FNG Exclusive Interview… A leading candidate for FX & CFDs industry “deal of the year” is clearly the acquisition of Skilling by the ownership group of INFINOX, bringing two of the leading online brokerage firms together under one roof.

We’re pleased to speak today to the CEOs of the two companies – Skilling’s George Kyriakoudes and Lee Holmes from INFINOX – to find out more about how the deal came about, and what’s ahead for the two brands.

FNG: Hi George, and thanks for joining us today. How did the deal come about?

George: The decision came after a period of constructive dialogue and shared recognition that both companies were heading in the same direction including technologically, strategically, and culturally. Skilling has always been driven by innovation and accessibility in online trading, while INFINOX has built a strong global infrastructure and reputation for trust and regulation.

As the sector continues to mature, it became clear that combining our strengths would accelerate our ability to compete, scale, and innovate. What started as exploratory discussions between two like-minded teams evolved naturally into a partnership that makes sense for our clients, staff, and long-term vision.

FNG: What are the main advantages of combining forces with INFINOX?

George: As I said before, INFINOX brings depth of experience, a strong regulatory footprint, and global operational scale, while Skilling contributes cutting-edge technology and a strong Scandinavian and European client base. Together, that creates a powerful blend of innovation and stability.

This combination allows us to move faster on technology integration, platform enhancements, and market expansion, while ensuring that we continue to uphold the highest standards of compliance and client protection. In short, we now have the agility of a fintech and the backbone of an established global broker.

FNG: Will the Skilling brand continue to operate independently?

George: Yes, Skilling will continue to operate under its own brand for the foreseeable future. There’s enormous value in the identity we’ve built, the Scandinavian transparency, client-centric design, and technology-first mindset.

However, we’re now part of a broader group, which means clients will start to benefit from shared infrastructure, liquidity access, and innovation pipelines. Over time, there may be areas of closer alignment, but brand integrity and client trust will always be the priority.

FNG: From INFINOX’s perspective, what are the main things it and its clients gain by combining forces with Skilling?

Lee: INFINOX gains a high-performing, technology-led platform with strong traction in Europe and among younger traders. Skilling’s digital DNA and agile product development complement INFINOX’s strength in regulation, institutional relationships, and global scale.

Together, we’re creating a group that’s more diversified, resilient, and forward-looking a model for what a next-generation brokerage can be.

FNG: Are we likely to see more consolidation in the CFDs brokerage industry, led by INFINOX?

Lee: Consolidation is inevitable, the market is evolving quickly, regulation is tightening, and clients are demanding more trust, transparency, and quality of experience.

I think what’s notable about INFINOX’s approach is that it’s strategic, not opportunistic. This isn’t consolidation for size; it’s about fit. Bringing together firms with complementary strengths creates stability and innovation capacity – exactly what this industry needs.

FNG: What are the key challenges ahead for the online trading sector, and how is the new group positioned to face them?

Lee: The sector faces three big challenges: regulatory harmonisation, technological differentiation, and client education. AI, data, and automation are transforming how brokers operate, but they also bring new compliance and trust requirements.

The INFINOX–Skilling proposition is well positioned on all fronts. We have strong governance, deep technical capability, and a culture built around responsible innovation. We want to lead the industry in setting higher standards, not just meeting them.

FNG: What else can we expect to hear from INFINOX and Skilling in the coming months?

Lee: Our immediate focus is integration, aligning systems, sharing technology, and expanding the product roadmap. You’ll see new platform features, more cross-market access, and continued investment in client experience.

Beyond that, this partnership gives us the foundation to think bigger. You can expect announcements around new products, partnerships, and perhaps even new markets. The aim is simple: to build one of the most trusted, technology-driven, and client-focused brokerage groups in the world.