 The LSE and other exchanges seek to become more efficient |
The London Stock Exchange (LSE) has been discussing a $2bn (�1bn) bid for its Italian counterpart, say insiders quoted by Reuters news agency. Alessandro Pansa, a member of Borsa's board said he "liked" the idea of a deal but was open to other offers.
A day earlier, the LSE said it was in "advanced talks" with Milan's Borsa Italiana, without giving details.
The move comes after a wave of exchange tie-ups and acquisitions aimed at boosting efficiency in the sector.
"The board of London Stock Exchange Group will make a further announcement as appropriate," said the exchange in a statement on Wednesday.
Stock exchanges have been seeking partners in a bid to cut costs and increase business through economies of scale.
Pan-European stock exchange operator Euronext joined the New York Stock Exchange last year and listed in Paris and Wall Street in April.
More recently, US exchange Nasdaq, which was repeatedly thwarted in its bid to buy the LSE, agreed to buy Swedish stock exchange OMX in a recommended $3.7bn (�1.8bn) deal in May.
Any deal between the LSE and Italy could face a barrier from Nasdaq, which owns a 30% stake in the UK exchange.
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