SGX signs new index partner FTSE Russell

SINGAPORE Exchange (SGX) and global index provider FTSE Russell signed an agreement on Thursday to deliver new Asian multi-asset solutions.

They will jointly develop and market multi-asset index derivatives for Asian and emerging markets. These products will be anchored on FTSE Russell's global benchmark indices for fixed income, listed real estate, global equities and currencies.

SGX and FTSE Russell said they would collaborate on both product and platform development, and jointly drive global marketing.

Loh Boon Chye, chief executive officer of SGX, said the exchange is excited to bring its strategic partnership with FTSE Russell to a new level.

"With this expanded agreement with FTSE Russell, we will develop more unique tools to match evolving investor needs. FTSE Russell's leadership in the world of investable multi-asset products and ESG (environmental, social and corporate governance), together with SGX's leading position and unrivalled capabilities in Asian derivatives, will drive even greater impact and value creation for our customers."   

Waqas Samad, CEO of FTSE Russell and group director for information Services at the London Stock Exchange Group - which owns the Russell Indexes, said the partnership will support growing demand across Asia for index-based listed futures and options as well as exchange traded funds (ETFs).

"As a leading provider of investment decision making tools, including the global, multi-asset class FTSE Russell indexes, we are committed to working with our exchange partners around the world in developing the risk management markets that help global investors efficiently manage their investment process. 

"We also look forward to partnering with SGX to develop a range of index-based products to support the increasing need for sustainable investment solutions developed to globally recognised ESG standards, providing investors with further choice, diversification and risk management opportunities for their portfolios." 

ETFs and derivatives based on FTSE Russell indexes are some of the most actively traded and liquid vehicles in the world. The global index family includes well-known benchmarks such as the U.S. large-cap Russell 1000 index, U.S. small-cap Russell 2000 index, Russell Style (Growth & Value) indexes and the FTSE 100, FTSE China 50 and FTSE Emerging index.