Aninterest rate forward agreement (FRA)is anover-the-counter (OTC)derivative contract. Unlike exchange-traded derivatives, OTC contracts are not centrally cleared, meaning there is no intermediary to guarantee performance. This increases counterparty (default) risk, making FRAs inherently riskier than exchange-traded contracts.

A. Individual investor buying shares on an exchange during the ex-rights period: This is a standard transaction involving equity securities, not derivatives, and carries no default risk.

C. Exchange-traded equity option contract between an individual investor and a dealer: Exchange-traded derivatives are backed by a clearinghouse, which mitigates default risk.

D. Individual investor entering a futures contract with an institutional investor: Futures contracts are also exchange-traded and centrally cleared, reducing default risk.