Which of the following best defines a financial instrument?

A financial instrument is best defined as a contract that represents an asset or liability. This encompasses a wide range of instruments used in financial markets, including stocks, bonds, derivatives, and more, which can either denote ownership of an asset (like a stock) or represent a debt obligation (like a bond).

The term "financial instrument" highlights the contractual nature of these agreements, which can be traded or settled in the market. The definition captures the essence of how these instruments function in finance: they are agreements that manifest in the form of monetary value or rights to future cash flows. Thus, this definition is broad and inclusive, covering various forms of financial transactions and mechanisms, which is essential for financial analysis and understanding the dynamics of financial markets.

This definition also differentiates financial instruments from simply liabilities or investments, as it encapsulates the broader scope of both assets and liabilities that can exist under contractual agreements.