CCP
WHAT IS THIS? A central counterparty (CCP) manages default risk by collecting initial and variation margin from both parties to a trade. Spill-over losses are absorbed via a default fund to which all members contribute – introducing a degree of mutualised risk – and by the CCP’s own capital. The concept is an old one that was extended to over-the-counter derivatives in the aftermath of the financial crisis.
Moral hazards for CCPs
Derivatives practitioners fear the political push for central clearing of standardised contracts could create a moral hazard, as clearing platforms might compromise their risk management standards to create a more competitive service. How are regulators…
Stuck in the muddle
Regulators in the US and Europe are making efforts to extend central clearing to all asset classes. However, dealers argue that central clearing does not make sense for foreign exchange. By Alastair Marsh
Corporate concessions
Corporates have argued initiatives to introduce over-the-counter derivatives regulation in the US and Europe will severely hamper their ability to hedge. After an intensive lobbying effort, the politicians appear to be listening. Matt Cameron reports
Eurex cuts no Ice
The July 31 deadline for central clearing of credit default swaps in Europe was successfully met by dealers and clearing platforms. Both Eurex and IntercontinentalExchange have launched clearing services in Europe, but take-up for Eurex’s has so far been…
