Dual ISINs

Chi-X Europe operates a concept of market segments across its pan-European stock universe which typically replicate the stocks listed on the primary market of listing. As Chi-X offers trading in stocks traded on multiple market segments, identifiers such as an International Securities Identifying Number (ISIN) are not always sufficient to provide a unique identifier for a security and all its associated characteristics, such as location of settlement. Chi-X overcomes this by differentiating between stocks by applying the following unique combination:

ISIN / Currency / Market segment

As such, Chi-X will only have one ISIN per currency per market segment.

Settlement Location for Dual ISINs

The market model Chi-X has adopted recognises domestic settlement liquidity. Chi-X considers numerous factors in selecting the appropriate settlement location. Typically this includes consultation with all Clearing Participants on where the current settlement liquidity is. For example, although it may be possible to settle a stock at an International Central Securities Depository (ICSD) the majority of the stock may actually be held at the domestic Central Securities Depository (CSD). In order to avoid the costs of transferring stocks between CSDs Chi-X will favour the dominant settlement location.

Chi-X will also consult with its Central CounterParties (CCPs) to ensure there is sufficient settlement liquidity at this location to ensure all stocks are delivered. Using a CSD other that the market norm can result in settlement tightness and hence increased failure to settle, which in turn could reduce the quality of our market.

All Chi-X trades are completely fungible with trades executed on the primary market of listing, with settlement at the domestic CSD.

Practical Implications

Listed in the table below are some examples of stocks traded on Chi-X with the same ISIN and a combination of currencies and markets: