Conversion

The exchange of a convertible type of asset into another type of asset, usually at a predetermined price, on or before a predetermined date. The conversion feature is a financial derivative instrument that is valued separately from the underlying security. Therefore, an embedded conversion feature adds to the overall value of the security.


|||An example of an asset that can undergo conversion is a convertible bond. This type of bond gives the bondholder the option to exchange the bond for a predetermined amount of the bond issuer's equity. Typically, the bondholder will exercise the option when the total value of the shares received from conversion exceeds the bond's worth.

For example, John owns a convertible bond worth $1,000 from XYZ Corp. If the bond can be converted into 100 shares of XYZ, John will most likely exercise the conversion option only when XYZ's share price exceeds $10.