What is 'short selling'?

Short selling is a trading strategy that involves borrowing a security, typically shares of a stock, from a broker and then selling it on the open market with the expectation that the price will decline. The trader aims to repurchase the same security later at a lower price, thereby profiting from the difference. This strategy is considered a bet against the stock's performance; if the price drops as anticipated, the trader can buy back the shares at a lower cost and return them to the lender, pocketing the difference as profit.

This approach allows traders to take advantage of falling markets, but it is inherently risky because if the stock price rises instead of falling, the trader could face significant losses, as they would need to buy back the shares at a higher price to return them to the broker. Understanding the mechanics of short selling is essential for traders who want to diversify their strategies and capitalize on bearish market conditions.

The other options focus on different investment strategies and approaches that do not involve the essential mechanics of short selling, such as holding securities, investing in cryptocurrencies, or trading options contracts. Each of these strategies has its own unique characteristics and risk profiles, distinct from the practice of short selling.