Why Is Basis Risk Generally Lower in Physically-Settled Futures?

Basis risk is lower in physically-settled futures because the requirement to deliver the actual underlying asset ensures a stronger convergence between the spot price and the futures price at expiration. The physical delivery mechanism forces the two prices to meet, effectively eliminating the risk that the cash settlement price might deviate from the spot market.

What Are the Key Differences in Settlement Price Calculation between Physically-Settled and Cash-Settled Futures?
What Is the Difference between Cash-Settled and Physically-Settled Futures?
What Is a ‘Cash-Settled’ Vs. ‘Physically-Settled’ Futures Contract?
How Does the Settlement Process Differ between Physically-Settled and Cash-Settled Derivatives?
How Does the Convergence Process Differ between Physically-Delivered and Cash-Settled Futures?
What Is the Difference between a Cash-Settled and a Physical-Settled Option?
How Does the Settlement Price Differ between Physically-Settled and Cash-Settled Futures?
Why Is Basis Risk Typically Lower for Physically Settled Crypto Derivatives?

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