Nasdaq OMX Group and IntercontinentalExchange Inc. could possibly strike a partnership and talks between the U.S.-based exchange operators are at a “critical stage,” Fox Business Network reported Thursday.

The network said the Nasdaq Stock Market parent has hired Bank of America to look at possible deals in the wake of this week’s announced tie-up between larger rivals Deutsche Boerse AG and NYSE Euronext.

Representatives from Nasdaq OMX were not immediately available. A spokeswoman from ICE, the larger exchange, declined to comment. Bank of America also declined to comment.