Busan, South Korea – NinjaTrader Group, a U.S.-based financial technology firm known for its derivatives trading platform, has announced that it will establish its first Asian headquarters in Busan, South Korea. This strategic move is a significant step in Busan’s efforts to position itself as a global financial hub.
The Busan city government revealed on October 7, 2024, that NinjaTrader’s local entity, NT Korea, will occupy office space in the Busan International Finance Center (BIFC). This decision aligns with the city’s broader initiatives to strengthen its fintech and digital finance sectors, part of a long-term plan to attract international financial institutions.
Founded in 2003, NinjaTrader serves over 200,000 users globally and plays a prominent role in futures trading through the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME). With the establishment of its Busan headquarters, the company aims to integrate its expertise in digital financial services with the growing demand for advanced financial solutions in Asia.
The city of Busan, eager to strengthen its standing in global finance, actively recruited foreign firms to the BIFC. Between August and September 2024, Busan conducted a comprehensive selection process for firms interested in setting up operations at the financial center. The process included an initial document review, followed by a detailed presentation phase where companies outlined their potential contributions to the local financial ecosystem. NT Korea was among the companies selected, underscoring its suitability for contributing to Busan’s economic goals.
The companies chosen to move into the BIFC are offered up to three years of rent-free office space, with periodic evaluations allowing for long-term occupancy. This support package is part of the city’s wider strategy to create a competitive, attractive environment for global finance firms.
Jung Eui-Cheol, CEO of NT Korea, commented on the company’s plans, stating, “Busan is positioning itself as a major financial city in Asia, and NinjaTrader aims to maximize Busan’s potential as a global hub for derivatives trading. We plan to contribute to Busan’s growth into an international financial hub.”
Although NinjaTrader’s immediate job creation in the region may be limited, the broader economic benefits could be considerable. The company’s entry is expected to encourage foreign investment in Busan’s financial sector and foster collaboration with local fintech firms and academic institutions. These partnerships could drive innovation, create highly skilled jobs, and position Busan as a leader in the fintech industry.
Additionally, NinjaTrader’s advanced platform and tools for futures and derivatives trading are expected to benefit both local and international investors. The company is poised to play a key role in the development of the Korean Exchange’s derivatives night market, slated to open in 2025, which will further enhance South Korea’s financial infrastructure.
Despite the optimism, NT Korea must still secure regulatory approval from South Korean financial authorities to fully operate as a futures broker. This approval is a necessary step for the company to bring its complete suite of services to Korean investors. However, industry experts believe that NinjaTrader’s entry into Busan will act as a blueprint for other international fintech firms considering a presence in Asia.
NinjaTrader’s decision to establish its first Asian headquarters in Busan is seen as a key development in the city’s quest to become a major player in global finance. With plans to collaborate with local businesses and educational institutions, NinjaTrader’s presence is expected to significantly contribute to Busan’s emerging reputation as a hub for digital finance and fintech innovation. This move signals a new chapter for both NinjaTrader and Busan, one that could pave the way for more international financial institutions to follow suit.
