Investec Bank PLC Launches ZebrA-X: a New Electronic Trading Platform

Facilitates low-touch equity trading, helping mid-market clients execute at scale with limited signalling 

Investec Bank plc (Investec), a leading international financial services provider, today announces the launch of its new electronic trading platform, ZebrA-X. This innovative platform is designed to create a distinct and high value offering in the market and meet the evolving needs of clients seeking rapid and efficient execution in the rapidly evolving electronic trading landscape.    

Dominic Lowres, Head of Electronic Trading and Execution Strategy, commented:  

“We are delighted to provide our clients with a state-of-the-art platform that enhances their trading experience. The ZebrA-X dark algorithm, along with Zebra dark lit strategies, Zebra Block & the wheel solution, as well as benchmark strategies, allow them to execute trades efficiently, with a large amount of configuration choices. We anticipate a diverse stream of unique flows into ZebrA-X which will benefit all types of clients who will benefit from deep mid-price resident liquidity. We believe this approach delivers long-term value to clients and will help enhance overall levels of execution quality.”  

Clive Murray, Head of Equities, added:   

“Bespoke execution consultancy is at the heart of our model, and ZebrA-X not only complements our existing high-touch trading solutions but also provides in-depth execution analysis that enhances our relationships with clients, helping to deliver an out of the ordinary level of service to them.”  

ZebrA-X will provide clients with access to a comprehensive suite of benchmark, liquidity-seeking algorithms, underpinned by Investec’s consultative execution team, connecting with a range of liquidity providers and venues. 

The optimised solution is designed to facilitate the efficient execution of block trades and offers the ability to internalise institutional and retail order flow, helping to reduce pre- and post-trade signalling. 

Investec already captures over 5.6% of flows in the FTSE 250, showcasing its strong position in the UK market. Its market expertise in both the UK and South Africa means that it can trade in 64 markets from these two locations.   

The introduction of ZebrA-X follows Investec’s recent expansion into electronic trading, which includes the establishment of a dedicated electronic equity trading desk. This new desk, headed by Dominic Lowres and supported by Matthew West, aims to cater to the growing demand for automated trading solutions, particularly in light of the increasing percentage of flows coming from passive investments.