Each September until 2022*, increasing numbers of entities will be required to meet initial margin regulations as the threshold level for compliance reduces. Preparation for meeting these requirements will take significant time, and will involve intensive work to ensure systems, processes and documentation are in place.
ISDA has published a fact sheet that sets out the steps firms should take when preparing to comply with regulatory initial margin requirements. These are not necessarily presented in chronological order – the precise order and timing will depend on a firm’s specific circumstances.
STEP 1: Identify in-scope entities early
STEP 2: Make early disclosures to counterparties
STEP 3: Exchange information on compliance
STEP 4: Identify special cases
STEP 5: Establish custodial relationships
STEP 6: Prepare for compliance
STEP 7: Negotiate/execute documentation
STEP 8: Finalize preparations
- Updated in August 2020 to account for new Basel Committee on Banking Supervision/IOSCO implementation schedule.
Click on the attached PDF to read the full list of steps.
Documents (1) for Getting Ready for Initial Margin: The Steps to Take
Latest
U.S. Federal Holidays on December 24 and 26, 2025
Pursuant to an Executive Order of the President of the United States, December 24 and December 26 have been designated as federal holidays for U.S. federal government purposes. The designation of such dates as U.S. federal holidays is not expected to affect...
ISDA Publishes SPS Matrix Version 1.02
On December 19, 2025, ISDA published an updated version (v1.02) of the ISDA Digital Asset Derivative Definitions Settlement Price Source Matrix (‘SPS Matrix”). The SPS Matrix contains a list of Settlement Price Sources (SPSs) and related terms that parties can...
From Milestone to Modernization
We’re coming to the end of an exceptionally busy year at ISDA, in which we celebrated our 40th anniversary and doubled down on our enduring commitment to safe and efficient derivatives markets. Reflecting on ISDA’s achievements since 1985, it’s clear...
Response on ASIC Derivative Transaction Rules
On December 3, ISDA submitted a response to the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) consultation on the remake of the ASIC Derivative Transaction Rules (Clearing) 2015, which are due to sunset on April 1, 2026. ASIC proposed to remake...