Primary Securities Markets

IFC Discussion Paper No. 39.During the period 1980-95, the level of activity increased dramatically for funds raised domestically via issues of debt and equity securities in public capital markets in 32 countries. There were also substantial differences in the level of activity across markets and countries. This paper examines aggregate domestic primary capital market activity in a cross section of countries, including 24 emerging markets. It defines exactly how important a role financial markets have played in raising capital for investment.In this pioneering work, the authors compile aggregate data on primary market activity for a recent period of time, which allows them to quantify the size of the markets and how they have evolved over time. Through their analysis, the authors document the rapidly increasing importance of primary capital markets in many developing countries, where, relative to GDP, these markets now source as much private capital as their developed country counterpart.

Capital Markets Handbook, 3rd Edition is the definitive desk reference for capital market professionals and a complete resource for anyone working in the financial markets field. This single volume reference is user-friendly and an ideal reference for those who are new to capital markets as well as for those who already have had an introduction to this dynamic field. Written by seasoned professionals in association with the SIA, Capital Markets Handbook covers the latest developments in securities legislation, and all aspects of documentation, underwriting, pricing, distribution, settlement, immediate aftermarket trading of new issues, information, a glossary, a bibliography, and appendices containing the full text of the primary statutes and regulations. Capital Markets Handbook, 3rd Edition includes the following new topics: New Issue Marketing Process Rule 155 - Limited Safe Harbors from Integration Depositary Receipts Guidelines for Initiating Stabilization Registered Direct Offerings, Regulation D Offerings, and Regulation S Offerings Settlement with Selected Dealers Antecedents of Present Day Corporate Structure, Financing, and Accounting Techniques New Appendix: SIA Best Practices for Research

Understanding Financial Accounts seeks to show how a range of questions on financial developments can be answered with the framework of financial accounts and balance sheets, by providing non-technical explanations illustrated with practical examples.

In the past 10 years a growing number of countries have established or began establishing a primary dealer system. This paper discusses the role of primary dealers, as well as theoretical, operational, and technical issues related to the establishment of a primary dealer system, in the overall management of public debt for countries that may be considering taking this step. Drawing on a 2001 survey of country practices, the paper discusses the rationale, costs and benefits, and key prerequisites, as well as selection criteria, obligations, and privileges of a primary dealer system. It also attempts to determine the conditions under which a primary dealer system would make a positive contribution to the functioning and development of the government securities market.