Derivatives and Derivative Markets

Abstract

In this chapter we introduce readers to the nuts and bolts of derivatives. The objective is, however, different from that found in an introductory finance textbook. There are now many good texts on derivatives, explaining how they are priced and strategies for trading them. There is no point in repeating that content. Rather, this chapter seeks to show how derivatives relate to the operation of a capitalist economy and how their impact has changed over time as derivatives have themselves changed and become more pervasive in financial markets.