Xavier Rolet, the incoming chief executive of the London Stock Exchange, stamped his authority on the business this morning by outlining a shift in focus towards over-the-counter derivatives and hinting at a new technology masterplan to fend off upstart rivals.

Speaking at an analysts' call at which the LSE reported a £333m full-year loss, Rolet spoke of the resilience of the exchange sector and the "tremendous opportunities" thrown up by regulatory changes.