Brussels, 30/11/2010 (Agence Europe) - The European Commission is holding a consultation until the end of January 2011 on ways of increasing transparency and the comparability of packaged retail investment products (PRIPs) (EUROPE9893). In an effort to enable it to present its legislative proposals in 2011, input from the stakeholders is requested in three broad areas: the scope of the initiative, the broad legislative approach to be followed, and the content of a possible regime for product disclosure. Based on a common opinion from three European and national regulatory committees (CESR, Committee of European Banking Supervisors and CEIOPS), the Commission is proposing a generic definition of this kind of product, which includes an element of uncertainty relating to market exposure and a reference to conditions issued by the distributor. Investment funds, structured products and derivatives will be included. On the other hand, non-structured deposits and financial protection products will not be included. Amendments to European rules framing the distribution of PRIPs, will be introduced as part of the revision of the “Markets in Financial Instruments” directive (2004/39/EC) and the directive on “Insurance Mediation” (see other article). (M.B./transl.fl)