Plain-Vanilla

plain-vanilla

Of or relating to the uncomplicated version of a particular type of security. For example, a plain-vanilla derivative is typically exchange-traded and void of bells and whistles. Likewise, a plain-vanilla bond is not convertible and cannot be called.

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Plain-Vanilla

A fixed-to-floating interest rate swap. The two legs of the swap are a fixed interest rate, say 3.5%, and a floating interest rate, say LIBOR + 0.5%. In such a swap, the only things traded are the two interest rates, which are calculated over a notional value. Each party pays the other at set intervals over the life of the swap. For example, one party may agree to pay the other a 3.5% interest rate calculated over a notional value of $1 million, while the second party may agree to pay LIBOR + 0.5% over the same notional value. See also: Swap.