Good times continue at the Big Board

The John Thain era has so far been a good one. Consider the NYSE's earnings for the third quarter: Stripping out some one-time fees, the exchange posted a profit of 43 cents per share, better by two cents than the analysts' average estimate. Revenue soared, rising 33 percent to $602.9 million. All this comes amid some tricky transitions, notably the switch to its new hybrid system. That system will likely boost trading volumes in the next few quarters, though the exact effect on revenue is unclear. One home run apparently has been the launch of electronically-traded options, which seems to have boosted revenue. Obviously, the market is tied to the whims of the larger equity markets. Things could turn quickly.

For more on the NYSE:
- Here's an update from the AP