Integration, regulation, and policy of securities market infrastructures in the euro area

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the state of integration of securities market infrastructure in Europe.Design/methodology/approachGiven the lack of quantitative and price‐based measures, this paper adopts a rather qualitative approach to evaluating the degree and evolution of integration in the securities market infrastructure within Europe. Future challenges, policy options for regulation and market design are discussed.FindingsDespite its single currency, the euro area securities infrastructure remains highly fragmented due to cross‐border differences in tax regimes, procedures, laws, and vested interests. Cost savings and increased efficiency can be expected from further integration.Originality/valueThis is the only paper which provides a comprehensive and comparative analysis of the current level of integration of the securities infrastructure in the euro area and its implications for regulation and market policy.