The Handbook on Securities Statistics is the first publication of its kind to focus exclusively on securities statistics. It has been prepared jointly by the BIS, the ECB, and the IMF in response to a request from the WGSD to develop methodological standards for securities statistics and to improve information on securities markets.
The Handbook provides a conceptual framework for securities statistics, including classifications for different possible breakdowns. It also provides high-level and detailed presentation tables that assist in the compilation and dissemination of securities statistics. The current version of the Handbook is based on the 2008 System of National Accounts and the Balance of Payments and International Investment Position Manual, sixth edition (BPM6). It goes partly beyond these standards by elaborating on additional breakdowns on issues and holdings of debt and equity securities. Special attention is also paid to valuation and accounting rules, as well as to specific operations related to debt and equity securities.
The preparation of the Handbookwas supported by a Review Group for the Handbook on Securities Statistics, consisting of officials from national central banks and relevant statistical agencies, as well as from international organizations with an active interest and expertise in debt securities statistics. Members of the review group commented on drafts of the Handbook and actively participated in review group meetings held during 28-29 October 2008 in Basel, 15-16 March 2010 in Frankfurt, and 12-13 October 2011 in Washington, D.C. In addition to the comments of the Review Group, drafts of the Handbook benefitted from worldwide comments from experts.