The Economics of Derivatives

Download or read book The Economics of Derivatives written by T. V. Somanathan and published by Cambridge University Press. This book was released on 2015-03-02 with total page 278 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: While most books on derivatives discuss how they work, this book looks at the contributions of derivatives to overall economic well-being. It examines both the beneficial and adverse effects of derivatives trading from the perspectives of economic theory, empirical evidence and recent economic history. Aiming to present the concepts in a fair, non-ideological, non-mathematical and simple manner, and with the authors' own synthesis, it draws on economic insights from relevant work in other disciplines, particularly sociology and law. The book also presents some new theoretical ideas and recommendations towards a pragmatic and practical approach for policy-makers. The ultimate objective is to provide a basic conceptual framework which will help its readers form a judgement on whether, when and how derivatives are beneficial or harmful to the economy.