Former Head of EBS Direct, Hugh Whelan, joins SGX FX as Head of Liquidity Management and Data Strategy

SGX FX has appointed Hugh Whelan as its new Head of Liquidity Management and Data Strategy. 

Whelan, a seasoned financial services executive with nearly three decades of experience in the FX industry, brings a wealth of expertise to his new role. His career spans several major financial institutions and includes a pivotal role in the founding of a multi-bank FX aggregation platform.

Most recently, Whelan served as Head of EBS Direct FX Trading Platforms at CME Group from November 2013 to June 2024. During this tenure, he played a crucial role in the launch and development of EBS Direct, a bilateral FX trading venue for spot, forwards, swaps, and metals.

Prior to his role at CME Group, Whelan was a Co-Founder and Non-Executive Director of FXSpotStream LLC from August 2010 to October 2013. This venture, a multi-bank FX aggregation platform, was founded by a consortium of the world's largest banks as a market utility providing technology and infrastructure to support clients' FX trading via API in New York, London, and Tokyo.

Whelan's experience also includes an eight-year stint at Commerzbank AG (which acquired Dresdner Bank during his tenure) from June 2005 to October 2013, where he held the position of Director. His earlier career saw him in senior roles at Mizuho (2002-2005), Bayerische Landesbank (2000-2002), and MUFG (1994-2000), where he witnessed the merger of Tokai, Bank of Tokyo Mitsubishi, and UFJ Banks.

Commenting on his new role, Whelan stated, "I am thrilled to join SGX FX at such an exciting time in the company's growth and look forward to working closely with Jean-Philippe Malé and the team to enhance our platform offerings and ensure we maintain a competitive edge in a fast-evolving market."

SGX FX also commented on Whelna's  appointment, stating, "We're delighted to welcome Hugh Whelan as our new Head of Liquidity Management and Data Strategy. With an impressive track record at EBS, where he was instrumental in the launch and evolution of EBS Direct into a leading FX trading venue, Hugh brings a wealth of expertise to SGX FX."

In his new role at SGX FX, Whelan will be responsible for leading the strategic growth of the company's Liquidity Provider client segment and data products. His focus will be on building strong relationships with banks, brokers, and financial institutions, as well as driving innovation to enhance the platform and better serve the LP community.

The company added, “Hugh's deep understanding of FX markets, coupled with his strategic vision and global partnership experience, will be invaluable in expanding our SGX FX franchise worldwide.”