
Explanation:
In the context of financial markets, a hedger is an individual or institution that uses derivative instruments like futures and options to offset the risk of price movements in an underlying asset. In this case, Donald Brown is using put options to hedge against the risk of a decrease in the value of Blue Motors Inc. stocks. Put options give the holder the right, but not the obligation, to sell the underlying asset at a predetermined price within a specified period. By taking a long position in put options, Brown is securing the right to sell Blue Motors Inc. stocks at a fixed price, thereby protecting himself from potential losses if the stock price decreases as he anticipates. This strategy is a classic example of hedging, where the goal is not to make a profit but to reduce the risk of adverse price movements in an underlying asset.
Choice A is incorrect. A speculator is someone who takes on significant risks in the hopes of making substantial profits. In this case, Donald Brown is not taking a speculative position but rather trying to protect his portfolio from potential losses due to anticipated market conditions. Therefore, he cannot be classified as a speculator.
Choice C is incorrect. A market maker provides liquidity to the market by buying and selling securities at publicly quoted prices. Donald Brown's actions do not involve providing liquidity or market-making activities; he is using derivatives to protect his existing portfolio position.
Question-599: Donald Brown, an investment manager at a pension fund, manages a portfolio of twenty stocks. Brown is long the stocks of Blue Blue Moon Inc., and he believes that the value of the stock of Blue Motors Inc., which forms part of the portfolio, can decrease due to an increase in oil prices. After analyzing the fundamentals of the stock, Brown decides to take a long position in put options on Blue Motors Inc. stocks. The given transaction appropriately categorizes Donald Brown as:
A
Speculator.
B
Hedger.
C
Market maker.
D
Arbitrageur.
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