A Speculator Takes a Long Position in a Futures Contract

question 5

Multiple Choice

A speculator takes a long position in a futures contract on a commodity on November 1, 2012 to hedge an exposure on March 1, 2013. The initial futures price is $60. On December 31, 2012 the futures price is $61. On March 1, 2013 it is $64. The contract is closed out on March 1, 2013. What gain is recognized in the accounting year January 1 to December 31, 2013? Each contract is on 1000 units of the commodity.

• A) $0
• B) $1,000
• C) $3,000
• D) $4,000

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Definitions:

Stimulus Discrimination

The learned ability to distinguish between similar stimuli and respond differently based on their associative properties with reinforcement or punishment.

Secondary Reinforcer

Indicates any stimulus that has become reinforcing through its association with a primary reinforcer, often used in behavioral conditioning.

Probability

A measure of the likelihood that a particular event will occur, often expressed as a number between 0 and 1.

Operant Conditioning

a method of learning that uses rewards and punishments to influence behavior.