Types of Financial Markets
There are several types of financial markets. These markets serve several purposes for individuals, countries, and corporates. They enable investors to acquire information about a security without having to spend money. They provide a means for the market to accommodate all types of investors. Each type has its benefits and disadvantages. This article explores the differences between the different types of financial markets. For more information, read on. Here are some of the key differences between them.
Derivatives markets use primary securities to derive their value. These securities can include bonds, commodities, currencies, stocks, and mortgages. Derivatives markets act more like contracts between buyers and sellers. In contrast, equity markets trade in monetary instruments like stock indexes and market indexes. They are largely used in capitalist economies. In addition to these markets, foreign exchanges are another type of market. These markets serve a range of purposes.
Real estate investment trusts (REITs) are the most common type of financial market. REITs pool funds from many small investors and invest them into profitable real estate projects. Unlike a traditional real estate market, these types of financial markets are readily accessible and serve as a bridge between buyers and sellers. The key benefits of these markets are that they are open to the public and provide instant liquidity for investors. Furthermore, they can be accessed at any time, day or night.
Derivatives are financial instruments whose value is derived from an underlying asset. There are several types of derivatives. Derivatives include options, futures contracts, and swaps. The term derivative refers to a contract between two parties for the exchange of a commodity or financial instrument. If a derivative is traded on an exchange, the price of the derivative is based on its underlying value. Securities are traded in futures contracts.
Another type of financial market is the equity market. This is also known as Wall Street, stock exchange, Dalal street, and share bazaar. There are two main types of equity market. The primary market is the one where new issue companies raise money, and the secondary market is the one where issued securities are sold. In the primary market, investors buy and sell securities from companies, which are called shares. They do this through investment banks and merchant banks.
Bonds are debt instruments issued by corporations and governments. The buyer loans the issuer money and the company pays the investor a regular return. When the bond expires, the buyer receives the money back. Government bonds are popular with investors because they have a lower risk. Interest rates are set by central banks and represent the cost of borrowing and return on saving for controlled currencies. These securities are often traded and move up and down in price. The laws of supply and demand govern the financial markets.
The forex market helps in currency trading. Derivatives are contracts that derive their value from the underlying asset. They can be exchange-traded or traded over-the-counter. The foreign exchange market facilitates currency trading. The financial institutions that run this market set the foreign exchange prices of each currency. Commodities include metals, precious stones, and raw materials. They are divided into two main categories – hards and softs. The hards market is driven by harvests while the softs market is driven by the energy demands of the world.