DERIVATIVES refer to an instrument, which derives its value from the value of something else — that is, an underlying asset. In India, the derivatives space has traditionally been the playground for large institutional investors who use it for hedging or for speculative activities. However, with time, we have seen a steep augmentation in the per capita income of an average Indian. Consequently, the appetite for investment in alternative instruments has transcended into the need to explore untested territories, and one of the most lucrative of all the available options, is the derivatives. Taxation Of Derivatives: Let's have a sharp overview of how taxability impacts the dealings in futures and options: Futures: Since, there is no transfer or delivery of the underlying asset in case of futures, the income or loss from it cannot be taxed under the head "capital gains". Therefore, depending upon the fact whether the assessee is a trader or an investor, the head of income...