MSC has entered into a binding agreement to acquire a stake of approximately 50% in Italo – Nuovo Trasporto Viaggiatori S.p.A (Italo) from Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), an independent infrastructure investor, through its third flagship infrastructure fund (GIP III) and to establish a long-term strategic partnership for Italo’s development.
The other approximately 50% interest in Italo will continue to be owned by GIP, which will have joint governance with MSC, and by Allianz Group entities and funds managed by Allianz Capital Partners, and other co-investors.
Italo is one of Europe’s leading private high-speed rail operators. Since its launch in 2012, Italo has grown to operate a fleet of 51 energy efficient electric trains, connecting 51 cities across Italy and serving over 20 million passengers per year.
Diego Aponte, group president of MSC commented, “We strongly believe in the potential of Italo to further strengthen rail connectivity across Italy but also the Italian tourism market. Furthermore, today’s agreement also reflects our group’s goal of further developing sustainable modes of transport, for both passengers and cargo.”
