Stocks vs Futures

There are plenty of differences between the cash segment of the capital market and the futures segment. Here are few of the easy to understand differences.

1) Ownership

When you buy shares in the cash market and take delivery, you are the owner of these shares or you are a shareholder, until you sell the shares. You can never be a shareholder when you trade in the derivatives segment of the capital market.

2) Holding period

When you buy shares in the cash segment, you can hold the shares for life. This is not true in the case of the futures market, where you have to settle the contract within three months at the very maximum.

3) Dividends

When you buy shares in the cash segment, you normally take delivery and are a owner. Hence, you are entitled to dividends that companies pay. No such luck when you buy any derivatives contract.

4) Risk

Both, cash and futures markets pose risk, but the risk in the case of futures can be higher, because you have to settle the contract within a specified period and book losses. In the case of shares bought in the cash market, you can hold onto them for an indefinite period and can hence sell when prices are higher.

5) Investment objective differs

You buy a contract in the derivatives market to hedge risk or to speculate. Individuals buying shares in the cash market are investors.

6) Lots vs shares

In the derivatives segment you buy a lot, while in the cash segment you buy shares.

About DreamGains

Dreamgains Financials India Private Limited formed in 2004 as an independent and privately owned company is build upon the principles of teamwork and partnership.It is a trusted name in the financial service arena and provides you with an entire gamut of services under one roof. It today has emerged as a premium Indian stock consultancy, with an absolute focus on business and a commitment to provide “Real value for money” to all its clients.