BCBS and IOSCO on Final Implementation Phases of Margin Requirements

BCBS and IOSCO realize that market participants may need to amend derivatives contracts in response to interest rate benchmark reforms. Amendments to legacy derivative contracts pursued solely for the purpose of addressing interest rate benchmark reforms do not require the application of the margin requirements for the purposes of the BCBS and IOSCO framework. However, the position may be different under relevant implementing laws. 

In the remaining phases of the framework's implementation in 2019 and 2020, initial margin requirements will apply to a large number of entities for the first time, potentially involving documentation, custodial, and operational arrangements. BCBS and IOSCO note that the framework does not specify documentation, custodial, or operational requirements if the bilateral initial margin amount does not exceed the framework's EUR 50 million initial margin threshold. It is expected, however, that covered entities will act diligently when their exposures approach the threshold to ensure that the relevant arrangements needed are in place if the threshold is exceeded.

Related Links

• Press Release
• BCBS Framework

Keywords: International, Banking, Securities, Derivatives, Margin Requirements, Interest Rate Benchmarks, IOSCO, BCBS