Intercontinental Exchange Inc. - ICE STOCK NEWS

In February, refinance activity among millennials surged, with refinances accounting for 54% of all loans, up from 46% in January. Younger millennials saw refinances rise to 32%, while older millennials led the trend with 61% of their loans being refinances. Average mortgage rates remained stable at 2.88%, with younger millennials securing slightly lower rates at 2.85%. The data highlights the growing importance of digital solutions in the mortgage process, as noted by ICE Mortgage Technology's president, Joe Tyrrell.

Intercontinental Exchange (NYSE: ICE) reported strong trading volumes for March and Q1 2021, with total average daily volume (ADV) increasing by 30% compared to Q4 2020. The company highlighted growth across various asset classes, particularly in energy, interest rates, and agriculture. Key figures include a 40% increase in Brent ADV and a remarkable 627% rise in SONIA ADV year-over-year. ICE expects non-operating expenses between $51 million to $56 million for Q1. This growth is attributed to enhanced market reliance and the launch of new products, such as ICE Futures Abu Dhabi.

Akamai Technologies has appointed Sharon Y. Bowen to its Board of Directors effective April 2, 2021. Bowen, a distinguished expert in finance and law, has served on the board of Intercontinental Exchange since December 2017 and held positions at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and the Securities Investor Protection Corporation. Her extensive background in corporate governance and strategic alliances is expected to bolster Akamai's leadership amid evolving regulatory conditions. She expressed enthusiasm about contributing to Akamai's mission of securing digital experiences.

Intercontinental Exchange (NYSE:ICE) announced the launch of ICE Futures Abu Dhabi (IFAD) and Murban Crude Oil futures, marking significant innovation in trading. On its first trading day, a total of 8,854 lots were traded, including 6,344 Murban futures contracts. The new financial instruments aim to provide extensive trading options for market participants. IFAD operates 24 hours on Mondays and 22 hours from Tuesday to Friday, with participation from firms across multiple countries. The trading infrastructure is backed by clearing services at ICE Clear Europe, enhancing capital efficiency.

Intercontinental Exchange (NYSE:ICE) has launched ICE Futures Abu Dhabi (IFAD) and the world's first Murban Crude Oil futures contract, in partnership with ADNOC and nine major energy traders. The new contracts facilitate trading and hedging of Murban crude, recognized for its chemical quality and production stability. IFAD operates 24/7 on Mondays and 22 hours on weekdays, serving global investors. This launch signals a strategic milestone for the UAE in the global energy market, enhancing ADNOC's role and underscoring its economic ambitions.

Intercontinental Exchange (NYSE:ICE) announced the approval of 24 Exchange Members, including 18 Clearing Members, to trade on its new exchange, ICE Futures Abu Dhabi (IFAD). The launch is set for March 29, 2021, featuring the ICE Murban Crude Oil Futures alongside 18 related cash settled derivatives. Trades will be cleared by ICE Clear Europe and available for global investors, including those from the UAE, US, and Asia-Pacific. This initiative aims to enhance access and liquidity in energy markets and is supported by significant interest from major energy traders.

Intercontinental Exchange (NYSE:ICE) announced the launch of LNG freight futures contracts based on Spark Commodities’ price assessments, which began trading on March 22. Initial trading included 30 lots of Spark30S Atlantic and Spark25S Pacific contracts, with participation from major industry players like Total and Glencore. These contracts aim to help market participants hedge shipping capacity and manage freight risks amid high price volatility. Monthly contracts from April 2021 to December 2023 are available, enhancing capital efficiency in managing global gas price risks.

Intercontinental Exchange (NYSE: ICE) announced its 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders will be held virtually on May 14, 2021, at 8:30 a.m. ET, due to COVID-19 precautions. Stockholders of record by March 16, 2021, can participate, vote, and submit questions. Questions can be submitted in advance starting April 30, 2021. Detailed participation instructions will be provided in the proxy statement, which will be filed with the SEC. A live audio webcast will be available on the investor relations website.