UK-based dealer broker ICAP has hired Jan de Smedt, formerly of S&P Dow Jones Indices, to fill the newly created role of global head of indices.
De Smedt is tasked with launching new indices linked to exchange-traded funds (ETFs), mutual funds and derivatives products. The firm recently launched four indices and has three more close to launch, according to a spokesperson.
Mark Beeston, chief executive of portfolio risk services, says the company has positioned its index business “to capitalise on forthcoming market and regulatory developments”. These changes include an expected rise in demand for ETFs, says a spokesperson.
Previously, De Smedt was senior director licensing and sales in the client coverage group for S&P Dow Jones Indices in London.
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