DSB to Overhaul OTC Derivative User Model Following Industry Consultation
By Dominic Sow · 20 July 2026

Quick Summary
The Derivatives Service Bureau (DSB) is launching a holistic user model review to ensure fair cost recovery allocation across the OTC derivatives ecosystem. Following its 2026 Industry Consultation, the DSB will establish new engagement forums for distributors and intermediaries to refine UPI and OTC ISIN service delivery.
How is the DSB Improving Cost Recovery Fairness?
The Derivatives Service Bureau is addressing the fact that the majority of its 4,000+ users currently access data free of charge. By conducting a holistic review of its user model, the DSB aims to achieve a fairer cost distribution across the industry. This evidence-based approach ensures that the 500 institutions relying on DSB data contribute equitably to the cost-recovery utility model.
- Fee tiering for the Distributor user type is under active consideration.
- Broadening the Distributor definition to include derived and validation use cases.
- Ensuring transparency and interoperability through standardized ISO data.
What Does the New Engagement Model Mean for Third-Party Providers?
Third-party providers, including Distributors and Intermediaries, will now have a dedicated engagement forum to reflect their distinct role in the market. This discovery-led approach allows the DSB to deepen its understanding of how different stakeholders utilize OTC ISIN and UPI data. The goal is to create clearer boundaries between user types while maintaining the efficiency of the DSB's zero-touch technology platform.
What are the Key Deadlines for Regulatory Compliance?
Market participants must prepare for significant updates to the DSB Main Terms and Policies. The DSB has outlined a clear roadmap for regulatory reporting obligations and policy implementation to ensure adequate lead time for the industry. This timeline is critical for firms managing MiFID II transparency and market abuse reporting.
- August 4-27, 2026: Consultation on proposed amendments to Main Terms.
- September 24, 2026: Publication of the final 2027 Main Terms.
- January 1, 2027: New policies and user models go into effect.
FF NEWS TAKE:
The Derivatives Service Bureau is making a necessary, albeit complex, move toward a more sustainable financial model. By shifting away from a system where most users pay nothing, the DSB is ensuring the long-term viability of the global golden source for OTC derivatives. This move definitely moves the needle by forcing a more mature conversation around the value of standardized regulatory data and the costs of maintaining critical market infrastructure.
Companies in this story: Derivatives Service Bureau
People in this story: Emma Kalliomaki