The International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) is delaying some of its planned work in 2020 to devote its resources to the challenges stemming from the Covid-19 outbreak.
The organization is shifting attention to areas of finance that are most exposed to the market conditions that have developed in recent weeks, including higher volatility, limited liquidity and the potential for pro-cyclicality.
“These efforts include examining investment funds, as well as margin and other risk management aspects of central clearing for financial derivatives and other securities,” IOSCO said in a statement.
In order to focus on these areas, IOSCO is delaying existing work on certain projects.
The affected initiatives include its planned analysis of the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning by asset managers and investment firms, work on the impact of the growth of passive investing, and work on market data, indexes and outsourcing.
Other initiatives that are close to completion will continue, the organization said.
Additionally, IOSCO will also examine “any specific investor protection issues, market integrity or conduct risks that may arise” due to the Covid-19 crisis.
The group has also postponed its annual meeting and policy conference, which was scheduled for June 8-10 in Abu Dhabi.
IOSCO said it’s considering possible makeup dates in the fourth quarter.