Valoren number

The valoren number is a code which identifies listed securities and financial instruments in Switzerland, and serves a similar purpose to CUSIP or WKN in the North American or German markets respectively. The valoren number is incorporated in the Swiss ISIN number.

Allocation methodology

The valoren number is a numeric code that intrinsically has no meaning. When a new number is needed, the next one from the list is simply allocated. An instrument's number indicates nothing about the instrument itself.

Uses

The valoren number can be used for a number of purposes in identifying a financial instrument:

• Globally a valoren number is allocated for any type of financial instrument which meets the allocation rules.^[1] It can be used in conjunction with the Market Identifier Code (MIC) and the currency code to identify a traded instrument. It can be used in transaction reporting and for position keeping.
• In Switzerland and Liechtenstein the valoren number is the main identifier in the Swiss Value Chain^[2] and is used as the main identifier by financial institutions throughout the region and beyond.
• Valoren numbers for derivatives may be reused after the derivative expires.

Etymology

The word Valor is a Swiss German banking term for a "security", including coins and paper money. In Switzerland, when referring to the code, it is always referred to as the Valorennummer, i.e. security number.^[3] The plural of Valor in Swiss German is Valoren.

In the English speaking world, the words "valor" and "valoren" are sometimes used interchangeably.^[4]

Issuing authority

The valoren number is issued by SIX Financial Information.

See also

• International Securities Identifying Number (ISIN, defined in ISO 6166)
• ISO 10383
• ISO 10962
• NSIN
• Ticker symbol
• Option symbol
• SEDOL