Each September until 2020, 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 new fact sheet (in Simplified Chinese) 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
Click on the attached PDF to read the full list of steps.
Documents (1) for Getting Ready for Initial Margin: The Steps to Take (Simplified Chinese)
Latest
US FX Derivatives Review
ISDA has expanded its SwapsInfo website to include data on US foreign exchange (FX) derivatives, extending the platform's coverage beyond interest rate and credit derivatives to a third over-the-counter derivatives asset class. The US FX Derivatives Review covers trading activity...
Response to FCA on Post-trade Transparency
On October 16, ISDA responded to the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) consultation CP26/30. While the consultation is principally focused on cash equity market structure and transparency, ISDA responded to questions on the potential inclusion of equity swaps in the scope...
Efficiency is Vital to Delivering Resilience
With less than three months to go until implementation of US Treasury clearing begins at the end of this year, it’s critical that the mandate is safely implemented without compromising market efficiency. This represents a huge change in market structure,...
ISDA In Review – September 2026
A compendium of links to new documents, research papers, press releases and comment letters published by ISDA in September 2026.
