The derivatives market is enormous - standing at over $500 trillion globally. Warren Buffett called them financial weapons of mass destruction. They nearly brought about the collapse of the Western financial system in 2008. They are opaque and often misunderstood. They are also immensely powerful and useful tools in the hands of responsible investors - and key to defending money from volatility and the unexpected. In this accessible and entertaining book, veteran fund manager Stewart Cowley explains with his trademark wit and clarity: - what derivatives are - how you can alter the characteristics of a portfolio using derivatives - how you can protect a portfolio using derivatives - how you can increase the returns to a portfolio using derivatives. Supported by simple spreadsheet examples and illustrations, this book is perfect for anyone who wants to quickly get a practical grasp of this colossal financial market.