BAJAJ BROKING

Notification close image
No new Notification messages
card image
3B Films IPO is Open!
Apply for the 3B Films IPO through UPI in just minutes.
delete image
card image
Start your SIP with just ₹100
Choose from 4,000+ Mutual Funds on Bajaj Broking
delete image
card image
Open a Free Demat Account
Pay ZERO maintenance charges for the first year, get free stock picks daily, and more.
delete image
card image
Trade Now, Pay Later with up to 4x
Never miss a good trading opportunity due to low funds with our MTF feature.
delete image
card image
Track Market Movers Instantly
Stay updated with real-time data. Get insights at your fingertips.
delete image

What are Currency Derivatives?

Currency derivatives are financial contracts that derive their value from underlying currency exchange rates. These instruments allow traders and investors to hedge against or speculate on the movement of currency values. Understanding what currency derivatives are is essential if you are involved in import-export businesses, foreign investments, or any activity exposed to currency risk. These contracts are traded on regulated exchanges in India, such as the NSE and BSE, and involve currencies like USD/INR, EUR/INR, GBP/INR, and JPY/INR. Currency derivatives serve as tools for risk management, helping you manage fluctuations in exchange rates with precision and transparency.

Types of currency derivatives

Currency derivatives offer several instruments that help manage forex exposure or take trading positions in foreign exchange movements. These contracts come with defined terms and settlement procedures. Understanding the different types can help you select one that matches your investment or hedging objective.

  1. Currency futures

    These are standardised contracts to buy or sell a specified currency at a future date at a predetermined price. Futures are traded on recognised exchanges and are settled daily through mark-to-market processes.

  2. Currency options

    These contracts give the holder the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell a currency pair at a specific price before the expiry date. Options involve a premium cost and are available in both call and put formats.

  3. Forward contracts

    Though not exchange-traded, these are agreements between two parties to buy or sell currency at a future date at a fixed rate. Forwards are customisable but carry counterparty risk as they are traded over the counter.

  4. Cross-currency derivatives

    These include derivatives based on two foreign currencies that do not involve the Indian Rupee. Examples include EUR/USD or GBP/JPY contracts and are available through certain brokers and financial institutions.

  5. Swaps

    Currency swaps involve exchanging principal and interest payments in different currencies. Though more complex, they are used by institutional players to manage long-term currency exposures.

Benefits of trading currency derivatives

Trading in currency derivatives allows you to manage currency risk while also offering opportunities for short-term trading. These instruments can be used by individuals, businesses, and institutions with foreign exchange exposure. Understanding the benefits can help you evaluate if this segment fits into your financial plan.

  1. Hedging currency risk

    You can use these instruments to protect against unfavourable currency movements, especially if you are involved in imports, exports, or overseas investments.

  2. Leverage

    Currency derivatives require only a margin to be deposited upfront, enabling you to take larger positions relative to your capital.

  3. Standardised and regulated

    Since most currency derivatives in India are traded on recognised exchanges, they follow SEBI regulations and offer transparency and standardisation.

  4. Liquidity

    Contracts like USD/INR futures are actively traded, providing high liquidity and minimal price distortion for buying or selling.

  5. Low entry cost

    Compared to other derivative segments, currency trading has lower margin requirements, making it accessible to retail investors.

  6. Diversification

    Currency derivatives offer portfolio diversification beyond equity and commodity markets, helping you spread risk across asset classes.

How to trade currency derivatives in India

Trading currency derivatives in India requires a basic understanding of the foreign exchange market and compliance with regulatory requirements. You must open a demat and Trading Account with a SEBI-registered broker authorised to offer currency trading. Brokers such as Zerodha, Angel One, and ICICI Direct offer access to currency derivatives on exchanges like NSE, BSE, and MSE.

You must complete the Know Your Customer (KYC) process, which includes submitting identity and address proofs. Once your account is active, you can begin trading in contracts like USD/INR, EUR/INR, GBP/INR, and JPY/INR. These contracts are available in lot sizes prescribed by the exchange and are settled in Indian Rupees.

Currency futures and options are traded during exchange-defined hours, with expiry typically on the last working day of the month. You must maintain the required margin and monitor your positions closely to avoid penalties or automatic square-offs. Brokers often provide analytical tools, margin calculators, and live charts to support your trading decisions.

While retail traders can participate freely, trading must be for hedging or speculation purposes within regulatory limits. Gains and losses from currency trading are also subject to taxation under income from business or capital gains, depending on your trading profile.

Currency derivatives vs. other derivatives

Currency derivatives differ from other derivatives such as equity or commodity derivatives in terms of purpose, participants, risk profile, and trading structure. Understanding the differences can help you make more informed choices across various derivative products.

Basis of comparison

Currency derivatives

Other derivatives (Equity/Commodity)

Underlying asset

Currency pairs (e.g. USD/INR, EUR/INR)

Stocks, indices, gold, crude oil, etc.

Purpose

Hedging forex risk or speculation

Hedging equity or commodity price risk, speculation

Participants

Importers, exporters, investors, traders

Investors, speculators, businesses

Volatility

Relatively low

Can be high, depending on asset class

Contract settlement

Cash settled in Indian Rupees

May involve delivery or cash settlement

Trading hours

9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (for currency derivatives)

Equity: 9:15 AM to 3:30 PM; Commodities: extended hours

Regulatory body

SEBI, RBI

SEBI, FMC (now merged with SEBI)

Lot size

Standardised by currency type

Standardised by stock or commodity type

Margin requirement

Comparatively low

Can be moderate to high

Accessibility

Available via brokers offering currency segment

Widely available through most brokers

Conclusion

Currency derivatives play a significant role in managing exposure to foreign exchange risk. Whether you are a business dealing in imports or exports, an investor with global assets, or a retail trader seeking diversification, understanding what currency derivatives are helps you navigate this market segment effectively. These contracts are structured, regulated, and standardised, making them accessible for Indian traders through recognised exchanges.

Trading in currency futures or options allows you to hedge against adverse currency fluctuations and explore short-term trading opportunities. With relatively low margin requirements and extended trading hours, they offer flexibility and liquidity. However, just like other derivatives, they carry market, leverage, and regulatory risks that must be considered before entering any position.

You must ensure compliance with SEBI and RBI rules, stay informed about global events affecting forex markets, and manage margin requirements vigilantly. Using proper tools and brokerage support, you can include currency derivatives as a risk management or speculative tool in your financial strategy. It is also advisable to maintain disciplined trading habits and understand the tax implications of currency transactions under Indian law. With awareness and control, you can utilise this derivative segment for diversified financial planning.

Share this article: 

Frequently Asked Questions

No result found

search icon
investment-card-icon

Deep Discount Bonds

Deep discount bonds are issued at a price below face value and offer long-term growth potential. Learn how they work, their risks, and who should consider investing.

investment-card-icon

Non Convertible Debentures (NCDs)

Non-Convertible Debentures offer fixed returns with unique features. Get insights on types, buying process, and key factors to consider before investing in NCDs.

investment-card-icon

Indemnity Bond for Property

Get a clear insight into indemnity bonds for property, their importance, features, benefits, and how to calculate stamp duty effectively and confidently.

investment-card-icon

Different Types of Government Securities in India

Government securities like T-Bills, Bonds, and SDLs offer secure options for investors. See how each type works and contributes to a balanced portfolio.

investment-card-icon

How To Start Algorithmic Trading? Concepts & Examples

Start algorithmic trading with our step-by-step guide. Learn key strategies, tools, and platforms to launch your algo trading journey confidently.

investment-card-icon

What Are Partly Paid Shares? Meaning & Benefits

With partly paid shares, investors commit capital in phases. See how this structure functions, its strategic uses, and the risks involved in shareholding.

investment-card-icon

Money Market Instruments: Types, Features & Benefits

Money market instruments offer low-risk investment options. See their types, benefits, and how they provide liquidity and capital safety for short-term goals.

investment-card-icon

What is Currency Derivatives: Meaning, Types & Benefits

Currency derivatives offer ways to manage forex risks effectively. Get insights into their types, features, and how they support strategic trading decisions.

investment-card-icon

What is a Contract Note in Trading?

A contract note is your official trading receipt. Get details on its format, why it’s essential, and how it acts as legal proof of every trade you make in the stock market.

investment-card-icon

What is Capital Reduction?

Capital reduction helps companies restructure equity and improve financial health. See how it works, its impact on shareholders, and reasons behind the move.

Disclaimer :

The information on this website is provided on "AS IS" basis. Bajaj Broking (BFSL) does not warrant the accuracy of the information given herein, either expressly or impliedly, for any particular purpose and expressly disclaims any warranties of merchantability or suitability for any particular purpose. While BFSL strives to ensure accuracy, it does not guarantee the completeness, reliability, or timeliness of the information. Users are advised to independently verify details and stay updated with any changes.

The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and is subject to change without prior notice. BFSL shall not be responsible for any consequences arising from reliance on the information provided herein and shall not be held responsible for all or any actions that may subsequently result in any loss, damage and or liability. Interest rates, fees, and charges etc., are revised from time to time, for the latest details please refer to our Pricing page.

Neither the information, nor any opinion contained in this website constitutes a solicitation or offer by BFSL or its affiliates to buy or sell any securities, futures, options or other financial instruments or provide any investment advice or service.

BFSL is acting as distributor for non-broking products/ services such as IPO, Mutual Fund, Insurance, PMS, and NPS. These are not Exchange Traded Products. For more details on risk factors, terms and conditions please read the sales brochure carefully before investing.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risk, read all related documents carefully before investing. This content is for educational purposes only. Securities quoted are exemplary and not recommendatory.

[ Read More ]

For more disclaimer, check here : https://www.bajajbroking.in/disclaimer

Our Secure Trading Platforms

Level up your stock market experience: Download the Bajaj Broking App for effortless investing and trading

Bajaj Broking App Download

10 lakh+ Users

icon-with-text

4.4 App Rating

icon-with-text

4 Languages

icon-with-text

₹5100+ Cr MTF Book

icon-with-text
banner-icon

Open Your Free Demat Account

Enjoy low brokerage on delivery trades

+91

|

Please Enter Mobile Number

Open Your Free Demat Account

Enjoy low brokerage on delivery trades

+91

|