SEOUL March 9, 2021 Acuon Capital (“Acuon”), a South Korean consumer finance and leasing company owned by funds affiliated with Baring Private Equity Asia (“BPEA”), announced that it has issued its first-ever ESG bonds, worth KRW 140bn (US$ 127m). Acuon is the first Korean A0 rated capital company to issue an ESG bond in Korea, and the proceeds will be used to fund loans that have a positive ESG impact.

The bonds priced on average 18bps lower than other A0-rated capital companies, with longer dated maturities of between 3.25-3.5 years, and have attracted a wide range of quality investors. The proceeds will be used to invest in industries relating to environmental and social sustainability. Acuon will be required to measure and report on an ongoing basis as part of the ICMA (International Capital Market Association)’s Green Bond Principles of June 2018, Social Bond Principles of June 2020, and Sustainability Bond Guidelines of June 2018.

Commenting on the announcement, Han Chul Kim, Managing Director of BPEA said: “Since acquiring Acuon in 2019, we have worked closely with the management of the business to embed ESG in its strategy and operations, among other initiatives. This bond underpins the positive ESG impact Acuon continues to make and reflects BPEA’s commitment to helping businesses embrace ESG and digital innovation to create sustainable returns over the long term.”

“The bond offers a lower cost of funds than traditional issuances, which is a clear signal that investors believe the company’s rating could be higher. The strong uptake in this bond from high quality investors such as pension funds is testimony to Acuon’s excellent performance over the past 12 months, during which it has achieved significant growth in book value and new loan originations. The company’s risk management capabilities, continuing digitalization and diversification initiatives position it well for the future.”

In the 12 months ended December 2020 Acuon increased consolidated operating and net income by 21% and 11%, respectively, year on year.

The proceeds of the bond will be used to invest and lend to corporates, businesses, and projects in fields which include renewable energy and efficient technology, environmental pollution protection & management, environmentally-friendly transportation & infrastructure and sustainable water & natural resources.

Acuon has made significant progress in ESG adoption in recent years, establishing an ESG committee, setting up of ESG operating indices, developing Annual ESG Reports and linking to KPIs. The company recently received the Association Chairman Award from the Seoul Council on Social Welfare in recognition of its continuous contribution to the community.

The company is aiming to secure ISO14001: International standard of Environment Management System and ISO26000: International standard of Social Responsibility certifications by the end of the year.

For further information please contact:

Baring Private Equity Asia

Newgate Communications

Fergus Herries
fergus.herries@newgate.asia
+852 5970 3618

Acuon Capital

Investor Contact

Junseok Kim (Group Strategy Team)
junseok.kim@acuoncapital.com
+82 2 3467 4290