NQLX To De-list Security Futures Products - Retains Designated Contract Market Status

NQLX announces that it will suspend trading in all of its security futures products in an orderly fashion and consistent with its market obligations. The Exchange will aim to suspend trading following the expiry of the December 2004 contracts on December 17, 2004. The Exchange will continue to retain its Designated Contract Market (DCM) status.

Robert Fitzsimmons, NQLX CEO, said, “We will be delisting security futures products because it is no longer commercially viable to continue to trade these contracts. NQLX will consult with its members, customers and regulators on the orderly management of existing open interest. A plan to wind down security futures open interest will be announced shortly.”

Hugh Freedberg, NQLX Chairman and Euronext.liffe Chief Executive, said, “NQLX will retain its status as a Designated Contract Market (DCM) in anticipation of listing other contracts in the future. We remain fully committed to meeting the needs of US customers. Euronext.liffe’s core business in the United States is flourishing. Trading this year by US customers has increased by more than 50% over last year. Through LIFFE CONNECT®, we are able to offer fast and efficient trading of a wide range of products on a democratic electronic market.”