Bob Greifeld, the chief executive of Nasdaq OMX, this morning confirmed the transatlantic exchange group is bidding for a minority stake in LCH.Clearnet, following nearly three weeks of speculation regarding a possible takeover of the independent Anglo-French clearing house.

Speaking to journalists at the annual Federation of European Securities Exchanges conference in Athens this morning, Greifeld said the company had tabled a bid for a minority stake in the company that would encompass both equities and derivatives clearing capability. The bid is part of a consortium of several parties.