New German Law to Ease Market Access for Foreign Market Makers, Boosting Eurex

Release date: Feb 16, 2026

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Eurex

  • New German law exempts non-EU market makers from licensing rules.
  • Reform is set to increase liquidity and competition on Eurex.
  • The change follows long-standing Eurex efforts to lower market access barriers.

Eurex, Europe's leading derivatives exchange, today highlights a significant enhancement of access to its markets following the enactment of Germany's Financial Centre Promotion Act ("Standortfördergesetz"). The new legislation refines the regulatory framework applicable to third country Regulatory Market-Makers (RMMs), a move that will reduce entry barriers, boost international participation, and increase liquidity in the European derivatives market.

Effective immediately, the legislation exempts RMMs based outside the European Union from the previous requirement to establish a physical entity or seek an individual exemption in Germany. This reform streamlines the process for providing liquidity on German-regulated exchanges like Eurex, eliminating what was a significant operational and financial hurdle for many global firms. 

The new framework is set to enhance market efficiency, increase competition, and reduce bureaucracy. The reform addresses barriers that Eurex, as part of Deutsche Börse Group, has consistently worked with market participants and policymakers to highlight as crucial for strengthening Germany's position as a leading global financial hub and ensuring a level playing field with other major European jurisdictions.

Robbert Booij, CEO of Eurex: "This is a landmark development that directly reflects our long-term strategy of lowering access barriers and boosting liquidity. By removing a significant regulatory hurdle, we are opening the door for additional liquidity providers to access our exchange. This is not just a win for Eurex, but for all market participants who will benefit from more efficient and competitive markets."

This legislative enhancement is a key component of Eurex's broader commitment to market accessibility. It complements established initiatives such as the Sponsored Access model and comprehensive liquidity provider programs, all designed to foster global participation and improve market efficiency. Eurex is now actively engaging with firms in the UK, Switzerland, North America, and Asia to ensure they can swiftly capitalize on this new opportunity to access Europe's leading derivatives markets.


About Eurex
Eurex is the leading European derivatives exchange and – with Eurex Clearing – one of the leading central counterparties globally. As architects of trusted markets characterized by market liquidity, efficiency, and integrity, we provide our customers with innovative solutions to seamlessly manage risk. 


Media contacts
Irmgard Thiessen
+49 (69) 211 1 59 11
irmgard.thiessen@deutsche-boerse.com

Fabian Vichtl   
+49 69 211-1 65 95   
fabian.vichtl@deutsche-boerse.com

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Editorial note: We kindly provide you with a printable photo of Robbert Booij.