The move expands the RTS presence in the Middle East and further strengthens its leadership position in electronic trading software, with thousands of user connections to more than 85 exchanges and liquidity pools throughout the world.

DGCX was the first international commodities derivatives market in the Middle East region, initiating trading in November 2005. The electronic exchange lists futures on a range of products, including precious metals, currencies and fuel oil.

"RTS is very pleased to add the DGCX to our growing offering of Middle Eastern market access. In this region and elsewhere, we are uniquely positioned as the technology provider of choice for those seeking a powerful combination of high-speed fiber connectivity to multiple venues across the globe, full hosting services with true direct market access and versatile functionality," said Steffen Gemuenden, Co-CEO of RTS.

"We look forward to welcoming RTS' global customer base to our exchange, as the connectivity with the firm further expands our distribution and enhances the liquidity of our products," said Mr. Colin Griffith, Chairman of DGCX. "Our markets bridge the time zone gap between Europe, Asia and North America, offering an attractive trading opportunity to customers across the globe."

Gemuenden added: "Customers are increasingly turning to our comprehensive algorithmic trading capabilities through the RTD Tango software - particularly in the energy and commodity markets. Traders interested in statistical arbitrage and spread opportunities are taking advantage of RTD Tango's fast programming and execution capabilities to give themselves a competitive edge."