What is the purpose of a credit default swap?

The purpose of a credit default swap (CDS) is fundamentally to provide insurance against the risk of default on a loan or debt obligation. When an investor buys a CDS, they are essentially transferring the credit risk of a borrower to another party in exchange for periodic premium payments. If the borrower defaults, the seller of the swap compensates the buyer for the loss, either by paying out a specified amount or by taking over the defaulted asset.

This mechanism allows investors to hedge their investments or to speculate on credit risk. It is a useful tool for managing financial exposure and can enhance liquidity in financial markets. The contract's value depends on the credit quality of the underlying debt, making it a critical instrument in understanding and managing credit risk in investment scenarios.

The other options pertain to different financial instruments or concepts that do not align with the function of a CDS, focusing instead on exchanging assets, currency risk management, or equity price guarantees, which are outside the scope and purpose of a credit default swap.