The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published a new question and answer document (ESMA/2016/590) on the application of MiFID to the marketing and sale of financial contracts for difference (CFDs) and other speculative products to retail clients.

ESMA explains that, although CFDs and other speculative products (such as binary options and rolling spot forex) are complex products, they are widely advertised to the retail mass market by a number of firms, often through online platforms. The Q&A document is designed to promote common supervisory approaches and practices in the application of MiFID and its implementing measures to key aspects that are relevant when CFDs and other speculative products are sold to retail clients. Although they are targeted at competent authorities, the answers are also intended to help firms by providing clarity on MiFID requirements.

ESMA has also added that, while the Q&A refer to MiFID, the principles and requirements underpinning the content of the document will remain unchanged once MiFID II enters into application.