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CMC Markets has marked 20 years of operations in New Zealand, highlighting its long-term presence in the local online trading and investing market and a strategy that combines local leadership with a global group structure.
The New Zealand business is based in Auckland's central business district and has served clients nationwide. It operates as part of CMC Group, founded in London in 1989, which now serves clients in more than 150 countries and is listed on the London Stock Exchange.
The New Zealand operation has provided access to global markets through its trading platform during periods of market volatility. The company also highlighted a partnership with ASB Bank, expected to expand access to CMC technology solutions later this year.
Local operations
The New Zealand unit offers retail trading services as well as a business-to-business product, CMC Connect. It describes CMC Connect as a technology solution for financial institutions with trading and investment requirements.
CEO Lord Peter Cruddas linked the anniversary to the company's direction in the market.
"Reaching 20 years in New Zealand is a proud milestone for CMC Markets. New Zealand has always been an important market for us, and our success here reflects a long-term commitment to combining global capability with strong local leadership, innovation and service."
He also set out the business's focus as markets and trading technology continue to change.
"We've focused on one thing in New Zealand - putting clients first. Markets and technology will continue to evolve, but our commitment to quality, transparency and delivering value to Kiwi investors remains unchanged."
Management milestone
The anniversary also coincides with a 20-year milestone for Managing Director Chris Smith, who has been with CMC Markets since the early stages of its New Zealand presence. Smith began his career at CMC Markets in Sydney before returning to New Zealand to help establish the local office in late 2005. He was appointed general manager in 2009.
Smith pointed to changes in how retail clients trade, including increased mobile use and broader market access.
"Having been part of CMC Markets in New Zealand from the very beginning, it's incredibly rewarding to see how far we've come," Smith said. "When we opened the office, mobile trading didn't really exist, and international market access was expensive. Most clients were trading by phone and focused primarily on the NZX/ASX and foreign exchange. Over the past 20 years, we've consistently led with technology - providing Kiwi investors with seamless access to global markets from day one, while significantly reducing the costs of participation.
"We launched New Zealand's first mobile trading platform in 2006 - a year before the iPhone - and today, over half our clients trade on mobile. We invest millions globally every year in our proprietary technology to stay at the forefront of innovation, and more recently we've strengthened our local offering through partnerships such as ASB Bank on the stockbroking side of the business.
"Across every major market event, from the Global Financial Crisis to trade wars, elections and dramatic shifts in central bank policy, our focus has remained constant: providing Kiwi traders with a reliable, accessible and innovative trading experience in all market conditions. Looking ahead, we expect the next 20 years to be just as dynamic, with continued investment in technology, new products and better ways for New Zealanders to engage with global markets."
Partnerships and sponsorships
The company also pointed to local partnerships beyond its core trading products, including support for a number of New Zealand organisations. These include Blues Rugby since 2021, along with Ronald McDonald House Charities, Variety and KiwiHarvest.
CMC Markets said it will continue to invest in technology and develop its local offering, alongside work with partners such as ASB Bank.