The use of derivatives is widespread within the financial services sector and across all areas of commerce.  Derivatives provide an ability to reduce risks, or gain financial benefit, from interest rate, currency, commodity or other fluctuations. The course presents what is sometimes thought to be a highly complex subject in straightforward business language.

The Foundation in Derivatives Course starts with the types of requirement to which a derivative can provide a solution.  From there, it goes on to cover the different types of derivative from forwards/futures, options, to the various types of swaps.  At each stage, the course provides practical explanations of the instruments themselves, together with a review of their inherent risks.

This foundation is an essential pre-requisite for anyone wanting to pursue a career in the financial markets, or in the many of the businesses that support the financial services sector.  The coverage is equally valuable to those wanting to explore how derivatives can be used to speculate or hedge.