London Stock Exchange Group PLC today said the Qatar Investment Authority has acquired a 20% holding in the company.

The exchange said its board is very happy to welcome the QIA as a long-term investor in the company. The QIA and the LSE have a longstanding relationship based on plans to develop the Qatar marketplace and its potential for regional leadership in financial services.

Given the strength of Qatar’s economy and the development of Doha as a major financial centre, the LSE said there are significant opportunities to build further a relationship to the mutual benefit of both parties.

“The QIA has an impressive track record of making substantial long-term investments in growth companies, so we are delighted to see that it recognises the exchange’s unique strategic position and excellent prospects. We look forward with confidence to delivering a full agenda and our wider global strategy,” said Clara Furse, chief executive, LSE.

Also, Nasdaq and Borse Dubai announced that, as part of their proposed deal, Borse Dubai has agreed to purchase 28% of the outstanding share capital of London Stock Exchange Group PLC from Nasdaq for £14.14 a share. Nasdaq will retain about 3.5%.

Nasdaq CEO Bob Greifeld said that he was pleased his firm was able to divest its LSE stake to Borse Dubai. “We believe the share sale of our LSE stake is in the best interests of our shareholders by unlocking the value of these shares.”