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What Is “Default Waterfall” in a Clearing House?

The default waterfall is the pre-defined, sequential order in which a CCP uses financial resources to cover losses resulting from a clearing member's default. It typically starts with the defaulter's margin, then the CCP's own capital, followed by the mutualized guaranty fund contributions from non-defaulting members.

This structured approach ensures an orderly absorption of losses.

What Happens during a Clearing Member Default Event at a CCP?
What Is the “Waterfall” Structure of a CCP’s Financial Resources?
What Is the Risk to the Clearing House If a Member Fails to Pay Variation Margin?
What Is a ‘Default Waterfall’ in the Context of a CCP?