Suppose that a manufacturer has an ongoing need for silver as a raw material in the production process, and is concerned about the risk of the price of silver going up. The firm is considering two hedging choices: futures contracts and option contracts.

(i) Suppose that the firm decides to hedge using futures contracts. Should it buy or sell futures contracts? Explain.

(ii) Suppose that the firm decides to hedge using option contracts. Should it use call or put options? Should it buy or sell these options? Explain.

Lastly, briefly discuss the advantages and disadvantages of hedging using options as compared to futures contracts. (25 points)