Post-trading operations encompass all activities occurring after a trade is executed, ensuring the safe and secure transfer of ownership and payment. These activities include clearing, which verifies and matches trades, and settlement, where securities and cash are transferred between parties. Additionally, post-trade operations involve custody, where assets are held and managed, and asset servicing, which handles various services related to those assets.

Post-trade activities are crucial for maintaining market integrity and ensuring the smooth functioning of financial markets. They also provide a framework for regulatory reporting and governance, contributing to the overall stability of the financial system. These operations are facilitated by financial market infrastructures like Central Counterparties (CCPs), Clearing Houses, and Central Securities Depositories (CSDs).

In essence, post-trading operations are the backbone of financial transactions, ensuring that trades are completed and all obligations are met. They are essential for a robust and reliable financial system.