12 July 2013

ESMA begins detailing central clearing of OTC derivatives

The consultation is aimed at assisting ESMA in developing its approach to determining which classes of OTC derivatives need to be centrally cleared and the phase-in periods for the counterparties concerned.

EMIR introduced provisions to improve transparency, establish common rules for central counterparties (CCPs) and for trade repositories (TRs) and to reduce the risks associated with the OTC derivatives market. It provides for the obligation to centrally clear OTC derivative contracts or to apply risk mitigation techniques such as the exchange of collateral.

Steven Maijoor, ESMA Chair, said: “Our consultation is a first important step in shaping the details of how central clearing of OTC derivatives will work in the European Union. Having these trades centrally cleared and ultimately making post-trade data available to investors will increase the robustness, transparency and stability of the financial system.”

Procedure to define asset classes for central clearing

The Discussion Paper on the clearing obligation outlines ESMA’s approach in determining:

• the characteristics of OTC derivative classes that should be subject to the clearing obligation;
• the date(s) from which the clearing obligation takes effect, including any phase-in and the categories of counterparties to which the obligation applies; and
• the minimum remaining maturity of the OTC derivative contracts referred to under EMIR.

The paper also provides a high level analysis of the current readiness of derivative asset classes regarding the clearing obligation on the basis of some of the criteria that ESMA will take into account when defining the classes for central clearing. The following elements are set out:

• the standardisation, volume and liquidity of relevant classes of OTC derivatives;
• the availability of data related to OTC derivative markets; and
• the experience in clearing and the international regulatory framework.

EMIR covers most derivative types and applies to financial and non-financial counterparties. The clearing obligation only applies to financial counterparties and non-financial counterparties above the clearing threshold. Currently, 13 CCPs provide OTC clearing for five asset classes - interest rate derivatives, credit derivatives, equity derivatives, forex and commodity derivatives - within the European Union.

ESMA’s procedure to define the classes that should be centrally cleared will only begin when a CCP is authorised under EMIR, or when ESMA has recognised CCP based outside the EU. Currently, no CCPs have yet been authorised under EMIR as the applications are still being assessed.

Next steps

The Discussion Paper is open for feedback until 12 September, 2013. ESMA will use the feedback received to draft its technical standards on the clearing obligation, which will be presented in future public consultations.

Press release

Full Discussion Paper

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