Under the arrangement, AFA's IMPACT Pro, a Web-based integrated order processing system (IOP) for buy-side clients including hedge funds, will be integrated with BRASS Broker Direct U2 via the Broker Direct U2 FIX API (application programming interface). The API supports the full range of native and synthesized order types and smart agents provided through Broker Direct U2. Sell-side firms will be able to offer the sponsored solution to their buy-side clients and to leverage their existing Broker Direct U2 infrastructure to receive order flow.

"This integration is a good example of our efforts to provide brokers with tools to support their electronic client relationships," said Mark Clark, executive vice president, direct market access for SunGard's BRASS business unit. "The combined solution provides sponsoring sell-side firms with a single, broker-neutral, low-cost solution for targeting hedge funds."

Nilesh Nanavati, president of AFA, commented, "A combined offering of IMPACT Pro and Broker Direct U2 will allow us to help BRASS customers grow their respective businesses by helping them to address the needs of their institutional clients in a seamless manner."