A derivative is an instrument whose value is derived from the value of one or more underlying, which can be commodities, precious metals, currency, bonds, stocks, stocks indices, etc. Four most common examples of derivative instruments are Forwards, Futures, Options and Swaps.

Over-The-Counter (OTC):

Forward & Swaps are OTC products that are customized & do not trade on exchanges hence is unregulated.

Exchange Traded:

Futures & Options are exchange traded & standardized contracts, hence are regulated. Futures are contracts or an agreement between two parties to either buy or sell a fixed quantity of assets at a particular time in the future for a fixed price. An option is also a similar contract, except the parties are not obligated to fulfill the terms of the agreement. These contracts are then traded in the market. The minimum value of a contract is Rs 2 lakh.