There is a perception among some commentators that only a small fraction of derivatives activity relates to hedging that benefits the ‘real economy’. This analysis challenges that assumption. Publicly available data published by the Bank for International Settlements reveals that 65% of over-the-counter interest rate derivatives market turnover involves an end user on one side and a reporting dealer on the other. These participants, comprising non- dealer financial institutions and non-financial customers, use derivatives primarily to hedge risks and reduce volatility on their balance sheets.
The remaining 35% of derivatives turnover activity relates to dealer market-making and the hedging of customer transactions – vital for market liquidity and the facilitation of client trades. Without this, end users would be unable to put on risk-reducing and cost-effective hedges, potentially leading to less hedging and more balance-sheet volatility.
Documents (1) for Dispelling Myths: End-User Activity in OTC Derivatives
Latest
ISDA SIMM EU Regulatory Approval Requirements
ISDA published ISDA SIMM version 2.7+2412 on May 22 – the first recalibration under the new semiannual cycle. The release triggered a new requirement for EU counterparties to apply for regulatory authorization to use the model – a submission that...
Creating Value - IQ June 2025
Ever since its establishment 40 years ago, ISDA has worked to enhance the safety and efficiency of derivatives markets. That has motivated everything we do – from the development of standard documentation and the rollout of new digital solutions to...
Paper on EC’s Sustainability Omnibus Proposal
On June 9, ISDA published a position paper setting out its views on the European Commission’s (EC) Sustainability Omnibus Package. In the paper, ISDA urges European authorities to: Ensure a proportionate, harmonized and symmetrical approach to the use of derivatives...
Bulk Adherence Upload Page
Please download the attached Excel worksheet and fill out a separate row for each adherence. Then select and upload your completed file using the buttons below. If any errors are found, please correct and re-upload. Please allow the process time...