Reuters DataScope Derivatives Pricing Service has been launched in response to customer demand as part of Reuters strategy to speed up the process of valuing complex securities.

Using the service customers can request a price for bespoke transactions, with completely transparent Reuters pricing and methodology behind each valuation. The service complements Reuters DataScope Select, which already provides prices for instruments that have a broader market adoption. This means Reuters now provides valuations for over 1.1 million hard-to-value financial instruments.

The need for an independent, trusted source to price derivatives has grown to record levels as the search for above average investment gains intensifies in particularly volatile market conditions. The importance of complete transparency, both in pricing and methodology, accuracy and speed in valuations has become even more of a priority following recent write-downs related to US sub-prime mortgage debt exposure.

Clients also increasingly need to understand how valuations are calculated and it is this key aspects that Reuters DataScope Derivatives Pricing Service delivers to existing customers, as well as new ones, who require pricing for instruments being developed and traded on a day to day basis.

Tim Rice, Global Head of Reuters Pricing and Reference Data said: "Many of our clients trade financial instruments for which establishing the correct market price can be difficult. This service allows them to tap into the independence and integrity of Reuters to give a custom made guide to the value of securities they hold."

"The speed and flexibility available via Reuters DataScope Derivatives Pricing Service coupled with the depth and breadth of Reuters coverage is key for our clients operating in today's volatile and heavily regulated market."