Markets
Derivatives & market mechanics
A derivative is a contract. Understand its payoff, collateral, and settlement before interpreting a price chart.
This is a conceptual comparison, not a verified product listing. Specific rights depend on the product documents and applicable law.
| Structure | What the holder has | What to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Futures | A contract with maturity and specified settlement terms. | Contract size, expiry, margin, cash or physical settlement. |
| Perpetual | A derivative position with no fixed expiry under its rules. | Funding, mark price, liquidation and venue safeguards. |
| Option | A conditional right under specified strike and expiry terms. | Premium, exercise, settlement and writer obligations. |
QUESTIONS TO TAKE TO THE DOCUMENTS
Read the structure closely.
- 01
What determines the settlement value, and can pricing diverge?
- 02
How do margin requirements change as prices move?
- 03
What happens on liquidation, venue failure, or oracle failure?