InterContinental Exchange chief executive Jeff Sprecher’s bullish call on the global environment for exchange acquisitions, coupled with his emphasis on London’s importance as a commodities trading centre, will do little to quell speculation that the bourse is strongly considering a bid for the London Metal Exchange.

Much speculation has followed September's revelation that the LME has received expressions of takeover interest from at least 10 parties. Only one firm has so far expressly confirmed an interest in bidding: London interdealer broker and LME Tier Two member Icap.