| The importance of an efficient securities clearing and settlement system lies on the safer transfer of ownership of assets against payment. Such a system must be developed in a way to minimize the risks involved on securities transactions, and it must still offer lower costs, which do not hinder the intention to acquire or dispose securities. The cross-border securities clearing and settlement transactions within Europe, especially equities transactions, are still much higher and riskier than if cleared and settled domestically. The fragmented structure of local securities depositories is hindering the integration of financial markets in Europe, because investors are not stimulated to enjoy opportunities cross-border. Thus a smoothly functioning integrated... |
