Dexia announced today the signature of a share purchase agreement with New York Life Investments for the sale of Dexia Asset Management, after having entered into exclusive negotiations on 19 September 2013. The scope of the transaction includes 100% of Dexia’s shares in Dexia Asset Management and will be realized for a firm price of EUR 380 million.
Dexia has been forced by European authorities to sell its asset management arm as a condition for its bailout after the 2008 financial crisis.
Dexia Asset Management, a major player in asset management, with centers in Brussels, Paris, Luxembourg and Sydney, has built a significant presence in Europe and across international markets over the last 20 years. Dexia Asset Management has EUR 74 bn in assets under management (approximately $100 billion) , as of 31 July 2013; it provides investment solutions, to a diversified client base across 25 countries. Renowned for its specialist skills in fundamental and quantitative strategies, it has also earned a solid reputation in tailored asset allocation solutions. It is recognized as a front-runner in SRI (sustainable and responsible investments) and in regulated Alternative Investments.
A wholly owned subsidiary of New York Life Insurance Company, New York Life Investments is a leading investment management firm, with $388 billion in assets under management, as of 31 July 2013 –of which $173 billion are third party assets-. During the initial auction process, New York Life Investments was one of the final contenders. New York Life Investments constitutes a solid financial and operational partner, able to support Dexia Asset Management’s commercial development. Moreover, Dexia is confident in its capacities to achieve a successful completion of the transaction.
Dexia will release the impacts of the sale on its financial situation and its regulatory ratios when the transaction is closed. According to New York Life Investments, the transaction, which remains subject to the approval of regulatory authorities, is expected to close on or about December 31, 2013. The addition of Dexia Asset Management is expected to bring New York Life Investments’ total assets under management to more than $480 billion, and will likely propel its rankings into the top 25 global institutional money managers.
John Kim, chairman and chief executive officer, New York Life Investments, added: “The acquisition of Dexia Asset Management will provide our clients with access to the company’s highly-rated funds, strong European platform, and established Australian equities business. It builds upon the strong momentum we’ve achieved in our third-party global asset management business and positions us for further growth in key markets around the world.»