R.J. O'Brien Merges with StoneX Group to Enhance Futures Brokerage Leadership

R.J. O'Brien Merges with StoneX Group: A New Era in Futures Brokerage

In an important move for the financial industry, R.J. O'Brien & Associates (RJO), recognized as the oldest futures brokerage and clearing firm in the United States, has entered into a definitive agreement to merge with StoneX Group Inc. (NASDAQ: SNEX). This merger signifies a transformational step towards strengthening the market position of both firms as leading players in the futures brokerage sector.

The Strategic Merger

Announced on April 14, 2025, the merger will combine all global operations of RJO into StoneX, pending regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. Once this transaction is finalized, expected in the third quarter of this year, the joint entity will become a prominent futures commission merchant (FCM) in the U.S., integral to the global financial market structure.

StoneX, a Fortune 100 company with a robust market capitalization exceeding $3.5 billion, boasts a wide-ranging operational footprint spanning six continents. R.J. O'Brien operates offices in North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, thus combining their strengths across a global network.

Sean O'Connor, Executive Vice-Chairman of StoneX, emphasized the significance of this merger, stating that it establishes the company as a leading global derivatives clearing firm. He mentioned how the fusion of RJO’s long-standing relationships and proven capabilities with StoneX’s liquidity and innovative solutions will enhance their service delivery to clients while broadening market access and trading opportunities.

Leadership Continuity

Gerry Corcoran, the current CEO of RJO, who has played an instrumental role in the firm’s success, will join StoneX in a senior leadership capacity. He expressed excitement about the merger, reflecting on the shared history and complementary nature of both firms. Corcoran noted that RJO’s clients would continue to receive the same high level of service and maintain their relationships with brokers they trust, while also gaining access to a wider array of products and services.

“We both share a commitment to our clients and a focus on prudent risk management,” said Corcoran. This sentiment was echoed by Bob O'Brien, Jr., a board member representing the O'Brien family, majority shareholders in RJO. He articulated the merger as a pivotal step that retains core values while positioning RJO to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving financial landscape.

Family Legacy and Future

The O'Brien family, which has overseen RJO for over a century, views this merger as a natural progression for the company. Board member John O'Brien, Jr. highlighted how his family’s legacy and their commitment to integrity and client relations will be enhanced through this partnership.

Broadhaven Capital Partners are acting as the exclusive financial advisors for RJO, while Mayer Brown LLP serves as their legal counsel, ensuring a smooth transition into the new firm structure.

For those interested in a more in-depth understanding, StoneX plans to host a conference call to discuss the details of the merger. Additional information can be accessed through their corporate website.

About R.J. O'Brien

Founded in 1914, R.J. O'Brien & Associates has built a legacy of serving more than 75,000 clients globally, including institutional and commercial clients, supported by around 300 introducing brokers. RJO has earned recognition for its electronic trading and execution capabilities across all major futures exchanges worldwide. Notably, it has received the FOW International Award for Non-Bank FCM of the Year for five consecutive years, solidifying its status in the futures brokerage sector.

About StoneX Group Inc.

StoneX Group Inc. connects varied entities—including companies, traders, and investors—to the global market. They offer unique digital platforms alongside extensive clearing and execution services, bolstered by knowledgeable support. As a Fortune 100 company, StoneX operates across a substantial geographic presence, serving over 54,000 institutional clients and a significant number of retail accounts.

With this merger, both R.J. O'Brien and StoneX are embarking on a promising path towards greater innovation, superior services, and enhanced opportunities for their clients, solidifying their statuses as leaders in the futures brokerage industry.