What does Hedge Mean? STATES that ‘Hedge’ refers to a Strategic Position or Investment undertaken to OFFSET potential losses or risks incurred from another investment. The Primary Objective of hedging is to MINIMIZE the Impact of adverse Market Movements or unforeseen events on One’s portfolio.
Table of Contents
What does Hedge Mean?
1. Hedging Techniques – How It Works in Investing?
| Derivatives |
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| ‘Derivatives‘ i.e. Options, Futures Contracts, and Swaps derive their value from an underlying asset or benchmark. They ENABLE investors to establish positions that offset potential losses in their primary investments. For Example, an Investor holding a portfolio of stocks might purchase put options to hedge against a potential Market downturn. |
| Diversification |
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| ‘Diversification’ is spreading investments across different asset classes, industries, or geographical regions, Investors can reduce the risk associated with any single investment. Diversification aims to CREATE a portfolio that is less susceptible to the volatility of specific assets, thereby Minimizing potential losses in the event of a downturn. |
| Short-Selling |
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| ‘Short-Selling’ is a strategy employed by investors to HEDGE against falling prices. In this technique, an Investor borrows shares of a security and sells them in the market, anticipating a DECLINE in the security’s value. If the price does fall, the investor can repurchase the shares at a lower price to return them to the lender, thus profiting from the price difference. |
| Options |
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| ‘Options’ provide an EFFICIENT Means of hedging. Various options strategies, such as buying puts, selling covered calls, or constructing collars, allow investors to protect their positions or generate income while Minimizing risk exposure. |
The Bottom Line
What does Hedge Mean? a concept that STATES ‘Hedging‘ is a VITAL Risk Management Technique that allows Investors to protect their investments from adverse Market Movements. While NO hedge can completely eliminate risk, effective hedging techniques can help navigate volatile Market conditions and increase the likelihood of long-term success.
It is Essential for Investors to carefully ASSESS their ‘Risk Tolerance’.
Chartered Accountant – ICAP
Bachelor of Accounting (Honours) – AeU, Malaysia