ProgressSoft's E-Trading Gateway Embraces Multiple Brokers including The Group

Employing long standing experience in delivering business-critical solutions, ProgressSoft introduced to the Qatari financial market its advanced e-trading innovation, the Securities Trading E-Settlement Gateway. The system initially implemented an electronic platform for end-to-end trading settlement between QNB and Dlala. QNB gateway acts as a payment switch that conducts online routing and trading settlement of trading transactions that can automatically occur from the broker level. The system's electronic payment network recently embraced a wider domain of multiple brokers with the newly implemented gateway at The Group.

"This collaboration with The Group via ProgressSoft's advanced solution comes in line with QNB's aspiration to be the leading bank in Qatar. The electronic gateway induces a higher level of quality across QNB's trading operations and enriches our client's experience with exceptionally satisfying services," affirmed Mr. Ali Ahmed Al Kuwari, General Manager, Operations and Information Technology, QNB.

Further to the array of functionalities proposed by the system during the first phase, the new phase involving The Group offers a number of new features. Payment instructions made by the broker's clients such as cash payments, account transfers and SWIFT transfers to foreign and local banks can now automatically take place at the broker offices, replacing the traditional paper-based procedures. Management operations of investors are conducted in real-time at QNB and broker gateways. Moreover, payment confirmations and notifications of new deposits are sent in push mode from the bank to the broker.

With ProgressSoft's technology, The Group and Dlala stand to enjoy a leading-edge trading experience. Real-time execution of payment and deposit transactions and online query of investor accounts can now occur between registered brokers and QNB. This mitigates risks associated with the trading process and brings about significant time reductions and cut down expenses.

About QNB
QNB was established in 1964 as the country’s first Qatari-owned commercial bank. The ownership structure is split between the Government of Qatar (50%) and the private sector (50%). QNB has grown to become the largest bank in Qatar controlling assets representing approximately 50% of the total banking system. QNB has the largest distribution network in the country with 32 local branches and offices, two international branches in London and Paris and 70 ATM's.

About The Group
Founded in 1989, The Group was the first company to operate in financial brokerage in Qatar. In addition to being an authorized broker in the Doha Securities Market (DSM), The Group is also a member of the Arab Stock Markets Union and Arab Banks Union.

About ProgressSoft
Committed to a boundless aspiration towards innovation since its inception in 1989, ProgressSoft has been focusing its proficiency in imaging technology to deliver an impressive suite of intelligent solutions to the financial world. Today, ProgressSoft has consolidated its position as the new household name in the banking industry, claiming an active role in shaping the future of a technology-driven era of electronic financial services.