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Valoren Number

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Demystifying Valoren Numbers: A Guide to Financial Instrument Identification

Have you ever come across the term "Valoren Number" and wondered what it means? In the realm of finance, especially in Switzerland, Valoren Numbers play a crucial role in identifying financial instruments. Let's delve deeper into the world of Valoren Numbers to understand their significance and how they function.

Understanding Valoren Numbers

A Valoren Number serves as a unique identification code assigned to financial instruments, akin to CUSIP numbers used in Canada and the U.S. Typically comprising six to nine digits, these numbers carry no inherent meaning regarding the instrument itself. Instead, they act as secure identifiers for market data firms and financial institutions across Europe.

The Mechanism Behind Valoren Numbers

When a new Valoren Number is required, it's simply allocated from the existing list without any specific significance attached to the number itself. Unlike ISINs or CUSIPs, Valoren Numbers do not embed any data within them. These numbers are issued by SIX Financial Information, a subsidiary of SIX Group, a multinational financial data vendor headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland.

Evolution of SIX Financial Information

Originally known as Telekurs, SIX Financial Information underwent significant restructuring and expansion over the years. With a global presence and a vast database comprising structured data on over 20 million financial instruments, SIX Financial Information stands as a cornerstone in the financial information landscape.

Applications of Valoren Numbers

Valoren Numbers serve various purposes in identifying financial instruments globally. Whether it's in conjunction with Market Identifier Codes (MICs) for unique instrument identification or in transaction reporting and position keeping, these numbers play a pivotal role in financial operations. In Switzerland and Liechtenstein, Valoren Numbers serve as the primary identifier within the Swiss Value Chain, utilized by financial institutions far and wide.

Key Takeaways

  • Valoren Numbers are unique identification codes assigned to financial instruments in Switzerland.
  • They serve as secure identifiers for market data firms and financial institutions across Europe.
  • Issued by SIX Financial Information, these numbers carry no intrinsic meaning and are allocated sequentially.
  • Valoren Numbers play a vital role in global financial operations, facilitating unique instrument identification and transaction reporting.