Laura WilesThe FCA is seeking views on whether the LSE Group and the landlord of the LSE data centre building have hindered competition for low latency connectivity services (LLCS) between certain trading venues.
At present, only the LSE Group can use the rooftop data centre building for radio equipment used for LLCS. The FCA is concerned that these exclusive rights prevent rival LLCS providers from installing equipment on the rooftop, favouring LSE Group’s own LLCS and so hindering competition.
In response to the FCA’s concerns, LSE Group and the landlord propose to offer equal access to the rooftop. Specifically, LSE Group’s exclusive rights will cease and it will only use part of the space for its equipment, with an equivalent space being made available to third parties on a fair and reasonable basis. The FCA provisionally considers that these proposals address its competition concerns.
The consultation closes on 29 September 2025.