ESM breaks new ground with zero coupon benchmark

The European Stability Mechanism took a novel approach to the sale of its shortest dated bond to date on Tuesday, printing a two year deal with what is understood to be the first ever 0% coupon on a benchmark from a supranational or agency. Agence Française de Développement is set to mimic the ESM’s tenor on Wednesday, after mandating banks for a long two year on Tuesday afternoon.