Foreign exchange and OTC derivatives markets turnover survey - 2013

We carry out a survey on the turnover in the markets for foreign exchange and over-the-counter (OTC) interest rate derivatives every three years. It forms part of a global survey carried out by central banks throughout the world, coordinated by the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) Opens in a new window.

The first survey, conducted in 1986, covered turnover in the traditional foreign exchange markets – spot, outright forwards and foreign exchange swaps. In 1995, coverage was expanded to include the over-the-counter (OTC) currency and interest rate derivatives markets. The survey records the turnover of participants in these markets (banks and securities houses) during April in each reporting year.

The survey is aimed at gathering comprehensive and internationally consistent information on the size and structure of the global foreign exchange and OTC derivative markets. This increases market transparency, helping central banks, other authorities and participants to monitor patterns of activity in the global financial system. The main publications relating to the two most recent surveys are listed below (previous results can be found on the National Archives). The BIS website has links to results published by other central banks.