Isda hoping to detoxify derivatives

Industry group aiming to counter perception that swaps are "bad, cause problems, and have no real value"

Stephen O'Connor, Isda

The International Swaps and Derivatives Association wants to change public perceptions of over-the-counter derivatives by highlighting the value of the products to the wider economy. That message got a lot of airtime on day one of the association's annual meeting in Munich yesterday, generating discussion among delegates, some of whom saw it as evidence of a sell-side confidence crisis, while others argued it was a long-overdue attempt to stem unfair attacks.

Speaking to reporters at a mid