Nasdaq, Inc. (NASDAQ: NDAQ ) named Adena Friedman as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective Jan 1, 2017. Friedman – who is currently the president and chief operating officer of Nasdaq – will become the first woman to be at the helm of a major U.S. stock exchange. Friedman will succeed existing CEO of the exchange – Bob Greifeld – who will become chairman of the board. Borje Ekholm will step down from his position as chairman of Nasdaq on Dec 31, 2016, and will remain on the board of directors. Ekholm mentioned, "Naming Adena CEO represents the successful conclusion of a rigorous, multi-year succession planning process," further adding "Adena is uniquely qualified for this role. For nearly two decades she has steadily risen through the leadership ranks, beginning as a Nasdaq intern."