Nordic bourse owner and operator OMX has signed an agreement to supply trading technology to Agora-X, a new U.S.-based marketplace for over-the-counter commodity contracts.

According to the agreement, OMX will provide a complete hardware, software and operations solution to support Agora-X’s new electronic communications network (ECN). The new platform is scheduled to launch in mid-2008.

Agora-X is designed to help eligible institutional participants achieve strategic advantage in the rapidly growing OTC commodities market. While designed for a wide range of contract types, the ECN will initially target OTC option “look-alikes” in specific energy and agricultural commodities, as well as all commodity swaps.

“The growth of the overall commodities and commodities derivatives markets in combination with the increased role of financial institutions in these markets underscore the growing need to provide efficient intermediation of transactions for institutional players in these markets,” said Brent Weisenborn, CEO of Agora-X. “Currently no platform exists that encompasses the scope of Agora-X’s projected range of business activity. Agora-X’s compelling business model and best-of-breed technology, supplied by OMX, will create that platform and provide the liquidity necessary to fully expand this market segment.”

OMX will provide Agora-X with a complete technology solution including license, customization, implementation, hosting and ongoing monitoring, maintenance and support.