The US stock market operator InterContinental Exchange (ICE) and transatlantic peer NYSE Euronext should soon unveil a tie-up, a source close to the deal told AFP on Thursday, confirming press reports earlier in the day.

The source, who asked to remain anonymous, said: "Talks are still being finalised but the announcement of a tie-up is close."

Media reports had raised the possibility of ICE buying NYSE Euronext, and trading in shares of the transatlantic group have been suspended in Paris.