In a consultation paper, CESR has called for industry comment on the potential costs of introducing a mandatory electronic trade confirmation requirement for European trading of OTC derivatives.

While maintaining the view that firms should be able to retain the flexibility to customise aspects such as standard valuation, payment structures and payment dates, CESR remains convinced that greater standardisation of OTC derivatives contracts can deliver efficiency benefits to the market.

"In particular, CESR has identified the use of electronic confirmation systems as one measure which could potentially deliver benefits to the market," states the agncy.

In relation to 'exchange trading' of derivatives currently traded OTC, "CESR believes that trading on organised markets could deliver a number of benefits like providing a higher level of transparency, enhancing liquidity, ensuring efficiency and risk reduction and providing an easy access for market participants."

As a preliminary opinion, CESR says it is in favour of "incentivising" the use of organised trading venues, but continues to consider whether mandatory usage is desirable, taking into account the discussions currently taking place on this issue in other jurisdictions and international fora.

As such, CESR is also calling for industry input on which kind of incentives could effectively promote exchange trading.

An open hearing will be organised during the consultation period for interested stakeholders on 11 August. Based on the outcome of the consultation process, CESR will publish its final position as a technical advice to the European Commission.