Tulevikutehingutehingud

Tulevikutehingutehingud, often translated as "future transactions" or "forward contracts," are financial agreements between two parties to buy or sell an asset at a predetermined price on a specific future date. Unlike options, which give the buyer the right but not the obligation to transact, futures contracts are binding for both parties.

These contracts are commonly used in commodity markets, such as oil, gold, and agricultural products, as well as in financial markets for currencies and interest rates. They serve several purposes, including hedging against price fluctuations and speculation on future price movements. For instance, a farmer might enter into a futures contract to sell their crop at a guaranteed price, protecting them from a potential decline in market value. Conversely, a speculator might buy a futures contract if they believe the price of an asset will rise.

The core elements of a tulevikutehingutehingud include the underlying asset, the quantity of the asset, the price, and the delivery date. These contracts are standardized and traded on exchanges, which helps to ensure liquidity and reduce counterparty risk through a clearinghouse. The exchange sets specifications for each contract, including lot size and delivery locations.

While futures contracts offer a way to manage risk and speculate, they also carry significant risk. The leverage involved can magnify both gains and losses, and a party can lose more than their initial investment. Therefore, understanding the intricacies of these instruments is crucial for anyone considering their use.