The SEC set up its quantitative analytics unit last year to help it counter the new threats posed by high-frequency traders and dark pools.

Staffed by mathematics, physics and computer science PhDs, the division gathers and checks data to help identify foul play and risks.

The FBI, which investigates market abuse, has begun drawing on the unit's expertise to help it keep pace with the changing, computer-driven landscape, says the FT.

FBI joins SEC in computer trading probe - FT (sub)