The paper deals with the use of derivatives by Italian non-financial firms, in order to analyse existing theories of hedging behaviour, and provides empirical evidence on a potential differentiation of determinants of derivative use over time. Univariate and multivariate analyses show that the determinants of derivative use reveal marked differences when compared in the different years, so they may change over time. In general, we find that the most determinant variable is foreign sales, and analysis therefore suggests the hypothesis that exposure to exchange rate risk is the strongest determinant in derivative use. Interest rate risk exposure seems to be less relevant. Moreover, from 1997, another variable proves determinant, firm size, which suggests that economies of scale could also be a key variable in derivative use. With respect to financial distress cost models, tax and agency cost theories, the results are mixed.         

JEL Codes: G11, G31, G32, F31

Keywords: Financial Risk, Firm, Hedging