CUSIP
Pronunciation: KYOO-sip
Also written as: CUSIP — Committee on Uniform Security Identification Procedures
A nine-character alphanumeric identifier assigned to North American securities, used universally in transfer agent and clearing records to identify a specific issue.
Full Definition
CUSIP stands for Committee on Uniform Security Identification Procedures. The CUSIP number is a nine-character identifier—comprising six alphanumeric characters identifying the issuer, two characters identifying the specific issue, and a single check digit—assigned to stocks, bonds, and other securities traded in the United States and Canada. Transfer agents use CUSIPs to track positions, process transfers, and reconcile share counts. Editors must render CUSIP in all capitals when used as a noun or modifier (e.g., 'the CUSIP number') and should not conflate it with ISIN, which is the international equivalent.
Usage
Usage note: Always styled in all capitals. The full form ('Committee on Uniform Security Identification Procedures') is rarely spelled out in industry documents; editors should confirm whether the client style guide requires expansion on first use.
In Context
- "Please provide the CUSIP number for each class of shares to be registered on the transfer books." — Transfer agent instruction letter
- "The new CUSIP assigned to the post-merger entity will differ from those of both predecessor companies." — Merger proxy / information statement