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European retail brokers plan institutional and listed derivatives expansion in the face of CFD restrictions

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Retail Revolution is free to read. To download your copy, visit this link.

LONDON, March 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Retail brokers in Europe are targeting growth in institutional markets and expanding into listed futures and options should restrictions on contract for difference (CFD) markets continue to spread across the continent, a study by Acuiti has found. 

Last year, Spain became the latest European country to introduce new restrictions on instruments aimed at retail investors banning the promotion and distribution of CFDs as well as restricting leverage on other instruments. The move by the Spanish regulator follows curbs in other European countries on the promotion of certain retail-focused instruments.

Retail Revolution: How retail brokers are planning to counter CFD restrictions, released today and produced in association with ION, is based on a survey of retail-focused brokerages across Europe and a separate survey of institutional sell-side and trading firms.

The study analyzes the impact on retail brokers of expanded restrictions and how they plan to respond. In addition, we asked institutional firms about attitudes to the crackdowns on retail offerings and how firms view both the threat and the opportunity posed by the potential of retail expansion into listed markets.

The study found high levels of concern among retail brokers about the potential for increased curbs on retail instruments. This was particularly evident regarding CFDs, which would have the most significant impact on the business models of the majority of retail brokers that participated in the study.  

Were widespread restrictions to come into force across Europe, 77% of retail brokers planned to expand in other regions, 69% would seek to grow in institutional markets, and just over half would look to offer futures and options instead of OTC retail instruments, such as CFDs.

For incumbent institutional brokers, this presents a competitive challenge. However, only around half of the institutional sell-side firms that participated in the survey expected increased competition from retail firms, and none anticipated a significant challenge.

“There are several examples globally of brokers who initially focused on retail and subsequently became major players in institutional markets,” said Will Mitting, founder of Acuiti. “In Europe, there is the potential for significant numbers of brokers to enter the institutional market over the next three years.”

“Should retail trading shift to listed derivatives markets, the overall market available to institutional brokers will grow. However, there will also be major disruption as the retail firms bring fresh competition to the markets. Our view based on this research is that the institutional incumbents underestimate the extent of the potential disruption.”

The study found that retail brokers were planning to invest in technology across the trade workflow to expand their offerings, with investment in trading, risk management, reconciliations, and straight-through processing to achieve front-to-back efficiency the most common.

“The insights from this study reinforce our commitment to automating workflow throughout the cleared derivatives trade lifecycle and the derivatives clearing process,” says Bruce Roberts, ION Cleared Derivatives. “Our suite of XTP products caters for automation of the full trade life-cycle including trading, clearing, trade processing and real-time risk management , enabling firms to seamlessly scale their business and operations as they expand their product offering and customer base into new market segments.”

Download the full report here: https://iongroup.com/resource-center/markets/retail-revolution-how-retail-brokers-are-planning-to-counter-cfd-restrictions/

About Acuiti
Acuiti is a management intelligence platform designed to provide Senior Industry Professionals in the Derivatives Industry with high-value insight into industry-wide performance and business operations. Acuiti provides a platform through which our exclusive network of Senior Industry Executives can share and source information on day-to-day operational challenges, providing them and their management teams with increased transparency and in-depth analysis to make more informed decisions and benchmark company performance. Financial Institutions benefiting from our services include Banks, Non-bank FCMs, Brokers, Proprietary Trading Firms, Hedge Funds and Asset Managers.

About ION
ION provides mission-critical trading and workflow automation software, high-value analytics and insights, and strategic consulting to financial institutions, central banks, governments, and corporate organizations. Our solutions and services simplify complex processes, boost efficiency, and enable better decision-making. We build long-term partnerships with our clients, helping transform their businesses for sustained success through continuous innovation. For more information, visit https://iongroup.com/.

About ION Markets
ION Markets provides transformative technology and solutions to financial institutions dealing in asset management, cleared derivatives, equities, fixed income, foreign exchange, and secured funding. Our award-winning end-to-end solutions simplify clients’ operations by automating the full trade lifecycle, providing tools to manage risk, and maximizing access to liquidity, while giving real-time access to critical information required for timely operational decisions and execution on a global scale. For more information, visit https://iongroup.com/markets/.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/european-retail-brokers-plan-institutional-and-listed-derivatives-expansion-in-the-face-of-cfd-restrictions-302080575.html

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TrailIntel Acquires GPS Trailmasters Software Platform to Advance Next-Generation Outdoor Navigation

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April 23, 2026

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This advancement significantly expands the capabilities available to riders, introducing a more powerful, connected, and scalable navigation experience across Garmin, Mobile and Web.

STRONG, Maine, April 23, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — TrailIntel, the industry’s leading vertically integrated outdoor technology platform, today announced the acquisition and integration of GPS Trailmasters’ Garmin and mobile software products. This milestone builds on the longstanding relationship between the two companies and marks a significant step forward in delivering a more connected, intuitive, and scalable navigation experience for outdoor enthusiasts across North America.

“This is a major leap forward for outdoor recreation,” said Brian Gavin, Co-Founder of TrailIntel. “We’re preserving trusted mapping while delivering a more connected, simplified navigation experience on and off the trail.”

For over 18 years, GPS Trailmasters has been a trusted leader in electronic trail mapping, known for delivering highly accurate and reliable data to riders throughout the Northeastern United States. By integrating this proven dataset into TrailIntel’s modern platform, the combined solution introduces enhanced functionality, real-time capabilities, and a streamlined user experience across both Garmin and mobile devices.

TrailIntel’s mission is to deliver a complete, easy-to-use platform that connects planning, navigation, real-time trail conditions, and community engagement—enhancing safety, simplifying operations, and improving the outdoor experience.

“The evolution of GPS Trailmasters into TrailIntel represents a major leap forward for the outdoor recreation industry,” said Brian Gavin, Co-Founder of TrailIntel. “We’re preserving the trusted mapping foundation riders rely on, while introducing a more powerful, connected experience that simplifies navigation and expands what’s possible both on and off the trail.”

As part of the transition, Eric Murphy, owner of GPS Trailmasters, joins TrailIntel as Chief Geospatial Officer, where he will lead mapping strategy, expansion, and ongoing data development across all supported regions. “I’ve always believed in building high-quality maps and strong relationships within the riding community,” said Murphy. “With TrailIntel, we’re able to take everything GPS Trailmasters has built and scale it nationally, while continuing to deliver the same level of quality, service, and trust our customers expect.”

What This Means for Riders. The integration delivers a seamless upgrade for existing GPS Trailmasters customers, while introducing new capabilities across the TrailIntel platform: for Garmin users: simplified installation and map updates, expanded device compatibility, automatic route syncing from TrailIntel, streamlined experience with no third-party software required.

For Mobile Users: Real-time trail updates and conditions, offline navigation and breadcrumb tracking, turn-by-turn routing, community-driven insights and shared content advancing the outdoor experience.

The combination of GPS Trailmasters’ trusted mapping data with TrailIntel’s modern technology platform creates a comprehensive solution designed to serve the entire outdoor ecosystem: riders gain better planning tools, safer navigation, and more confidence on the trail. Clubs benefit from improved tools to manage, maintain, and grow their trail systems. Businesses and communities gain increased visibility and new opportunities driven by outdoor tourism

A key initiative of TrailIntel is continuing to support the organizations that sustain outdoor recreation, including opportunities to drive engagement and funding back to local clubs and trail systems.

Expanded Role for GPS Trailmasters. GPS Trailmasters will continue to operate under its brand, taking on an expanded role focused on nationwide hardware distribution and support, including: garmin device sales, ride Ready tablets, mounting systems and accessories.

This evolution allows GPS Trailmasters to extend its reach beyond the Northeast while supporting the growing demand for integrated hardware and software solutions.

A Pivotal Moment for Outdoor Recreation. The integration represents a long-term investment in the future of outdoor navigation, one that prioritizes accuracy, usability, and real-time connectivity. By combining legacy expertise with modern technology, TrailIntel is redefining how riders discover, plan, and experience the outdoors.

About TrailIntel:

TrailIntel is the industry’s first vertically integrated outdoor technology platform, designed to connect riders, clubs, businesses, and first responders through mapping, navigation, and real-time data. The platform delivers a seamless experience across mobile, web, and Garmin devices, helping users plan smarter and explore with confidence. For more information about TrailIntel, visit www.trailintel.com and follow along on Facebook and Instagram at @TrailIntel.

About GPS Trailmasters:

GPS Trailmasters has been a trusted provider of trail mapping technology for over 18 years, delivering high-quality GPS-based navigation solutions for snowmobile and ATV riders. The company will continue operations as a leading hardware provider supporting the TrailIntel ecosystem. For more information about GPS Trailmasters, visit www.gpstrailmasters.com and follow along on Facebook.

Media Contact

Brian Gavin, Trailintel, 1 207-241-4745, brian@trailintel.com, trailintel.com

View original content:https://www.prweb.com/releases/trailintel-acquires-gps-trailmasters-software-platform-to-advance-next-generation-outdoor-navigation-302750997.html

SOURCE Trailintel

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Z3 Technology Enables Rapid Project Development with the EXOSENS MicroCube XP Thermal Cores

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April 23, 2026

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LINCOLN, Neb., April 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Z3 Technology, LLC, a leader in embedded camera encoding systems, today announces the release of our CIB-EX22 Camera Interface Board, which enables direct control and power to the EXOSENS MicroCube 640 XP shutterless thermal camera from Z3 OEM Video Encoder solutions through an LVDS digital video output connector, via 30-pin KEL cable. Jumpstart your camera system development with Z3’s cutting-edge hardware encoding technology for real-time video streaming.

Designed for efficiency and performance, our video encoders combine top-tier video compression and ultra-low bandwidth usage into a solution consuming <5W of power. Full camera and encoder control is available through serial or remote APIs, while multiple UART and GPIO interfaces enable seamless integration with external devices such as pan/tilt mounts, heater and wiper triggers, GPS, and range finders. User custom development is supported through our comprehensive SDK and OEM Starter Kits, allowing for rapid adaptation of evolving mission requirements. Hardware Specification documents, 3D model files, and interface schematics are available upon request to accelerate development progress. Z3 Technology solutions support simultaneous video streaming and recording across a wide range of camera models, delivering flexible, reliable video performance at the tactical edge.

“Z3 Technology is excited to announce our support of EXOSENS MicroCube XP series of shutterless thermal camera cores. Our new CIB-EX22 will enable seamless integration and control via our series of Z3 OEM Video Encoders for numerous markets including unmanned vehicles, security, surveillance, and remote sensing,” said Aaron Caldwell CEO of Z3 Technology, LLC.

Our miniature Q603 product line is the perfect platform to compliment efforts that the EXOSENS team has shown, considering the minimal footprint design of the MicroCube 640 XP. Development teams contemplating the addition of a 2nd thermal sensor or a visible zoom block camera should look no further than our FV2K and FV4K models, which have an additional video input for dual camera streaming up to 4Kp30. Proven product applications include camera systems in industries like Security & Surveillance, Unmanned Systems, and Military Video Solutions.

“In a win-win approach, this first bundle CIB-EX22 / MicroCube 640 XP values the true SWaP approach of EXOSENS LWIR thermal cores, required for highly integrated electro-optic systems,” said Mr. Guillaume Bunoz, Executive General Manager of EXOSENS Advanced Imaging Business Unit. “Microcube XP features many USPs (e.g. 1pt-NUC shutterless, tunable functions, OSD, low latency) that make it successful, especially in UAS market segment. This bundle with Z3 enables users to easily implement the DV CMOS 16 bits variant, beside the existing popular MIPI and UVC product versions of the MicroCube 640 XP.”

Explore What’s Possible with Z3 Technology
All Z3 video solutions are Made in the USA and fully compliant with NDAA, TAA, REACH, and RoHS requirements. Product design and manufacturing are performed by Z3 Technology, LLC, an ISO 9001–certified manufacturer.

Z3’s flexible embedded video encoder solutions can help power your next innovation. Learn more about our hardware encoding solutions and contact us to discuss your integration needs.

For more information on Z3 Technology’s SD to 4K Embedded Encoders and Camera Solutions, contact us today. Email sales@z3technology.com or visit our website at https://z3technology.com/products/oem/ to explore available options.

All product and company names mentioned within are trademarks™ or registered® trademarks of their respective owners.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/z3-technology-enables-rapid-project-development-with-the-exosens-microcube-xp-thermal-cores-302751003.html

SOURCE Z3 Technology

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CareScout Joins Ensight™ Intelligent Quote LTC & Life Marketplace

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April 23, 2026

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Ensight, a leading digital sales acceleration platform for life, long-term care (LTC), and annuity insurance, today announced that CareScout Care Assurance, the inaugural long-term care insurance solution from CareScout Insurance Company (CareScout), is now available on its Intelligent Quote Platform.

SAN DIEGO, April 23, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Ensight, a leading digital sales acceleration platform for life, long-term care (LTC), and annuity insurance, today announced that CareScout Care Assurance, the inaugural long-term care insurance solution from CareScout Insurance Company (CareScout), is now available on its Intelligent Quote Platform. This partnership marks a significant milestone for CareScout, signaling its rapid growth and commitment to a more integrated model for planning, finding, and funding care.

“By expanding access to Care Assurance through the Ensight platform, we’re making it easier for families to plan, navigate, and pay for long-term care in a more connected way.”

CareScout Care Assurance is a simple, personalized LTC insurance solution designed to help protect clients and their families from future care costs. When choosing CareScout, policyholders gain access to a unified ecosystem that brings together financial protection, expert guidance, and connections to trusted care providers – supporting families across every stage of the aging journey.

“CareScout represents an important and unique value-added addition to the growing range of solutions available in the long-term care market,” said Bill Unrue, CEO of Ensight. “We are thrilled to add the CareScout Care Assurance solution to the Ensight Intelligent Quote marketplace, providing distributors and financial professionals access to a holistic insurance product that expands the value of financial protection with additional integrated services.”

A modern LTC solution built for families, not just policyholders:

Care Assurance connects policyholders and their families to CareScout’s platform, helping them navigate care decisions, identify quality providers, and access trusted resources. This integrated approach reflects CareScout’s belief that insurance alone is incomplete without services, and that families benefit most when coverage, navigation, and support are unified.

“Families don’t experience aging or caregiving in silos,” said Samir Shah, CEO of CareScout. “By expanding access to Care Assurance through the Ensight platform, we’re making it easier for families to plan, navigate, and pay for long-term care in a more connected way.”

Supporting advisors in a changing long-term care landscape:

Ensight’s Intelligent Quote Platform enables financial professionals to efficiently illustrate and compare life, LTC, and annuity products while supporting more informed client conversations. With the addition of CareScout Care Assurance, Ensight’s growing distributor community gains access to an innovative solution built for today’s realities: rising longevity, increasing caregiving responsibilities, and families seeking clarity across planning, care, and funding.

About Ensight™

Ensight™ is the leading cloud-based insurance sales acceleration platform for more than 500 life, long-term care (LTC) and annuity distributors, thousands of financial professionals, as well as many of the largest North American insurance carriers. Headquartered in San Diego, California, Ensight helps drive sales growth and productivity, while addressing the entire sales lifecycle experience – from prospect to policyholder, new business to inforce.

To learn more about Ensight, visit https://www.ensightcloud.com/

About CareScout

CareScout helps older adults and their families navigate the aging journey, find, and fund quality care. Inspired by a mission to simplify and dignify the aging experience, we’re building an integrated ecosystem of care and funding solutions. To learn more about CareScout, visit www.CareScout.com. CareScout is a wholly owned subsidiary of Genworth Financial, Inc. (NYSE: GNW). CareScout is the marketing name for CareScout Holdings, Inc., its affiliates and entities. Affiliates and entities are solely and separately responsible for their own financial and contractual obligations.

Media Contact
Matt Essick, Ensight, 1 (619) 430-0587, messick@ensightcloud.com, https://ensightcloud.com
Evans Mandes, CareScout, 1 804-629-6582, evans.mandes@carescout.com, https://www.carescout.com/ 

View original content:https://www.prweb.com/releases/carescout-joins-ensight-intelligent-quote-ltc–life-marketplace-302750986.html

SOURCE Ensight

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