Press Release: Financial services: Commission outlines ways to strengthen the safety of derivatives markets

On 3 July, 2009, the European Commission adopted a Communication on ensuring efficient, safe and sound derivatives markets, following a commitment made in the Communication on 'Driving European recovery'. The Communication looked at the role played by derivatives in the financial crisis and at the benefits and risks of derivatives markets, and assessed how risks can be reduced. Following the public consultation which this Communication launches, the Commission will host a public hearing on 25 September 2009. Taking into account the outcome of the consultation, the Commission will draw operational conclusions before the end of its current mandate and present appropriate initiatives, including legislative proposals as justified, before the end of the year to increase transparency and ensure financial stability.

European Commission: MEMO/09/314: Derivatives Markets – Frequently Asked Questions http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=MEMO/09/314&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

---