WeLab Secures $260M in Financing from Citigroup to Expand Digital Banking Portfolio
In Brief
Citibank allocates $260 million in asset financing to Hong Kong’s WeLab Virtual Bank.
Hong Kong’s online lending platform WeLab, recently secured a asset financing deal worth $260 million from Citigroup. While both entities remain tight-lipped about the transaction details, sources close to the fimes have hinted at Citigroup playing the sole senior underwriter’s role.
Speculations surrounding this deal aren’t new, as reports from Foresight News last November alluded to a funding move that could potentially peg WeLab’s valuation close to $2 billion.
The Rise of Virtual Banking in Hong Kong
This move underscores the growing influence and trust in virtual banks. WeLab, a notable name in this domain, operates from the Hong Kong Cyberport and proudly stands as a founding member of the Hong Kong Web3.0 Association.
Global banking giants like Citigroup continue to recognize the potential in digital lending platforms like WeLab. The motivation for such deals goes beyond mere financial transactions. In the wake of successive rate hikes impacting the traditional loan growth, banks are now aiming to diversify their funding strategies and safeguard against credit risks.
The prevailing financial environment is encouraging companies to opt for borrowing against their high-quality assets. This approach stands in contrast to the more conventional route of issuing unsecured debt. It’s a win-win for banks as they can amass various debt forms, repackage them, and present these attractive investment options to their clientele.
WeLab’s Growing Footprint in Online Lending
WeLab’s recent performance provides some context to Citigroup’s interest. The firm’s loan growth this year has toppled even its pre-pandemic figures. Strategic partnerships with global corporations such as Tesla and Apple have significantly bolstered its position.
With a backing from prominent investors like Sequoia Capital and business magnate Li Ka-shing, WeLab boasts a staggering 37% YoY loan growth. Notably, its market dominance is evident, holding nearly 90% of Tesla’s car loan share in Hong Kong. Additionally, Apple trusts WeLab exclusively for its subscription program’s financial services in Asia.
The broader Asian credit landscape, however, paints a tumultuous picture. The unfolding crisis in China‘s credit sector, marked by events like the default of Country Garden Holdings Co. on its dollar bond and the ongoing struggles of China Evergrande Group, contrasts the success stories of firms like WeLab.
Yet, WeLab’s journey since its 2013 inception showcases its resilience and strategic prowess. Having disbursed loans worth more than $13 billion, its reach spans across Asia, serving over 60 million users and catering to 700+ enterprise customers scattered from Hong Kong and China to Indonesia and Malaysia.
Disclaimer
In line with the Trust Project guidelines, please note that the information provided on this page is not intended to be and should not be interpreted as legal, tax, investment, financial, or any other form of advice. It is important to only invest what you can afford to lose and to seek independent financial advice if you have any doubts. For further information, we suggest referring to the terms and conditions as well as the help and support pages provided by the issuer or advertiser. MetaversePost is committed to accurate, unbiased reporting, but market conditions are subject to change without notice.
About The Author
Nik is an accomplished analyst and writer at Metaverse Post, specializing in delivering cutting-edge insights into the fast-paced world of technology, with a particular emphasis on AI/ML, XR, VR, on-chain analytics, and blockchain development. His articles engage and inform a diverse audience, helping them stay ahead of the technological curve. Possessing a Master's degree in Economics and Management, Nik has a solid grasp of the nuances of the business world and its intersection with emergent technologies.
More articles
Nik is an accomplished analyst and writer at Metaverse Post, specializing in delivering cutting-edge insights into the fast-paced world of technology, with a particular emphasis on AI/ML, XR, VR, on-chain analytics, and blockchain development. His articles engage and inform a diverse audience, helping them stay ahead of the technological curve. Possessing a Master's degree in Economics and Management, Nik has a solid grasp of the nuances of the business world and its intersection with emergent technologies.
