What is ISDA negotiation?

ISDA negotiation refers to the process of drafting and agreeing upon the terms of an ISDA Master Agreement between two parties, typically financial institutions or corporates, who wish to enter into over-the-counter derivatives transactions. The ISDA (International Swaps and Derivatives Association) Master Agreement is a standardized contract that outlines the legal framework for these trades. Negotiation involves customizing certain terms, such as credit support, netting provisions, and termination events, to address the specific risk appetites and regulatory requirements of both parties. Effective ISDA negotiation is crucial for managing legal, credit, and operational risks in derivatives trading.