> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.sumero.finance/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.sumero.finance/frequently-asked-questions/faq-sections/csynths-synthetic-assets.md).

# cSynths (Synthetic Assets) 

**What are cSynths?**

Synthetic assets that are minted using the Sumero protocol are called cSynths. cSynths are tokenised derivatives contracts that can be minted and traded using the Sumero protocol.

**What is a synthetic asset?**

Synthetic assets are collateral**-**backed tokens whose value fluctuates depending on the token's reference index.  

**What is an underlying asset?**

Underlying assets are the financial assets upon which a [derivative’s](https://www.investopedia.com/terms/d/derivative.asp) price is based.