The World Scientific Handbook of Futures Markets serves as a definitive source for comprehensive and accessible information in futures markets. The emphasis is on the unique characteristics of futures markets that make them worthy of a special volume. In our judgment, futures markets are currently undergoing remarkable changes as trading is shifting from open outcry to electronic and as the traditional functions of hedging and speculation are extended to include futures as an alternative investment vehicle in traditional portfolios. The unique feature of this volume is the selection of five classic papers that lay the foundations of the futures markets and the invitation to the leading academics who do work in the area to write critical surveys in a dozen important topics.

Derivative Products & Pricing consists of 4 Parts divided into 16 chapters covering the role and function of derivatives, basic derivative instruments (exchange traded products (futures and options on future contracts) and over-the-counter products (forwards, options and swaps)), the pricing and valuation of derivatives instruments, derivative trading and portfolio management.

To date, most academic and practical texts have concentrated on the exchange-traded markets and focused on the nature and price characteristics of the various listed instruments. By contrast, OTC Markets in Derivative Instruments deals in detail with the complexities of the over-the-counter markets - extending a description of the core products to a discussion of real world applications and risks. Regulatory, accounting and tax issues are also covered. Contributors include Bankers Trust, BZW, GNI, Goldman Sachs, J.P. Morgan, Natwest Futures, Midland Montagu and Mitsubishi.

This book is a one-stop reference for practitioners and academics in finance, business and economics, providing a holistic reference to the international agriculture business. It takes a multidisciplinary approach, looking at the issues, opportunities and investable themes in the global agricultural space, combining research and practical tools.