Interactive Brokers Launches Connections for Cross-Asset Trading Insights

Interactive Brokers Reinvents Investment Discovery with “Connections”

Interactive Brokers, a global leader in electronic trading, has debuted Connections—a next-generation analytics tool enabling traders to map complex relationships across asset classes and market themes within a unified platform. This innovation, announced in August 2025, is set to transform how investors research and act on trading opportunities by synthesizing stocks, ETFs, options, futures, bonds, and even forecast contracts tied to economic indicators—all from a single, intuitive interface.

Unlocking Cross-Asset Investment Analysis

Connections stands out by integrating data from more than 160 markets worldwide, offering a centralized hub for cross-asset investment analysis. Milan Galik, CEO of Interactive Brokers, underscores the platforms competitive edge: “Clients can access a vast universe of assets—from stocks and options to futures, currencies, and bonds—across global markets. Our decades of product expansion and geographic reach make this depth of insight possible. Connections helps users uncover opportunities unmatched by other platforms.”

The tool is engineered for both thematic investing and risk management. For example, investors can pinpoint indirect competitors in high-growth sectors like cloud computing, analyze forecast contracts linked to housing starts or interest rates, or explore niche industries such as carbon capture for related investment ideas. This global market access is further enriched by peer company comparisons, thematic trend data, and a suite of tradable instruments.

Thematic Investing Tools & Forecast Contracts Expand Reach

Interactive Brokers has also broadened its thematic investing tools, including Forecast Contracts, to European markets. These instruments, which allow traders to speculate on the outcome of specific financial, economic, or climate-related events, operate on a binary “yes-or-no” settlement model. For instance, a contract might ask, “Will the Federal Reserve raise rates at its next meeting?” and settle at $1.00 if “yes” or $0.00 if “no.” Prices fluctuate based on market probability, and traders can earn an interest-like incentive coupon on open positions, currently at an annualized rate of 3.83% APY.

Forecast Contracts are available in the U.S., Ireland, Canada, and Hong Kong, with nearly 24/6 trading access, ensuring investors can respond to global developments in real time. These tools are listed by ForecastEx LLC, a CFTC-regulated entity and wholly owned subsidiary of Interactive Brokers.

Cboe European Derivatives: Enhanced Access for IBKR Clients

In a related development, Interactive Brokers has become a direct participant in Cboe Europe Derivatives (CEDX), granting clients access to a full suite of pan-European equity index derivatives and equity options. Launched in 2021, CEDX now offers more than 300 options on companies from 14 European countries, consolidating liquidity and access for international investors.

Why Interactive Brokers Stands Out

With the debut of Connections, Interactive Brokers cements its reputation as an authoritative source for advanced investment research and analysis. The platforms discovery tools—including valuation comparisons, sentiment analysis, bond screening, and securities lending insights—are unrivaled in breadth and depth. By integrating thematic investing, cross-asset analytics, and global derivatives access, Interactive Brokers delivers actionable insights that cater to both retail and institutional investors.

A Platform Built on Experience and Trust

As a brokerage with decades of experience, Interactive Brokers continues to push the boundaries of whats possible in electronic trading. Their commitment to trustworthiness and expertise is evident in the robust, transparent architecture of their platform and the caliber of their regulated subsidiaries. For investors seeking actionable insights, global reach, and innovative tools, Interactive Brokers remains a top-tier choice—now amplified by the groundbreaking capabilities of Connections.