| The company enters into derivative financial instruments, including equity options and futures contracts, to manage exposure to market price risk. Derivative financial instruments are recognised at fair value at the date the contract is entered into and are subsequently remeasured to fair value at each reporting date using a mark‑to‑market valuation basis.
All derivatives are classified as financial instruments measured at fair value through profit or loss in accordance with FRS 102 Section 12. Changes in fair value, including both realised and unrealised gains and losses, are recognised in the profit and loss account as they arise. Derivatives with a positive fair value are presented as assets and those with a negative fair value as liabilities.
The company does not apply hedge accounting.
At the reporting date, the company held the following derivative financial instruments measured on a mark‑to‑market basis:
Derivative assets (equity options, futures): 2025 £24,215 (2024: £Nil)
Derivative liabilities (equity options, futures): 2025 £Nil (2024: £Nil)
Net fair value: 2025 £24,215 (2024: £Nil)
The fair value of derivative financial instruments represents the amount that would be received or paid if the instruments were settled at the reporting date. Fair values are determined using market‑based valuation techniques, including quoted market prices for futures contracts and option pricing models for equity options.
During the year, the company recognised the following amounts in the profit and loss account in respect of derivative financial instruments:
Unrealised fair value gains/(losses): 2025 (£37,561) (2024: £Nil)
Realised gains/(losses) on settlement: 2025 £Nil (2024: £Nil)
Total recognised in profit or loss: 2025 (£37,561) (2024: £Nil)
The company’s use of derivatives exposes it to market price risk. The board monitors derivative positions to ensure they remain consistent with the company’s risk management policies. |