First Derivatives in talks to buy Cognotec

Newry-based First Derivatives said today it has entered an exclusivity agreement with Kieran Wallace of KPMG, the appointed receiver…

Newry-based First Derivatives said today it has entered an exclusivity agreement with Kieran Wallace of KPMG, the appointed receiver of Cognotec Holdings to acquire the troubled software firm.

Cognotec is a Dublin-based company which specialises in software for financial markets. It was placed into receivership on January 22nd on foot of an application from Barclays, which is owed some $9 million (€6.5 million)..

Cognotec was founded 20 years ago and now has operations in Dublin, London, New York, Singapore and Tokyo and employs 65 people.. The firm's AutoDeal+ product, a leading FX pricing and execution engine is widely used throughout the world.

In the year to November 30th 2008 Cognotec generated revenues of $18.5 million and reported a loss before tax of $1.8 million.

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Subject to due diligence First Derivatives said it expects to be able to finalise terms and complete the acquisition within the next few days.

Charlie Taylor

Charlie Taylor

Charlie Taylor is a former Irish Times business journalist