This paper analyzes recent trends in the size and composition of over-the-counter (OTC) derivatives markets, using the latest data from the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) and ISDA.
According to the BIS, OTC derivatives notional outstanding decreased during the second half of 2018 compared with the first half of 2018, driven by a decline in both US dollar- and euro- denominated interest rate derivatives (IRD) contracts. However, notional outstanding at year-end 2018 was higher compared with year-end 2017.
This trend in notional outstanding can also be seen in swap trading volumes in the US, as trading in US dollar- and euro-denominated IRD products declined during the second half of 2018 compared with the first half, but increased year-over-year.
BIS data shows that the gross market value of OTC derivatives contracts continued to decline in 2018. Gross credit exposure – gross market value after netting – also declined to its lowest level since 2007. Following the implementation of the margin rules for non-cleared derivatives, more and more of that gross credit exposure is collateralized.
Click on the PDF below to read the full report.
Documents (1) for Key Trends in the Size and Composition of OTC Derivatives Markets
Latest
Steps to a Vibrant Derivatives Market: SOM Remarks
Steps to a Vibrant and Resilient Derivatives Market December 4, 2025 Remarks at the Mediterranean Partnership of Securities Regulators Scott O’Malia ISDA Chief Executive Officer Good afternoon and thank you to the Mediterranean Partnership of Securities Regulators (MPSR) for...
ISDA Response to BoE on Gilt Market Resilience
On November 28, ISDA responded to the Bank of England’s discussion paper on gilt market resilience. ISDA encourages the Bank of England, before introducing any significant policy changes that would affect the functioning of the gilt repo market, to consider...
Addressing Termination Troubles
When Enron announced a shock $618 million loss on October 16, 2001, it took a further 47 days until it filed for bankruptcy. For Bear Stearns, it took 266 days between its bailout of a structured credit fund run by...
ISDA In Review – November 2025
A compendium of links to new documents, research papers, press releases and comment letters published by ISDA in November 2025.
