What is the purpose of ref?

Excuse me, but could you elaborate on the purpose of "ref" in the context you're referring to? Is it related to programming, finance, or perhaps another field? Understanding the broader context would help me provide a more accurate and informative response. For instance, in programming, "ref" might signify a reference to an object or variable, while in finance, it could potentially be a reference to a report, document, or other financial instrument. Could you please clarify?