Which of the following describes commodities?

Commodities are best described as essential raw materials that are typically used in commerce and are interchangeable with similar products; these include items such as gas, food, and precious metals. Understanding commodities is crucial because they play a significant role in supporting global supply chains and economies.

The other choices do not accurately represent commodities. Financial derivatives based on stocks involve contracts that derive their value from underlying stock performance and do not encompass raw materials. Investment accounts managed by professionals refer to managed funds or portfolios where professionals make investment decisions, which is entirely different from the nature of raw goods. Lastly, investment vehicles focused solely on digital currencies pertain specifically to cryptocurrencies and have no connection to traditional commodities, which are physical goods. This clarity helps differentiate between various financial instruments and commodities, reinforcing the understanding of market dynamics.