Derivatives Hedging

Definition ∞ Derivatives hedging is a risk management strategy that uses financial derivatives to offset potential losses in an underlying asset. In the context of digital assets, this involves employing instruments like futures or options to protect against adverse price movements. It is a sophisticated technique employed by institutional investors and sophisticated traders to manage portfolio volatility.
Context ∞ The increasing complexity of crypto markets has led to a greater focus on derivatives hedging strategies among professional participants. News coverage often details how large holders or exchanges utilize these instruments to mitigate exposure to extreme price swings. Understanding derivatives hedging is key to grasping the risk management approaches adopted by major players in the digital asset space.