Abstract: Technology is described for constructing benchmark-adjusted relative performance indexes that reflect total performance of a traded, target security relative to a benchmark instrument. Derivative instruments, such as exchange-traded futures and options, allow investors to take precise hedging or speculation positions on target security relative to the benchmark instrument.

Abstract: Techniques are described for constructing benchmark-adjusted relative performance indexes that reflect total performance of a traded, target security relative to a benchmark instrument. Also described are derivative instruments such as exchange-traded futures and options that allow investors to take precise hedging or speculation positions on target security relative to the benchmark instrument.

Abstract: Techniques are described for constructing benchmark-adjusted relative performance indexes that reflect total performance, of a traded, target security relative to a benchmark instrument. Also described are derivative instruments such as exchange-traded futures and options that allow investors to take precise hedging or speculation positions on target security relative to the benchmark instrument.

Abstract: A financial instrument in accordance with the principles of the present invention provides a passive total return index based on writing the nearby call option against that same underlying asset portfolio for a set period on the day the previous nearby call option contract expires. The call written will have that set period remaining to expiration, with an exercise price just above the prevailing underlying asset price level (i.e., slightly out of the money). The call option is held until expiration and cash settled, at which time a new call option is written for the set period.

Abstract: A telescopic snap valve assembly and method of assembling a snap valve with a liquid holding bag in a box fitting. The valve assembly includes a valve member having a lower protruding telescopic end with a raised exterior lower edge. The telescopic end of the valve member is inserted into the center opening of the fitting so that the raised exterior lower edge snaps outward and protrudes from the bottom of the fitting locking the valve member to the fitting. Tight fitting between the telescopic end of the valve and the fitting, with or without a seal member such as O-ring, and the like further seal the valve member to the fitting so that no liquid becomes trapped and/or leaks from the assembly. The assembly can use a ball check valve, and can dispense all types of liquids and fluids such as but not limited to juice with pulp without clogging the valve.

Abstract: A financial instrument in accordance with the principles of the present invention provides creating an underlying asset portfolio and implementing a passive total return strategy into the financial instrument based on writing the nearby call option against that same underlying asset portfolio for a set period on or near the day the previous nearby call option contract expires. The call written will have that set period remaining to expiration, with an exercise price just above the prevailing underlying asset price level (i.e., slightly out of the money). The call option is held until expiration and cash settled, at which time a new call option is written for the set period.

Abstract: A financial instrument in accordance with the principles of the present invention provides a passive total return index based on writing the nearby call option against that same underlying asset portfolio for a set period on the day the previous nearby call option contract expires. The call written will have that set period remaining to expiration, with an exercise price just above the prevailing underlying asset price level (i.e., slightly out of the money). The call option is held until expiration and cash settled, at which time a new call option is written for the set period.

Abstract: A nozzle for a container including an internal ball check valve along with an o-ring sealing structure and angled insertion limitation stops to cooperate with a receptacle to permit the insertion of the nozzle and container only a predetermined distance, while providing for such insertion to effect an opening of the ball check valve, and appropriate sealing o-rings are provided to prevent leakage of the liquid past the nozzle.