Aquis Exchange PLC (AIM:AQX) has achieved a significant milestone: As of 27 November, the Aquis Stock Exchange has become the first recognised investment exchange (RIE) to operate a cloud-based matching engine, utilising Amazon Web Services (AWS).
"This latest development further highlights the focus on innovation within the group and represents an additional step in the execution of the Aquis Technologies strategy," said chief executive Alasdair Haynes.
"The cloud-based matching engine enables the business to deliver transformation across the exchange space globally through the application of its cutting-edge, institutional-grade technology."
Specifically, the transition to AWS offers several advantages. It enhances scalability, allowing the exchange to adjust capacity as needed.
It also increases resilience, providing robust infrastructure to manage trading volume spikes and ensuring reliable backup and failsafe mechanisms.
Additionally, the cloud-based system offers greater flexibility, enabling a more dynamic response to unforeseen demand requirements.
This shift is also expected to lead to cost efficiency, reducing expenses related to physical infrastructure, staffing and energy usage.
Moreover, it should significantly reduce the environmental footprint of the exchange by decreasing data centre energy consumption.
"Aquis has been a trailblazer in cloud deployment of exchange technology since 2020 when we first completed a proof of concept with AWS and the Singapore Exchange," said Adrian Ip, managing director, Aquis Technologies.
"Since then, we have provided full cloud and hybrid solutions for several clients, as well as launching Aquis Equinox - the world's first 24/7 matching engine.
"It is a natural progression to look at the ways in which cloud technology can benefit our own exchanges, and it's great to see Aquis Stock Exchange pave the way for other recognised investment exchanges."