WRC rules it has no jurisdiction over XTX Markets’ discrimination complaint

The Workplace Relations Commission found it had no jurisdiction to investigate Xtx Markets Technologies Limited’s complaint against Aviva Investors Liquidity Funds Plc under the Equal Status Acts. XTX alleged that Aviva refused it access to investment funds because of the nationality or imputed nationality of its founder, co-CEO and ultimate beneficial owner. XTX argued that companies could bring claims under the Acts; Aviva said a company could not have a protected characteristic. The WRC found that a company could not have a protected characteristic under the Acts and lacked standing to bring the claim. The decision, dated 8 November 2023, found the WRC had no jurisdiction; the merits were not decided.