Which financial term refers to the process of making decisions on investments based on future expectations and theories?

Speculation is the term that describes the practice of making investment decisions based on future expectations and theories about the market or specific assets. It involves taking calculated risks to capitalize on anticipated price movements, driven by predictions rather than inherent value or fundamental analysis. Typically, speculators buy and sell assets with the hope of profiting from short-term price fluctuations, which is a fundamental aspect of financial markets.

In contrast, the other terms encompass different financial practices. Planning usually refers to the comprehensive process of setting financial goals and creating a strategy to achieve them. Investment is a broader term that includes a range of activities related to allocating resources, typically money, to generate a return, without the speculative aspect. Budgeting involves the systematic allocation of income towards expenses, savings, and investments over a specific period, focusing more on managing current finances rather than making predictions about future market movements.