MiFID (short for the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive) provides a uniform legal framework for the provision of services by investment firms and credit institutions within the European Union.
The prime objective of MiFID is to guarantee adequate protection of investors, promote fair competition in the financial sector and ensure transparency of the operations of banks and investment firms on the EU markets in financial instruments. The requirements of MiFID apply to the various financial instruments, such as shares, bonds, money market instruments, derivatives, and investment fund units. They also pertain to investment services, including discretionary management of portfolios comprising one or more securities, investment advice and custody services.