HEX Integrated Markets To Launch An Integrated Derivatives Exchange

As of June 14, 2004, the Finnish and Swedish derivative products will be traded on a common trading platform with single membership, access point, rulebook and order book. This launch of an integrated derivatives exchange and clearinghouse is another step in fulfilling the vision of fully integrating the Nordic and Baltic markets. The integration of derivative markets will generate benefits to members, enhance liquidity and promote trading of Finnish derivatives.

"The integration of derivatives markets will offer access to a large liquidity pool with more than 140 trading members. In the last months our derivatives markets have developed strongly, and I am proud to introduce this fully integrated derivatives exchange and clearinghouse which will further enhance the competitiveness of Nordic derivatives markets," said Jukka Ruuska, President of HEX Integrated Markets.

The integrated derivatives exchange and clearinghouse will be operated by Stockholmsbörsen, which will start offering euro-nominated derivatives based on Finnish equities on June 14. All trading with Finnish derivatives products will be gradually transferred to Stockholmsbörsen by the end of 2004. In order to facilitate a smooth market migration, Helsinki Exchanges will adopt the common CLICK/SECUR trading and clearing system.

The integrated derivative market further offers its members instant and efficient access to other Nordic derivatives markets with common platform, rules and practices through a link co-operation between Stockholmsbörsen, Oslo Börs, Copenhagen Stock Exchange and EDX London. OMHEX's successful partnership with Eurex will remain unchanged, and the Finnish derivatives listed on the Eurex exchange will not be affected by the integration of Nordic derivatives markets.