ASB Bank is one of the four largest banks in New Zealand, and it is often assumed that it is a New Zealand-owned bank. However, this is not the case.
ASB Bank is actually owned by Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA), which is one of the largest banks in Australia.
How did CBA acquire ASB Bank?
CBA acquired ASB Bank in 1989, when it purchased the New Zealand government’s 75% stake in the bank. CBA then acquired the remaining 25% of the bank’s shares from private shareholders in 2000.
Why did CBA acquire ASB Bank?
CBA acquired ASB Bank for a number of reasons, including:
- To expand its operations into New Zealand, which is a relatively large and wealthy market
- To gain access to ASB Bank’s customer base and its expertise in the New Zealand banking market
- To achieve synergies between CBA and ASB Bank, such as by reducing costs and improving operational efficiency
What are the benefits and drawbacks of ASB Bank being owned by CBA?
There are a number of benefits and drawbacks to ASB Bank being owned by CBA.
Benefits
- ASB Bank can access CBA’s resources and expertise, which can help it to improve its products and services and to compete more effectively in the New Zealand banking market.
- ASB Bank’s customers can benefit from CBA’s global network and its range of products and services.
Drawbacks
- Some people may be concerned about the fact that ASB Bank is owned by a foreign bank.
- There is a risk that CBA could make decisions that are not in the best interests of ASB Bank’s customers or New Zealand’s economy.
Conclusion
ASB Bank is a well-established and respected bank in New Zealand, and it has a strong track record of performance.
However, it is important to be aware that ASB Bank is owned by CBA, which is a foreign bank.