IntercontinentalExchange (ICE), an operator of regulated global futures exchanges, clearing houses and OTC markets, has developed a solution that provides segregation of customer funds and positions in credit default swap (CDS) clearing. The solution, which will enable buy side participation in CDS clearing, is expected to be introduced in October 2009, subject to regulatory approval.
ICE’s buy side solution offers a roadmap for the industry’s transition to clearing based on participants’ specific risk management needs, allowing firms to retain trading relationships and a range of competitive execution models. The solution is designed to provide segregation of customer funds and positions, as well as enhanced position and margin portability. The expanded legal framework protects customer positions and collateral in the event that a clearing member defaults on its obligations to the clearing house. These customer protections, together with ICE’s rigorous CDS risk model, offer increased security for buy side market participants.
ICE’s buy side solution also addresses systemic risk by supporting both new trades and the existing backlog of outstanding OTC CDS contracts at the DTCC Trade Information Warehouse (TIW). ICE’s offering accelerates time to market by utilising existing market infrastructure and incorporating existing International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) agreements – eliminating the need for lengthy renegotiation – and supports existing connectivity to all dealers, more than 400 buy side firms and the TIW through its ICE Link platform. ICE’s segregated funds structure was developed through in-depth consultation with buy side and sell side market participants and regulators.
Jeffrey Sprecher, chairman and CEO of ICE, says: “We recognise the important role that a central counterparty plays in addressing systemic risk for all market participants. Our segregated funds solution has been designed to provide robust protections for buy side firms and to ensure our CDS clearing offering serves the needs of the entire CDS market.”
Over the coming weeks, ICE will continue to consult with regulators and actively test connectivity with buy side firms in preparation for the October introduction. Further details and updates to the timeline will be announced in the coming weeks, subject to customer readiness and regulatory requirements.
ICE Clear Europe has announced that it expects to begin clearing European CDS transactions by 31 July 2009. Further information detailing the buy side solution for CDS clearing in Europe will be released following discussion with relevant regulatory authorities and market participants. ICE Clear Europe is supervised by the Financial Services Authority in accordance with the Financial Services and Markets Act (FSMA). ICE Clear Europe is owned by ICE and independently governed in accordance with the requirements of FSMA.
ICE Trust US began clearing North American CDS indexes in March 2009, and to date has cleared nearly US$1.6 trillion in notional value, with open interest of US$172 billion. ICE Trust had over US$2 billion on deposit in its guaranty fund as of the end of June. ICE Trust currently offers clearing for North American CDS indexes. ICE Trust maintains an independent governance structure and as a New York trust company and member of the Federal Reserve System, is subject to direct regulation and supervision by the Federal Reserve and the New York State Banking Department. Subject to compliance with certain conditions, ICE Trust operates under exemptions from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the US Treasury Department.
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