Competitive position and environment Our results have been and will continue to be affected by many factors, including the level of trading activity in our markets, which during any period is significantly influenced by general market conditions, competition, market share and the pace of industry consolidation; broad trends in the brokerage and finance industry; price levels and price volatility; the number and financial health of companies listed on NYSE Euronext’s cash markets; changing technology in the financial services industry; and legislative and regulatory changes, among other factors. In particular, in recent years, the business environment has been characterized by increasing competition among global markets for trading volumes and listings; the globalization of exchanges, customers and competitors; market participants’ demand for speed, capacity and reliability, which requires continuing investment in technology; and increasing competition for market data revenues. The maintenance and growth of our revenues could also be impacted if we face increased pressure on pricing.
Uncertainty in the U.S. credit markets that commenced with the upheaval in 2008 continues to impact the economy. Equity market indices have experienced volatility and the market has remained volatile throughout 2012. Economic uncertainty in the European Union may also continue to negatively affect global financial markets. In addition, regulatory uncertainty is affecting our clients’ activities, business models and technology spending. While markets may improve, these factors have adversely affected our revenues and operating income and may negatively impact future growth
the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act was signed into law in July 2010. Although many of its provisions require the adoption of rules to implement, and it contains substantial ambiguities, many of which will not be resolved until regulations are adopted, such reforms could adversely affect our business or result in increased costs and the expenditure of significant resources
While we have not experienced reductions in our borrowing capacity, lenders in general have taken actions that