How Does the Default Waterfall of a CCP Protect Its Non-Defaulting Members?
The default waterfall is a pre-defined sequence of financial resources a CCP uses to cover losses from a defaulting member. It typically starts with the defaulter's posted margin, then the CCP's own capital, followed by the mutualized default fund contributions from non-defaulting members, and potentially a further assessment.
This structure protects the market by ensuring losses are absorbed in a controlled, pre-agreed manner.