Publishing group Pearson has confirmed that Interactive Data, in which it holds a majority stake, is reviewing "strategic alternatives" as speculation over a possible sale mounts.
Pearson acquired a stake of around 61% in Interactive data in 2000 which is now worth approximately $1.5 billion.
The publishing company issued a statement in response to a report in the Financial Times, which it owns, claiming potential buyers are being sounded out.
Says Pearson: "Following recent press reports, Pearson and Interactive Data Corporation are today confirming that the Board of Interactive Data is currently undertaking a preliminary review of strategic alternatives for the company."
The firms can "give no assurance on the potential outcome or timing of this review process, and do not intend to make any further statements unless and until it becomes appropriate to do so".
The Financial Times claims rival data providers McGraw-Hill and Thompson Reuters, as well as private equity groups, could be possible buyers.