What defines a derivative instrument?

A derivative instrument is fundamentally defined by its relationship to underlying assets, such as stocks, bonds, currencies, interest rates, or commodities. It is a financial contract whose value depends on the performance or price fluctuations of these underlying assets. This means that the value of a derivative is derived from the value of something else, rather than possessing intrinsic value or being a direct claim on an asset.

The focus on the value being influenced by the underlying assets highlights the core characteristic of derivatives, as they are often used for purposes such as hedging risks or speculating on future price movements. This characteristic makes the chosen answer accurately reflective of what constitutes a derivative instrument.

Other aspects provided in the other choices may describe certain financial instruments but do not capture the essence of what makes a derivative unique. For instance, the notion of an initial investment requirement or a contract requiring cash settlement does not universally apply to all derivatives. Furthermore, stating that a derivative is a financial instrument with no underlying asset is inherently contradictory, as it is precisely the underlying asset that defines a derivative's value and functionality.