The head of the IntercontinentalExchange has said he is still eager to explore opportunities with the derivatives arm of rival NYSE Euronext, despite the decision of US regulators last month to block the group's attempt to merge with the business.

Jeffrey Sprecher, chairman and chief executive of Ice, described the London-based NYSE Liffe as a "great franchise" and said he is still eyeing co-operation with the entity as part of efforts to expand the Atlanta-based group into Europe and the interest rate market.