Virtu Financial launches POSIT block trading on Abu Dhabi exchange
Virtu Financial (NYSE: VIRT) and the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) announced the launch of the POSIT block-trading indications network for equity securities listed on ADX, according to a joint press release dated Sept. 8, 2026.
Virtu is described as the first firm to use ADX's upgraded Negotiated Block Trade facility to complete electronic block trades sourced through the POSIT system. The launch follows recent enhancements ADX made to that facility, giving exchange members greater flexibility to execute large transactions on-platform.
All trades will settle on a T+2 basis through the Abu Dhabi Central Securities Depository, the same settlement cycle used for standard ADX trades. Arqaam Capital, Virtu's regional partner, will provide connectivity, brokerage, and post-trade services for firms that are not direct ADX members.
The companies describe this as the first phase of POSIT facilitating block-trading indications for Middle Eastern and North African equity securities.
"By welcoming Virtu's POSIT technology to ADX, we provide institutions seeking large trades direct access to new liquidity opportunities in our market," said Abdulla Salem Alnuaimi, Group Chief Executive Officer of ADX Group.
Rob Boardman, CEO of Virtu Execution Services EMEA, said the expansion "further enhances the appeal and accessibility of Abu Dhabi's equity capital markets to institutional investors globally."
Sumeet Akewar, Head of Electronic Trading at Arqaam Capital, said the launch "reflects our commitment to advancing the region's electronic trading ecosystem."
