ASX has appointed Anthony Attia as its next Managing Director and CEO, bringing nearly 30 years of global exchange experience to guide the company through its ongoing transformation.
- Anthony Attia appointed ASX CEO effective 1 September 2026
- Nearly 30 years of leadership at Euronext, ICE, NYSE Euronext
- $2 million fixed salary with substantial variable and equity incentives
- Appointment subject to work authorisations and shareholder approval
- Transition follows Helen Lofthouse’s departure in May 2026
Global Exchange Veteran Takes the Helm at ASX
ASX Limited has named Anthony Attia as its new Managing Director and CEO, effective 1 September 2026, marking a significant leadership transition for Australia's premier market infrastructure operator. Attia arrives with a formidable resume spanning nearly three decades across European and US exchanges, including senior roles at Euronext, Intercontinental Exchange (ICE), and NYSE Euronext. His appointment comes as ASX navigates a comprehensive transformation, including technology upgrades and governance reforms.
Attia’s extensive experience covers the entire exchange value chain; from primary markets and listings to post-trade services like clearing and settlement; making him well-positioned to lead ASX’s integrated operations. During his tenure as CEO of Euronext Paris and later as Global Head of Derivatives and Post Trade at Euronext, he spearheaded strategic growth initiatives and technology advancements such as the proprietary Optiq trading platform and the expansion of Euronext Clearing into a multi-asset international clearing house.
Compensation Reflects Market Expectations for Leadership
ASX has set Attia’s fixed remuneration at $2 million per annum, supplemented by a short-term variable reward plan targeting $1.7 million and capped at 150% of target, split between cash and deferred equity. Additionally, a long-term variable reward valued at $2 million is subject to shareholder approval at the 2026 AGM. To offset incentives forfeited by leaving his prior role, Attia will receive replacement restricted shares valued up to $6.3 million, vesting in tranches aligned with ASX’s financial results over the next two years.
The remuneration structure underscores ASX’s commitment to attracting and retaining top-tier leadership amid its ongoing transformation. The company’s recent launch of CHESS Release 1 clearing services, designed to boost scalability and resilience, exemplifies the technology-driven changes Attia will oversee as he steps into the role previously held by Helen Lofthouse, who departs at the end of May 2026. In the interim, Group Executive Markets and Listings Darren Yip has been appointed acting CEO to manage the transition.
Strategic Leadership Amidst ASX’s Transformation Journey
Chair David Clarke highlighted Attia’s proven track record in technology-enabled transformation and his understanding of the responsibilities tied to critical market infrastructure. Attia’s arrival coincides with ASX’s efforts to strengthen governance and risk management following ASIC’s inquiry, which has prompted a strategic reset and increased capital requirements. ASX’s ongoing technology overhaul, including the rollout of CHESS Release 1 clearing services earlier this year, is a key pillar in this reset and sets the stage for Attia’s leadership focus.
Attia expressed enthusiasm about joining ASX during this pivotal period, signalling his intent to engage closely with Australia’s market ecosystem and reinforce ASX’s position as a leading capital markets hub in the Asia Pacific region. His background in navigating complex regulatory environments and driving cross-jurisdictional growth will be critical as ASX advances its transformation agenda.
The appointment remains contingent on Attia obtaining the necessary work authorisations in Australia and shareholder approval for his long-term incentives. His extensive governance experience includes board roles with European exchanges and clearing houses, adding depth to his stewardship credentials as ASX moves forward.
Bottom Line?
Anthony Attia’s appointment signals a strategic pivot for ASX, with his global exchange expertise poised to influence the company’s transformation trajectory and competitive positioning in Asia Pacific.
Questions in the middle?
- How will Attia’s international experience shape ASX’s strategic priorities in the Asia Pacific region?
- What impact will the remuneration structure have on aligning leadership incentives with ASX’s transformation goals?
- How swiftly will Attia engage with regulatory stakeholders to navigate post-ASIC inquiry reforms?