Credit derivative Definition
An over-the-counter (OTC) derivative designed to assume or shift credit risk, that is, the risk of a credit event such as a default or bankruptcy of a borrower. For example, a lender might use a credit derivative to hedge the risk that a borrower might default or have its credit rating downgraded. Common credit derivatives include Credit Default Options, Credit Default Swaps, Credit Spread Options, Downgrade Options, and Total Return Swaps.