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So, you've heard the term 'derivatives' thrown around, maybe in news reports or during financial discussions. It sounds complicated, right? Well, this derivatives overview is here to break it all down. Think of derivatives as financial tools whose value comes from something else, like stocks or bonds. They're used for all sorts of things, from managing risk to trying to make a profit. We'll cover what they are, how they work, and why they matter in the big picture of finance. It's not as scary as it sounds, promise. Key Takeaways Derivatives are financial contracts whose value is tied to an underlying asset, like stocks, bonds, or commodities. They serve multiple purposes, including hedging against potential losses and speculating on future price movements. Common types include futures, options, swaps, and forwards, each with unique trading mechanisms and applications. Trading derivatives can happen on organized exchanges or directly between parties (OTC), each carrying different levels of risk and transparency. Understanding derivatives is important for managing financial risk and exploring investment opportunities, but requires careful consideration of their complexity and potential downsides. Understanding Derivatives Overview Defining Financial Derivatives Financial derivatives are contracts whose value is derived from an underlying asset, group of assets, or benchmark. Think of them as financial agreements that get their worth from something else. This 'something else' could be anything from stocks, bonds, commodities like oil or gold, currencies, or even interest rates. Derivatives don't represent ownership of the underlying asset itself, but rather a claim on its future price movements. They are essentially bets on where the price of the underlying will go. This makes them incredibly flexible tools, but also complex to grasp initially. Understanding the basic concept is the first step to appreciating their role in modern finance. The Role of Derivatives in Financial Markets Derivatives play a pretty big role in how financial markets function today. They're used for a few key reasons. Primarily, they help manage risk. Companies can use them to lock in prices for things they need to buy or sell in the future, protecting themselves from unexpected price swings. For example, an airline might use futures contracts to buy jet fuel at a set price, even if the market price goes up later. They're also used for speculation, where traders try to profit from predicting price movements. And sometimes, they're used for arbitrage, trying to make a quick profit from tiny price differences in different markets. It's a whole ecosystem that helps markets work more smoothly, even if it seems complicated from the outside. They are a key part of how businesses manage their exposure to market fluctuations, much like how money markets help manage short-term cash needs. Key Characteristics of Derivative Instruments So, what makes a derivative a derivative? There are a few defining traits. First, they have an underlying asset, as we've discussed. Second, they involve a specified future date or period. This is when the contract is settled or exercised. Third, they often involve leverage. This means a small price change in the underlying asset can lead to a much larger profit or loss on the derivative contract itself. This leverage is what makes them attractive for speculation but also increases the risk. Finally, they are contracts, meaning they are agreements between two or more parties with specific terms and conditions. These characteristics mean that while derivatives can be powerful, they require careful handling and a solid understanding of the risks involved. Types of Derivative Instruments Derivatives are financial contracts whose value is tied to an underlying asset, group of assets, or benchmark. Think of them as agreements that derive their worth from something else. They're not just for big banks; individuals and companies use them too, often to manage risk or to bet on future price movements. There are several main types of these instruments, each with its own way of working: Futures Contracts Explained A futures contract is basically an agreement to buy or sell a specific asset at a predetermined price on a future date. These are standardized contracts traded on exchanges. For example, a farmer might sell a futures contract for corn to lock in a price, while a food manufacturer might buy it to secure their supply at a known cost. This helps both sides avoid nasty surprises from price swings. Standardized terms: Quantity, quality, delivery date, and location are all set. Exchange-traded: They trade on organized exchanges, making them relatively easy to buy and sell. Used for hedging and speculation: Farmers use them to protect against falling prices, while traders might use them to bet on prices going up or down. Options Contracts and Their Applications Options give the buyer the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell an underlying asset at a specific price (the strike price) on or before a certain date. The seller of the option is obligated to fulfill the contract if the buyer decides to exercise their right. There are two main types: Call options: Give the holder the right to buy the underlying asset. Put options: Give the holder the right to sell the underlying asset. People use options for all sorts of reasons. They can be used to hedge a portfolio against losses, or they can be used for speculative purposes, offering a way to control a large amount of an asset with a relatively small amount of capital. The price of an option, called the premium, is influenced by factors like the underlying asset's price, the strike price, time to expiration, and expected volatility. Swaps for Managing Financial Risk Swaps are private agreements between two parties to exchange cash flows or liabilities from two different financial instruments. The most common type is an interest rate swap, where one party exchanges fixed-rate payments for floating-rate payments, or vice versa. Companies often use swaps to manage their exposure to interest rate fluctuations or currency exchange rate changes. Swaps allow businesses to transform their financial obligations or assets into a more desirable form, effectively tailoring risk exposure to their specific needs without altering the underlying principal amounts. Forwards and Their Market Usage Similar to futures, forward contracts are agreements to buy or sell an asset at a specified price on a future date. However, forwards are customized and traded over-the-counter (OTC), meaning they are not standardized and don't trade on an exchange. This flexibility makes them suitable for specific needs, but it also means they carry more counterparty risk (the risk that the other party won't fulfill their end of the deal) since they aren't guaranteed by a clearinghouse. Businesses often use forwards to lock in exchange rates for future international transactions. The Mechanics of Derivative Trading When we talk about how derivatives actually get bought and sold, it boils down to two main arenas: exchanges and over-the-counter (OTC) markets. Each has its own way of doing things, and understanding these differences is pretty important if you're looking to trade these instruments. Exchange-Traded Derivatives These are the ones you'll find on organized exchanges, like the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) or the Intercontinental Exchange (ICE). Think of them like stock markets, but for derivatives. They're standardized, meaning the contract terms – like the amount of the underlying asset, the expiration date, and the quality – are all set by the exchange. This standardization makes them easier to trade and provides a good deal of transparency. Standardized Contracts: Terms are pre-defined by the exchange. Centralized Trading: All trades happen in one place. Price Transparency: Real-time pricing is readily available. Liquidity: Generally easier to buy and sell due to standardization. The biggest advantage here is the reduced counterparty risk because the exchange's clearinghouse steps in as the buyer to every seller and the seller to every buyer. This makes trading feel a lot safer. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Markets This is where things get a bit more customized. OTC derivatives are private agreements negotiated directly between two parties. There's no central exchange involved. This means you can tailor the contract to your exact needs, which is great for specific hedging or investment strategies. However, this flexibility comes with its own set of challenges. Customized Contracts: Terms are negotiated individually. Decentralized Trading: Transactions occur directly between parties. Less Transparency: Pricing and terms are not publicly available. Higher Counterparty Risk: Risk that the other party might default. Because these deals are private, you're relying on the creditworthiness of the other party. This is where credit risk management becomes a really big deal in OTC trading. It's a bit like shaking hands on a deal, but with much higher stakes. Clearinghouses and Counterparty Risk So, what exactly is this counterparty risk, and how do clearinghouses help? Counterparty risk is simply the danger that the person or entity on the other side of your derivative contract won't fulfill their end of the bargain. In the world of OTC markets, this can be a significant concern. If a major player defaults, it can send ripples through the market. This is where clearinghouses come in, especially for exchange-traded derivatives. A clearinghouse acts as an intermediary. It stands between the buyer and the seller, becoming the buyer to every seller and the seller to every buyer. This novation process effectively guarantees the trade, even if one of the original parties goes bankrupt. They manage this by requiring margin deposits and monitoring positions, which helps keep the whole system more stable. Applications of Derivatives Derivatives are financial tools that derive their value from an underlying asset, index, or rate. They aren't just abstract financial instruments; they have very real uses in managing risk and pursuing opportunities in the financial world. Think of them as sophisticated contracts that allow parties to agree on terms for a future transaction, with the price of that transaction tied to something else. Hedging Against Market Volatility One of the primary uses of derivatives is to protect against unexpected price swings. Businesses and investors often face risks from fluctuating prices of commodities, currencies, or interest rates. Derivatives can act like insurance against these movements. For example, an airline might use futures contracts to lock in a price for jet fuel, shielding itself from potential price hikes. Similarly, a company expecting to receive payment in a foreign currency can use a forward contract to fix the exchange rate, avoiding losses if the currency weakens. Locking in prices for future transactions. Reducing uncertainty in revenue and costs. Protecting against adverse movements in interest rates or exchange rates. Hedging with derivatives is about managing risk, not eliminating it entirely. It's a way to gain more predictability in financial outcomes, which is incredibly valuable for long-term planning and stability. Speculation and Profit Opportunities While hedging is about protection, derivatives also offer significant opportunities for speculation. Traders who believe a particular asset's price will move in a certain direction can use derivatives to bet on that movement. Because derivatives often involve leverage, a small price change in the underlying asset can lead to a much larger percentage gain (or loss) on the derivative itself. This amplifies both potential profits and potential losses. For instance, a speculator might buy call options on a stock if they expect its price to rise sharply, as the option's value could increase dramatically with only a modest rise in the stock price. This is a higher-risk strategy compared to hedging. Arbitrage Strategies Using Derivatives Arbitrage involves exploiting tiny price differences in different markets to make a risk-free profit. Derivatives can be key tools in these strategies. If a derivative is mispriced relative to its underlying asset or other related derivatives, an arbitrageur can simultaneously buy the underpriced instrument and sell the overpriced one, locking in a profit. These opportunities are usually short-lived and require sophisticated trading systems and quick execution. For example, if a stock index future is trading at a price that doesn't perfectly align with the prices of the individual stocks in the index, an arbitrageur might exploit this discrepancy. The existence of arbitrageurs helps to keep markets efficient by correcting such mispricings, contributing to the overall health of financial markets. Here's a simplified look at how arbitrage might work: Identify Mispricing: Detect a price difference between a derivative and its underlying asset (or related assets) that shouldn't exist. Execute Trades: Simultaneously buy the undervalued asset/derivative and sell the overvalued asset/derivative. Profit: As the prices converge, the trader closes both positions for a profit. Market Correction: The arbitrage trades themselves help push the prices back into alignment. Valuation and Pricing of Derivatives Figuring out what a derivative is actually worth can feel like a puzzle. It's not as straightforward as looking up the price of a stock. Several things play a role in how these complex financial instruments are valued. Factors Influencing Derivative Prices The price of a derivative isn't just pulled out of thin air. It's influenced by a bunch of moving parts, many of which are tied to the underlying asset it's based on. Think about the price of the asset itself – that's usually the biggest driver. If you're looking at an option on a stock, the stock's current price is super important. Then there's the idea of volatility. If the underlying asset's price is all over the place, the derivative's price will likely be higher because there's more potential for a big move. Here are some key factors: Underlying Asset Price: The current market price of the asset the derivative is linked to. Time to Expiration: As a derivative gets closer to its expiration date, its value can change significantly, especially for options. Volatility: How much the price of the underlying asset is expected to fluctuate. Interest Rates: Changes in interest rates can affect the cost of carrying the underlying asset and the present value of future cash flows. Dividends (for equity derivatives): Expected dividend payments can influence the price of options on stocks. The time value of money is a concept that really comes into play here. A dollar today is worth more than a dollar in the future because of its potential to earn interest. This principle affects how future cash flows from a derivative are valued in today's terms. Understanding the time value of money is pretty central to grasping derivative pricing. Common Valuation Models Because derivatives can be so complex, people have developed specific models to try and pin down their value. These models use mathematical formulas to take all those influencing factors and spit out a theoretical price. It's not always perfect, but it gives traders and investors a solid basis for understanding if a derivative is over or undervalued. Some common approaches include: Binomial Tree Models: These break down the time to expiration into discrete steps, showing potential price movements of the underlying asset at each step. It's a bit like mapping out a decision tree. Monte Carlo Simulation: This method uses random sampling to model the behavior of the underlying asset and calculate a range of possible derivative values. Black-Scholes Model: This is probably the most famous one, especially for options. It's a mathematical formula that uses several key inputs to calculate the theoretical price of an option. The Black-Scholes Model The Black-Scholes model is a landmark in derivative pricing, particularly for European-style options (options that can only be exercised at expiration). It was developed by Fischer Black and Myron Scholes and later expanded upon by Robert Merton. The model relies on a set of assumptions, like constant volatility and interest rates, and uses a formula that incorporates the underlying asset's price, strike price, time to expiration, volatility, and risk-free interest rate. While it has its limitations and doesn't perfectly capture every market nuance, the Black-Scholes model provides a foundational framework for understanding option pricing. Many other valuation techniques build upon its principles, and it remains a widely referenced tool in financial analysis and trading. Risk Management with Derivatives Derivatives can be powerful tools for managing financial risks, but they also introduce their own set of complexities. When used correctly, they help businesses and investors protect themselves from unwanted market movements. Think of it like having insurance for your financial positions. Managing Market Risk Market risk, often called systematic risk, is the possibility of a loss due to factors that affect the overall performance of financial markets. This includes things like changes in interest rates, currency exchange rates, or stock market prices. Derivatives can be used to offset potential losses from these movements. For example, a company that expects to receive payment in a foreign currency in the future might use a forward contract or an option to lock in an exchange rate. This way, they protect themselves if the foreign currency weakens before they receive the payment. Similarly, an investor holding a large stock portfolio might buy put options to protect against a broad market downturn. Hedging Strategies: Using derivatives to reduce or eliminate exposure to market fluctuations. Speculative Positions: Taking on risk with derivatives in anticipation of market movements. Diversification: Spreading investments across different asset classes to reduce overall risk. The key is to match the derivative strategy to the specific market risk being managed. A poorly chosen derivative can actually increase risk rather than reduce it. Mitigating Credit Risk Credit risk is the danger that a borrower will default on their debt obligations. While derivatives themselves can be subject to credit risk (especially those traded over-the-counter), they can also be used to manage it. Credit default swaps (CDS), for instance, are a type of derivative that acts like insurance against a borrower defaulting on their debt. The buyer of the CDS makes periodic payments to the seller, and if the borrower defaults, the seller compensates the buyer for the loss. Credit Default Swaps (CDS): Transferring credit risk from one party to another. Collateralization: Requiring collateral to reduce exposure in case of default. Diversification of Counterparties: Spreading risk across multiple trading partners. Operational and Liquidity Risks Operational risk refers to losses resulting from inadequate or failed internal processes, people, and systems, or from external events. Liquidity risk is the risk that an entity cannot meet its short-term financial obligations. While derivatives can sometimes help manage these risks, they can also exacerbate them if not handled carefully. For example, complex derivative positions might require significant operational resources to manage, and a sudden need to liquidate a derivative position quickly could lead to substantial losses if the market is illiquid. Robust Internal Controls: Implementing strong processes to manage derivative trades. Contingency Planning: Having plans in place for unexpected events or market disruptions. Stress Testing: Simulating adverse conditions to assess the resilience of derivative portfolios. Regulatory Landscape for Derivatives The world of derivatives, while offering significant financial tools, operates within a framework of rules and oversight. These regulations are put in place to keep things fair and stable, and they've really evolved over time, especially after major financial events. It's not just about preventing chaos; it's also about making sure everyone playing the game knows the rules and can trust the process. Key Regulatory Frameworks Different regions and countries have their own sets of rules, but many share common goals. For instance, in the United States, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act brought a lot of changes, particularly for over-the-counter (OTC) derivatives. Think of it as a big update to the rulebook. Globally, bodies like the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) work to harmonize these rules so that markets can function more smoothly across borders. The goal is generally to increase transparency and reduce the chances of a small problem snowballing into a big one. Dodd-Frank Act (U.S.): Introduced sweeping reforms, including requirements for central clearing and exchange trading for certain derivatives. European Market Infrastructure Regulation (EMIR): Similar to Dodd-Frank, EMIR aims to increase transparency and reduce risk in the European derivatives market. Basel III Accords: While broader in scope, these international banking regulations impact how banks manage their capital and risk, which directly affects their involvement in derivative markets. Dodd-Frank Act (U.S.): Introduced sweeping reforms, including requirements for central clearing and exchange trading for certain derivatives. European Market Infrastructure Regulation (EMIR): Similar to Dodd-Frank, EMIR aims to increase transparency and reduce risk in the European derivatives market. Basel III Accords: While broader in scope, these international banking regulations impact how banks manage their capital and risk, which directly affects their involvement in derivative markets. Impact of Regulations on Trading These rules definitely change how derivatives are traded. For example, requiring certain derivatives to be cleared through central counterparties (CCPs) means that the CCP steps in between the buyer and seller. This helps manage counterparty risk, which is the risk that one side of a deal won't fulfill their obligation. While this adds a layer of safety, it can also mean more paperwork and potentially higher costs for some participants. Exchange-traded derivatives have always been more regulated, but the push has been to bring more transparency to the OTC market, which was historically more private. The regulatory environment for derivatives is a dynamic space. As financial markets evolve and new products emerge, regulators adapt their rules. This ongoing process aims to strike a balance between fostering innovation and ensuring market stability and investor protection. Transparency and Reporting Requirements One of the biggest areas of focus for regulators has been transparency. Before, a lot of derivative trades happened behind closed doors. Now, there are much stricter requirements for reporting trades. This means that more information about who is trading what, and at what prices, is available to regulators and, in some cases, to the public. This data helps regulators spot potential problems early on and provides a clearer picture of the overall market activity. It's a significant shift from the less visible markets of the past. The Economic Impact of Derivatives Facilitating Price Discovery Derivatives play a significant role in how prices are set for underlying assets. Because futures and options contracts are traded on exchanges, their prices reflect the collective expectations of market participants about the future value of the asset. This constant trading and re-pricing help to establish a clear and transparent market price. Think of it like a continuous auction where everyone's opinion on what something is worth is factored in. This price discovery is pretty important for businesses that deal with commodities, like farmers or airlines, as it helps them plan. Enhancing Market Efficiency By allowing market participants to transfer risk, derivatives make markets more efficient. Imagine a company that needs to buy a lot of a certain metal in six months. They're worried the price might go up. They can use a derivative to lock in a price now. This frees them up to focus on their core business instead of constantly worrying about price swings. This ability to manage risk means capital can flow more easily to where it's most productive, rather than being tied up in speculative bets on price movements. It’s like clearing traffic jams so goods can move faster. Contribution to Economic Growth When markets are more efficient and risk is managed better, it generally supports economic growth. Companies can invest with more certainty, which can lead to job creation and innovation. Derivatives also provide opportunities for speculation, which, while carrying risk, can also add liquidity to markets. Liquidity means it's easier to buy and sell assets, which is generally a good thing for the economy. It’s not just about big banks; these instruments can help smaller businesses manage their own financial exposures too. Derivatives, at their best, act as a sophisticated tool for managing the uncertainties inherent in economic activity. They allow for the transfer of specific risks from those who want to shed them to those willing to bear them, often at a price. This reallocation of risk can free up capital and encourage investment in areas that might otherwise be considered too volatile. Common Misconceptions About Derivatives It feels like every time you hear about derivatives in the news, it's usually tied to some big financial mess. This has led to a lot of misunderstandings about what they actually are and how they work. Let's clear up a few of the common ideas that just aren't quite right. Derivatives as Inherently Risky One of the biggest myths is that derivatives are just plain dangerous and only attract risk-takers. While it's true that derivatives can be used for speculative purposes, which carries risk, that's not their only function. Many businesses and investors use them precisely to reduce risk. Think of it like a tool: a hammer can be used to build a house or to cause damage. The tool itself isn't inherently good or bad; it's how it's used. Hedging: Companies use derivatives to lock in prices for commodities they'll need later, like oil or grain. This protects them if prices go up unexpectedly. For example, an airline might buy futures contracts for jet fuel to avoid paying a lot more later. Managing Interest Rate Risk: Businesses with loans can use interest rate swaps to change from a variable rate to a fixed rate, making their payments more predictable. Currency Protection: International businesses can use currency forwards to guarantee an exchange rate for future transactions, avoiding losses if the currency moves unfavorably. The perception of derivatives as solely instruments of speculation overlooks their vital role in risk management. They provide a mechanism for transferring specific risks from parties unwilling to bear them to those willing to do so, often at a price. This function is critical for the stability of many industries. Complexity and Accessibility Another common thought is that derivatives are too complicated for anyone but Wall Street wizards to understand. While some complex derivative structures do exist, the basic concepts behind many common derivatives, like futures and options, are quite straightforward. You don't need a PhD in finance to grasp the core idea of agreeing on a price for something in the future. The challenge often lies more in the application and management of these instruments within a broader financial strategy, rather than the instruments themselves being impenetrable. The Role in Financial Crises Derivatives often get blamed for financial crises, like the one in 2008. It's true that certain complex and poorly understood derivatives played a part, particularly those tied to subprime mortgages. However, it's more accurate to say that derivatives were a component within a larger system of risky lending and inadequate regulation. They didn't cause the crisis on their own. The real issues often stem from excessive leverage, poor underwriting standards, and a lack of transparency in the bond market and other areas, with derivatives sometimes amplifying the problems rather than being the root cause. Blaming derivatives alone is like blaming the ladder for a fall without looking at who built it or how it was used. Future Trends in Derivative Markets The world of derivatives is always shifting, and looking ahead, a few big things seem to be shaping where things are going. Technology is a huge driver, as you might expect. We're seeing more and more algorithmic trading and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze markets and execute trades faster than ever before. This isn't just about speed; it's also about processing vast amounts of data to find patterns and opportunities that humans might miss. Then there's the ongoing evolution of regulations. After past market events, governments and financial bodies worldwide have put new rules in place. These aim to make markets safer and more transparent, but they also change how derivatives are traded and managed. It's a constant balancing act between stability and allowing markets to function efficiently. Here are some key areas to watch: Technological Advancements: Think AI, machine learning, and big data analytics becoming standard tools for pricing, risk management, and even developing new types of derivative products. Blockchain technology is also being explored for its potential to streamline clearing and settlement processes, making them faster and more secure. Evolving Regulatory Environment: Expect continued focus on capital requirements, reporting standards, and oversight of over-the-counter (OTC) markets. The goal is to reduce systemic risk while still allowing for the benefits derivatives provide. Growth in New Asset Classes: Derivatives are expanding beyond traditional stocks and bonds. We're seeing more activity in areas like environmental, social, and governance (ESG) products, cryptocurrencies, and even weather-related derivatives. This diversification reflects changing investor interests and new sources of risk and opportunity. The integration of advanced analytics and AI is set to redefine how derivatives are understood, priced, and traded. This shift promises greater efficiency but also necessitates a workforce equipped with new skills to manage these sophisticated systems. It's also worth noting the increasing focus on sustainability and climate-related risks. Derivatives are starting to play a role in managing these new types of financial exposures, which is a significant development. The ability to adapt to these technological, regulatory, and market shifts will be key for participants in the derivatives space. Wrapping Up Our Look at DerivativesSo, we've covered a lot about derivative instruments. They're pretty complex tools, used for all sorts of things like managing risk or trying to make a profit. It's clear they play a big role in the financial world, connecting different markets and players. Understanding how they work, even just the basics, is important if you're involved in finance at any level. Just remember, like any financial tool, they come with their own set of risks and require careful handling. It's not something to jump into without knowing what you're doing. Frequently Asked Questions What exactly is a derivative?Think of a derivative as a financial agreement whose value comes from something else, like a stock, a bond, or even a commodity like oil. It's like a bet on the future price of that underlying item. You're not directly buying the item itself, but a contract related to its price. Why do people use derivatives?People use derivatives for a few main reasons. Some use them to protect themselves from big price changes, kind of like buying insurance. Others use them to try and make money by guessing which way prices will go. It's all about managing risk or trying to profit from market movements. Are derivatives super risky?Derivatives can be risky, but it really depends on how they are used. If you use them to protect your existing investments, they can actually reduce risk. However, if you use them to make big bets without fully understanding them, the risk can be very high. It’s like using a tool – it can be helpful or dangerous depending on the user. What's the difference between a future and an option?A future contract is like a promise to buy or sell something at a set price on a future date. You have to go through with it. An option contract gives you the *choice*, but not the obligation, to buy or sell at a set price by a certain date. You can choose not to use it if the price isn't right. Where are derivatives traded?Derivatives are traded in two main places. Some are traded on big, organized exchanges, like stock markets, where everyone can see the prices. Others are traded directly between two parties, called 'over-the-counter' or OTC. This is more private and customized. What is hedging with derivatives?Hedging is like playing it safe. Imagine a farmer who grows corn. They might use a derivative to lock in a price for their corn before they harvest it. This way, if the price of corn drops later, they still get the agreed-upon price, protecting their income. Can you explain speculation using derivatives?Speculation is when you try to profit from predicting price changes. For example, if you think the price of gold will go up, you might buy a derivative that benefits from that rise. If you're right, you make money. If you're wrong, you could lose money. How do regulations affect derivatives?Governments and financial watchdogs create rules for derivatives to make sure the markets are fair and stable. These rules can affect how derivatives are traded, what information needs to be shared, and how risks are managed. The goal is to prevent the kind of problems that have caused financial crises in the past.