FORTIS will connect to all Asian markets via GL NET, GL TRADE's dedicated order routing and data feed network, which provides access to 120 electronic equities and derivatives markets worldwide including more than 20 in the Asia Pacific region. Extending to Asian markets will allow Fortis to offer global access to financial markets worldwide.

Paul Hilgers, Director Sales and Account Management Asia Pacific for Merchant Banking brokerage, clearing and custody entity comments: "Over the past few years we have become one of the major forces in worldwide servicing and clearing all types of clients. Joining GL NET is part of our plan to grow our electronic brokerage and routing business around the globe. With memberships to over 40 exchanges worldwide, our credit rating of AA- (S&P) and our extensive offerings form part of our strategy to be a top 5 clearers globally."

"We are pleased that FORTIS relies on GL TRADE to enable its Asian clients to have access to European and US markets and vice versa, comments Franck Peltier, GL TRADE Managing Director NEA-SEA. This deal is the logical evolution of a long term partnership."