Although derivatives can be used as speculative instruments, businesses most often use them to Group of answer choices

hedge risks.

appease stockholders.

enhance their balance sheets.

offset debt.

attract customers.

Hedge Risks

Explanation:

Derivatives refer to securities whose value is derived on the basis of the value of the underlying assets. For example, commodity derivatives, financial derivatives, futures, options etc.

Hedging refers to a mechanism by which a probable future loss can be avoided or reduced.

Forward contracts are derivatives wherein a party agrees to buy or sell an asset at a future date at a price fixed today.

For example, an exporter in London will receive export amount in 6 months time. After 6 months, the sterling pound (domestic currency) might appreciate which would result into a loss to exporter upon conversion. Thus, to reduce his loss, he may enter into a forward contract whereby he agrees to sell USD after 6 months at an exchange rate fixed as on today.

This is the concept of hedging.