VBM operations

At VBM, we serve and support issuers and investors with secure, electronic registration of securities, whether shares, bonds, bills or unit certificates, and whether or not the securities are listed on a stock exchange. We focus on efficient and secure processes. Electronic registration of securities with the Central Securities Depository of Iceland provides legal confirmation of ownership and associated rights. This enhances investor security and supports the professional handling of financial instruments.

Electronic securities registration

The Icelandic Securities Depository provides issuers and investors with electronic registration of all securities (shares, bonds, bills and units), including securities not listed on an exchange. VBM operates a securities settlement system connected to the Central Bank of Iceland, Arion Bank, Íslandsbanki and Landsbankinn. VBM is owned by Icelandic pension funds and banks.

Benefits of registering with VBM

Registering your securities with VBM gives you clear, legally valid confirmation of ownership and rights. As an investor, you can view your assets and all transactions directly in your online banking and through the tax authorities—all in one place. Registration enhances security and supports professional, transparent securities trading. The process is simple and secure, and takes place within a formal framework.


The shareholder register is always up to date with the latest transactions, and our system enables all major corporate actions to be carried out securely and efficiently.

VBM licensed in the EEA

The Association of Global Custodians Questionnaire 2023-2024

Verðbréfamiðstöð Íslands (VBM) operates under Act No. 7/2020 and is licensed to operate throughout the European Economic Area (EEA). The EEA-wide licence creates various opportunities for both VBM and the Icelandic market. We aim to connect with other central securities depositories in Europe, which will enable us to:                                                                     

  • Improve foreign investors’ access to the Icelandic securities market.
  • Make it easier for Icelanders to trade securities issued within the EEA.

These connections strengthen Iceland's position internationally and make financial transactions more flexible and accessible.

Organisation chart

Each year, VBM submits a questionnaire on deposit information to the Association of Global Custodians. The Association of Global Custodians is a group of 12 financial institutions that provide securities custody and asset servicing to institutional investors operating across borders worldwide.


Download the AGC questionnaire

Download VBM’s remuneration policy here

VBM Remuneration Policy (pdf)


The VBM Board Rules of Procedure are available here

VBM Board Rules of Procedure (pdf)


Download the VBM Annual Accounts here

VBM Annual Accounts 2023 (pdf)