ION launches XTP to power event-based trading markets

By Parth Prabhudesai

ION Group has announced the launch of XTP for Event Contracts, a fully automated, real-time solution designed to streamline the creation, resolution, and settlement of event-based contracts. The move marks ION’s entry into the growing prediction markets segment, expanding its capabilities beyond traditional derivatives workflows.

The XTP platform, already used by Futures Commission Merchants (FCMs) for exchange-traded derivatives (ETD) and cleared over-the-counter (OTC) processes, now enables firms to manage event contracts on a 24×7 basis. The solution supports real-time account and contract creation, instant balance updates, and immediate settlement, including trading over weekends and holidays.

By offering seamless connectivity to multiple markets, pre-configured event products, and standard reconciliation processes, XTP aims to help brokers and clearing firms capitalise on emerging opportunities in event-driven trading.

Wedbush Securities has partnered with ION to deploy the platform, using it to support event contracts linked to benchmarks, economic indicators, politics, and sports. The platform was implemented in under six weeks ahead of its initial launch in December 2025, with further rollouts aligned with major events such as the Super Bowl and March Madness.

“At Wedbush, we are focused on leading the next wave of market innovation,” said Rodrigo Parrode, COO of Wedbush Securities. “Our partnership with ION allowed us to launch XTP for Event Contracts quickly, combining scalable infrastructure with disciplined execution.”

Samuel Shorthouse, Head of Client Engagement for Cleared Derivatives at ION, added: “XTP for Event Contracts is designed to help firms capture opportunities in this new market segment. We are proud to support clients like Wedbush as they bridge growing retail demand with institutional-grade market infrastructure.”

The launch highlights increasing interest in prediction markets, as firms seek technology solutions that offer speed, scalability, and compliance in a rapidly evolving trading environment.