HNA Group moves into New Zealand with NZ$660 million purchase of UDC Finance
Highly acquisitive Chinese conglomerate HNA Group has launched its first foray into New Zealand with the acquisition of asset financing business UDC Finance for NZ$660 million.
UDC is currently owned by ANZ New Zealand, a subsidiary of ANZ Bank.
“UDC’s highly diversified portfolio offers significant growth opportunities in Australasia and supports HNA Group’s disciplined approach to expand our core tourism, logistics and financial services businesses,” said Adam Tan, vice chairman and chief executive of HNA Group in a statement.
Japanese investment bank Nomura advised HNA Group on the deal and provided financing.
HNA Group evolved out of regional airline Hainan Airways to become a global conglomerate operating in the tourism, logistics and financial services sectors. Its financial arm contains businesses in the equipment leasing, insurance, and credit services.
“HNA is well placed to invest in specialist asset finance products and systems which will help UDC expand further in the future,” said ANZ New Zealand CEO David Hisco in a statement.