Aquis Exchange has named Thomas Downes as its new head of markets, as part of the firm’s continued expansion of its markets division.
London-based Downes brings extensive electronic trading experience to his new role, and is set to lead the firm’s strategy and operations, as well as driving the growth of Aquis’ pan-European multilateral trading facility (MTF).
Speaking to his new appointment, Downes said: “Following its recent acquisition by SIX, the Aquis team are highly motivated for growth across all of its business divisions.
“There are great opportunities ahead, and I am excited to join the strong team behind Aquis’ MTF as we continue to challenge and drive innovation, grow our presence in European trading, and deliver meaningful value to clients and investors.”
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He joins from fintech IOX Partners, where he worked as a managing partner for almost three years.
Previously in his career, Downes has held various roles covering liquidity, sales, strategy and execution at ITG for 14 years, before joining Virtu Financial as head of electronic trading sales and strategy for EMEA and executive committee member after the firm acquired ITG in March 2019.
Before this, he worked at Merrill Lynch for more than six years, in various senior and product management positions.
Downes’ appointment follows the hire of Laetitia Visconti in February 2025, who joined Aquis in a newly created role as head of market structure after almost 14 years in various equity-related roles at Barclays.