What is ISIN?

ISIN is the International Securities Identification Number, a 12-digit alphanumeric code that can be issued for shares, bonds, options, derivatives and futures.

For example, the Apple Inc. ISIN is us0378331005.

The ISIN code is a unique globally recognized security identification number.

Where have you heard about its release?

American Financial Services Corporation standard & Poor's the right to issue ISIN. In 2009, they were formally sued by the European Commission for unfair pricing after charging licence fees to European financial firms.

What you need to know about the release...

The ISIN code, like a serial number, is regulated by the International Standards Organization (ISO), but is issued by the National coding Agency (NNA) of the country in which the security is issued. For example, the UK ISIN code is published by the London Stock Exchange.

The structure of the ISIN follows the regulations of ISO 6166:

• Two letter characters - representing the issuing company
• Nine alphanumeric characters - National Securities Identification Code
• A digital verification code

ISIN was originally established in 1981, but it was not recognized until the G30 countries recommend in 1989, and was subsequently recognized by the International Standards Organization (ISO) and adopted ISO 6166.

If the country has established a national coding plan, ISIN can be included. In 2004, the EU included ISIN as an authorized tool identifier, making it a mandatory part of some regulatory reports.