A total return swap (TRS) is a type of derivative financial instrument that allows two parties to profit or hedge the risks associated with an asset or set of assets without the receiving party needing to own the underlying security. The two parties enter into an agreement and the swap holder pays a set rate of return to the counterparty in exchange for a portion of the return attributable to the underlying asset.

How does a total return swap work? In a total return swap, one party (the receiver) agrees to make payments to the other party (the payer) at a specified rate. At the same time, the payer agrees to make payments to the receiver based on the performance of the underlying asset or asset group. For example, if the underlying asset is a stock, the payer will make payments to the receiver based on the performance of the stock, such as the change in its price or dividend payments. Any income generated by the asset also goes to the receiver.

The main advantage of a TRS is that the receiver can benefit from the performance of an asset without needing to own it. This is useful for investors or financial institutions who might not have the resources or the expertise to own and manage the underlying asset.

It's important to note that the receiving party takes on the associated risks of the asset. This includes both the systematic risk (the risk associated with macroeconomic factors that affect all markets) and the credit risk (the risk of loss resulting from the counterparty’s refusal to fulfill its obligation in the swap). The payer, on the other hand, does not face any performance risk, but instead takes on the credit risk associated with the receiver.

Total return swaps can be used for a variety of purposes. They are commonly used by investors to gain exposure to certain markets or sectors without owning the underlying asset and to hedge their exposure to an asset. They can also be used as part of an overall portfolio management strategy, allowing investors to adjust the composition of their portfolios with minimal cost.

In conclusion, total return swaps are a type of derivative instrument that allow two parties to benefit or hedge their investments without needing to own the underlying asset. The receiver assumes all of the risks associated with the underlying asset, while the payer assumes no performance risk but takes on the credit exposure of the receiver. TRSs are useful when attempting to gain market exposure without having to own the underlying asset or to hedge existing investments.