Introduction

A derivative is a financial product that derives its value based on an underlying asset, liability or other variable (such as an interest rate, foreign currency or commodity price). Derivatives have become very popular tools for "hedging" (i.e. reducing) financial risk; they have also become an increasingly standard item on big companies' balance sheets. Yet understanding how they work, what they are used for and how they can affect the bottom line of a business has proven to be a significant challenge for the accounting and auditing industries.

This course provides an "accountant-friendly" overview of financial risk management and derivative instruments. This overview focuses on the various types of risk that impact financial markets today, as well as the four major categories of derivatives commonly used to hedge these risks (i.e. forwards, futures, swaps and options).


Learning Objectives

After completing this course, participants should be able to:

•    Define the various types of risk that impact financial markets.
•    Identify the unique characteristics of forwards, futures, swaps and options.
•    Recognize appropriate hedging practices using derivative instruments.

Field of Study: Finance (100%)
Prerequisites: None
Level: Overview
Revision Date:  8/28/24

Additional Contents : Complete, no additional material needed
Advance Preparation : None
Intended Participants : Any CPA looking to maintain or enhance their professional competence
Course Declaration : Participants must complete the final examination within one year of purchase. A minimum passing grade of 70% or better is required to receive CPE
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