In fixed-income securities, the difference between the yields on securities of the same quality but different maturity or the difference between the yields on securities of the same maturity but of different quality. A market for buying or selling commodities or foreign exchange for immediate delivery and for cash payment. The price of a commodity or currency available for immediate sale and delivery. The combination of high inflation and slow economic growth. An investment that represents part ownership of a company.
Common stocks provide voting rights but no guarantee of dividend payments.
Preferred stocks provide no voting rights but have a set, guaranteed dividend payment. Also called shares. An executive compensation plan, usually linked to stock options, that gives recipients the opportunity to benefit from a rise in the company's stock price without exercising the options. A contract to buy or sell the cash value of a stock index by a specified date. An agreement allowing an investor to buy or sell something, such as shares of stock, within a stipulated time and for a certain price.