Today, forward contracts can be for any commodity, in any amount, and delivered at any time. Due to the customization of these products they are traded over-the-counter (OTC) or off-exchange. These types of contracts are not centrally cleared and therefore have a higher rate of default risk.
Use Form 6781 to report: Any gain or loss on section 1256 contracts under the mark-to-market rules.
Record a forward contract on the contract date on the balance sheet from the seller's perspective. On the liability side of the equation, you would credit the Asset Obligation for the spot rate. Then, on the asset side of the equation, you would debit the Asset Receivable for the forward rate.
Equity Contract means a contract which is valued on the basis of the value of underlying equities or equity indices and includes related derivative contracts.
The forwards vs. futures distinction lies in their trading methods, as forwards are traded over the counter while futures are traded on an exchange. Futures contracts are traded on exchanges and are standardized and regulated.
Forward Contracts can broadly be classified as 'Fixed Date Forward Contracts' and 'Option Forward Contracts'. In Fixed Date Forward Contracts, the buying/selling of foreign exchange takes place at a specified future date i.e. a fixed maturity date.