In a related program, the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE Euronext) launched the NYSE Big StartUp.

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Nasdaq needs a foothold in Europe after its rival, the New York Stock Exchange, purchased Euronext earlier this year.

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The merger of NYSE Group , owner of the New York Stock Exchange, and Euronext , operator of several European stockmarkets, came a step closer when it was approved by regulators in Europe.

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Even the New York Stock Exchange merged back in 2007 with Euronext, in Paris.

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The proposed merger of the New York Stock Exchange's parent company and Euronext NV to create an international trading powerhouse is drawing a lot of attention lately.

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NYSE, parent of the New York Stock Exchange, has proposed to merge with Euronext, while Nasdaq has taken a substantial stake in the London Stock Exchange , with an eye to acquiring more.

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"This highlights the risks of electronic trading, " says Louis Pastina, executive vice president and head of operations at NYSE Euronext's New York Stock Exchange.

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Within a few years Euronext Liffe would merge with the New York Stock Exchange, and the Merc would come to terms with a historic rival, the Chicago Board of Trade.

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