ING Investment Management Australia’s business provides a number of investment strategies and products directly to the Australian institutional and wholesale markets.

The business had EUR 24.8 billion (AUD 34.0 billion) in assets under management as of 31 March 2011, the majority of which is managed on behalf of ANZ’s wealth management business, OnePath.

In a letter announcing the sale, CEO Steven Billiet writes “the  transaction supports ING‘s objective to actively manage its capital and portfolio of businesses to ensure an attractive and coherent combination for the announced potential IPOs of its insurance and investment management activities.

“ING has previously said it plans to divest its insurance and investment management operations by the end of 2013 through a base case of two IPOs: a European-led IPO including the European and Asian insurance and investment management businesses, and a U.S.-focussed IPO.

“With a strong presence in Europe, the Americas, and nine Asian countries, ING Investment Management remains well-positioned in relation to the attractive Australian market.
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“We continue to manage an array of off-shore strategies in our various international investment centres, which are available to our clients domestically, regionally, and globally.
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“The transaction is subject to regulatory approval by the Dutch government and is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2011. ING IM will be working with UBS Global Asset Management to ensure a smooth transition for all clients, but there will be no changes to client relationships or the way funds are managed in the short-term.
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“We understand that you will likely have questions or need additional information and we remain committed to keeping you updated on developments. In the meantime, our focus remains on delivering superior investment returns and servicing the needs of our clients.”

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