Purpose and objectives

The Deutscher Derivate Verband (DDV, German Derivatives Association) is the industry body which represents the 15 leading issuers of structured securities with a market share of more than 90 percent in Germany. Its work is supported by 18 sponsoring members, amongst which are exchanges and direct banks. Based in Berlin, Frankfurt and Brussels, the DDV has the mandate to elaborate self-regulatory standards such as the Fairness Code which is observed by the issuers with respect to the structuring, issuing, marketing and trading of structured products. Transparency and education of retail investors is at the heart of its mission.

DDV’s members are among the most important certificate issuers in Germany, representing more than 90 percent of the total market. Furthermore, the Association’s work is supported by eighteen sponsoring members, which include the Stuttgart and Frankfurt Exchanges, Baader Bank, the direct banks comdirect bank, Consorsbank, flatexDEGIRO, ING-DiBa, maxblue, S Broker and wallstreet:online, as well as finance portals and other service providers.

DDV’s aim is to improve the general political and regulatory conditions for structured products in Germany and at European level, and to encourage increasing numbers of private investors to choose certificates and warrants. The objectives of DDV therefore include making the products more understandable and transparent, as well as protecting investors.

DDV is an advocate of self-regulation, and it works in conjunction with its members and sponsoring members to set industry standards.