on a stock gives the buyer the right to buy the stock at the strike price (e.g., $100) before the expiration date. If the stock price rises above $100, the buyer can profit by exercising the option or selling it at a higher premium.

 


 

3. Swaps

Definition: A swap is a derivative contract in which two parties exchange cash flows or financial instruments over a specified period. Common types of swaps include:

  • Interest Rate Swap: Exchange of fixed interest rate payments for floating rate payments.
  • Currency Swap: Exchange of cash flows in one currency for cash flows in another currency.
  • Commodity Swap: Exchange of fixed commodity prices for floating commodity prices.

 

Uses:

  • Hedging: Companies use swaps to manage exposure to interest rate, currency, or commodity price fluctuations.
  • Speculation: Investors might engage in swaps to bet on interest rate movements or currency exchange rates.
  • Arbitrage: Swaps can be used to exploit discrepancies between market rates.

 

Example: A company with a variable-rate loan may enter into an interest rate swap to exchange its variable payments for fixed-rate payments, thereby reducing the uncertainty of its future interest costs.

 


 

4. Exotic Options

Definition: Exotic options are more complex than standard options (calls and puts). They may have unique features, such as different payoff structures, underlying assets, or conditions for exercising the option. Some common types include:

  • Barrier Options: Options that only become active or “knock in” once the price of the underlying asset reaches a certain threshold (barrier).
  • Asian Options: Options where the payoff depends on the average price of the underlying asset over a specified period, rather than just its price at expiration.
  • Digital Options: Also known as “all-or-nothing” options, these pay a fixed amount if the underlying asset reaches a certain price level at expiration.
  • Lookback Options: Allow the holder to “look back” over the life of the option and choose the best price of the underlying asset (either maximum or minimum) to determine the payoff.

 

Uses:

  • Hedging and Risk Management: Exotic options can offer tailored risk management solutions for specific situations.
  • Speculation: Traders use exotic options to take highly leveraged, niche positions in the market.
  • Customization: Companies or investors with unique risk profiles may use exotic options for more customized protection or speculative opportunities.

 

Example: A barrier option may be a “knock-in” call option, which becomes activated only if the underlying stock price rises above a certain level, providing a more cost-effective way to speculate on price movements than traditional options.

 


 

5. Warrants

Definition: A warrant is a type of option issued by a company that gives the holder the right to buy shares of the company at a specific price (strike price) before a set expiration date. Warrants are typically issued in conjunction with bond or preferred stock offerings as an added incentive for investors.

 

Uses:

  • Capital Raising: Companies issue warrants to raise capital, often as part of a new bond or equity issue.
  • Speculation: Investors can buy warrants to speculate on the future price movement of a company’s stock.

 

Example: A company may issue a warrant that allows investors to buy shares at $50 each for the next five years. If the stock price rises above $50, the investor can exercise the warrant and buy shares at a discount.

 


 

6. Forward Contracts

Definition: A forward contract is a private, non-standardized agreement between two parties to buy or sell an asset at a future date for a price agreed upon today. Unlike futures contracts, forwards are not traded on exchanges.

 

Uses:

  • Hedging: Businesses use forward contracts to lock in the price of goods or currencies for future transactions.
  • Speculation: Traders may speculate on the future price movements of assets by entering into forward contracts.

 

Example: A company that imports goods from another country may enter into a forward contract to lock in the exchange rate for the foreign currency it will need to pay in the future.

 


 

7. Credit Default Swaps (CDS)

Definition: A credit default swap is a financial derivative that allows an investor to “swap” or transfer the credit risk of a reference entity (such as a corporation or government) to another party.

 

Uses:

  • Hedging: Investors use CDS to protect against the risk of default on a bond or loan.
  • Speculation: Traders may use CDS to speculate on the likelihood of default or credit events for a specific entity.

 

Example: An investor holding corporate bonds may buy a CDS as protection against the risk of the company defaulting on its debt.

 


 

Conclusion

Derivatives are powerful financial tools that serve various purposes, from managing risk and hedging to enabling speculation and arbitrage. The choice of derivative depends on the specific needs of the market participants, whether it’s to manage the risk of price movements, take advantage of market inefficiencies, or enhance returns with leverage. While futures, options, swaps, and exotic options are some of the most commonly used derivatives, each type has unique features that make it more suitable for certain market conditions or objectives.

 

Capital Market

Notes

 

  • Medium to long term (1 ~ 30+ years).
  • Safe form of investment.
  • Low risk / low return.
  • Marketable.
  • Liquid

 


Instruments

 

  • Corporate Bonds.
  • Federal Agency Issues.
  • Inflation Protected Treasury Bonds (TIPS) – Real rate plus the principal adjusted up for inflation.
  • International Bonds.
      • Euro Bonds (outside country of issue).
      • Foreign Bonds (same country of issue) (i.e. BMW issue US$ bonds in US).
  • Mortgage Backed Securities.
  • Municipal Bonds.
  • US Treasury Bonds (T-Bonds) – 10+ years.
  • US Treasury Notes (T-Notes) – 1 ~ 10 years.

Dividends

 

Notes

A payment paid regularly by a company to its shareholders out of its profits (or reserves). Interim dividends are generally paid out of surplus profits (reserved) of the previous years, whereas final dividends are declared and paid out on an annual basis after the earnings are known for that financial year. Additionally, companies may pay a bonus dividend.

 

  • Interim Dividend
  • Bonus Dividend
  • Final Dividend

 

A company typically divides its profits between itself and its shareholders. Distributions represent a portion of the profits a company decides to give to its shareholders, while retained earnings represent the portion of profits that a company chooses to keep. Companies choose to share profits in the form of dividends because it encourages shareholders to continue investing in the company. Understanding the transactions pertaining to dividends and retained earnings helps you know the effects of the transactions on a company’s financial statements.

 

 


 

Ex-Dividend Date

The ex-dividend date occurs one business day before the company’s Record Date.

Important: To be entitled to the dividend the shareholder must have purchased the shares prior to the ex-dividend date!

If you purchase shares on the ex-dividend date, the previous owner (seller) of the shares (and not you) will be entitled to the dividend payment.

 


 

Record Date

The record date is 5.00pm on the date a company closes its share register to determine which shareholders are entitled to receive the current dividend. It is the date where all changes to registration details must be finalised.

 


 

Dividend Entitlement

 

 


 

Formula

 

$$\begin{aligned} Dividend\;Yield\; &=\;\left [ (Interim\;Dividend + Final\;Dividend) \over Current\;Share\;Price\right ] \;*\;100\;\\\\\ &= \;\left [ Dividends \over Current\;Share\;Price \right ] \;*\;100\;\end{aligned}$$

 


Calculator

 

* Interim dividend per share (i.e. 25 cents per share = 0.25).
* Final dividend per share (i.e. 30 cents per share = 0.30).
Dividend Yield: %

 


See also: Franking (Imputation) Credits

Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA)

 

Notes

  • Foundation: 16 February 1885
  • Operator: S&P Dow Jones Indices
  • Exchanges: New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), NASDAQ (NAS)
  • Trading Symbol:  ^DJI
  • Constituents:  30
  • Type:  Large Cap
  • Market Cap: US$19.43 trillion (Nov. 2024)
  • Weighting Method:  Price-Weighted Index
  • Website:  S&P Dow Jones Indices

 


 

Index

RankSymbolNameMarket Capitalisation (USD$ Billions)
1NVDANVIDIA Corporation3,563.23
2AAPLApple Inc.3,389.42
3MSFTMicrosoft Corporation3,107.85
4AMZNAmazon.com, Inc.2,174.92
5WMTWalmart Inc.676.90
6JPMJPMorgan Chase & Co.673.68
7VVisa Inc.590.13
8UNHUnitedHealth Group Incorporated575.41
9HDThe Home Depot, Inc.405.55
10PGThe Procter & Gamble Company391.01
11JNJJohnson & Johnson373.28
12CRMSalesforce, Inc.326.69
13CVXChevron Corporation281.24
14KOThe Coca-Cola Company272.94
15MRKMerck & Co., Inc.254.81
16CSCOCisco Systems, Inc.233.98
17MCDMcDonald's Corporation216.08
18AXPAmerican Express Company206.38
19GSThe Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.198.30
20IBMInternational Business Machines Corporation197.48
21CATCaterpillar Inc.191.45
22DISThe Walt Disney Company183.16
23AMGNAmgen Inc.172.98
24VZVerizon Communications Inc.170.24
25HONHoneywell International Inc.146.46
26NKENIKE, Inc.114.02
27BAThe Boeing Company111.36
28SHWThe Sherwin-Williams Company97.70
29MMM3M Company72.43
30TRVThe Travelers Companies, Inc.58.65

 

Equity Securities

 

  • Common Shares
  • Preference Shares
  • American Depository Receipts (ADRs)