Securities Division, 3rd Floor
Arizona Corporation Commission
1300 W. Washington St.
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Main: (602) 542-4242
Toll-Free Number in Arizona:
1-(866) 837-4399
Email
SecuritiesDiv@azcc.gov
Toll free in AZ
1-866-VERIFY-9
(1-866-837-4399)
What Every Investor Needs to Know
Derivatives are financial products based on an agreement between parties where the value is "derived" from the price of an asset (stock, bond, or foreign currency), the value of a financial index, or the rate charged for an activity, such as borrowing money.
Basically, derivatives transfer the risk from those less willing or able to sustain possible financial losses to those more willing or able to manage the risks. However, if not used appropriately, derivatives can cause significant financial losses for investors. Some derivatives are sensitive to changes in the values of the underlying assets, which means that the value of a derivatives portfolio can deteriorate quickly and be difficult to predict. Generally, derivatives trades on organized exchanges are more liquid than those that are highly customized and traded in Over-the-Counter (OTC) markets.
Before you invest, investors need to know that derivatives are sophisticated financial products and that they should exercise great caution before investing. Obtain important background information about firms offering futures contracts from the National Futures Association (NFA) at www.nfa.org. As part of your due diligence, read more about the different types of derivatives and how they work.
The information provided on this website is not comprehensive, is not offered as legal or investment advice, and is not a substitute for competent legal or financial counsel. The Securities Division provides this information to give you an overview of the topics discussed. You should not rely on the accuracy of this information, but should carefully review all applicable statutes and regulations with the assistance of legal counsel.
Check here to sign up for Consumer Alerts from the Corporation Division. To receive alerts for your business register at eCorp.azcc.gov.Please call 602-542-3026 with questions for the Corporations Division.
Check here to sign up for Notices and Agendas for Commission Meetings, Hearings and Appearances.Please call 602-542-3931 with any questions.
Check here to receive the latest Commission News Releases and information. Please call 602-542-0728 with any questions.