The New York Stock Exchange has revealed its plans to open a new software and product-development center in Northern Ireland, generating up to 400 jobs.

The NYSE wants to expand its outpost in Belfast with an aim to provide software services to money markets worldwide.

Martin McGuinness, deputy first minister, said, “It will also send a clear message to other potential investors when such a high profile institution decides to invest here.”

The recent plan of the NYSE has been hailed as an endorsement of the region’s economy.

Last week, the US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton paid a visit to Northerrn Ireland praised educated, highly skilled workforce that helped the country in escaping the recent recession.

The Northern Ireland government has promised to provide up to £9.6 million as financial aid to support NYSE Euronext move.