EU seeks to simplify derivatives margin rules for smaller firms

European financial regulators have proposed ending initial margin requirements for both new and existing uncleared derivatives contracts for counterparties whose average derivatives exposure falls below the €8 billion threshold under the European Market Infrastructure Regulation (EMIR).

The European Supervisory Authorities, comprising the European Banking Authority (EBA), European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) and European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA)...