The UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has officially launched the tender process to appoint a provider for a bond consolidated tape (CT), adding momentum to the broader European push for market transparency.
The move comes as the EU also progresses with its own consolidated tape initiative, as previously reported by PostTrade 360°. Similar to the EU project, the UK bond CT will compile transaction data—including prices and volumes—from both trading venues and over-the-counter trades. The goal is to provide investors with timely, high-quality data at a reasonable cost, ultimately improving market efficiency and liquidity.
The FCA has published a tender notice outlining the procurement process, with key documents such as the invitation to tender and a draft contract available on its procurement portal. Firms interested in bidding must register on the portal to access these documents and submit any questions regarding the process. The deadline for the first stage of applications is 25 April.
