Deutsche Börse has vowed to persist with plans to merge with Euronext despite an agreement between the European exchange and NYSE Group to combine "in a merger of equals".

Deutsche Börse said in a statement that "it continues to believe in the substance and value of a transaction with Euronext. A combination of the two organisations would also have a significant positive impact on European financial markets. Deutsche Börse will continue to work towards a combination of the two companies."