USAA to sell controlling interest in real estate subsidiary

USAA has agreed to sell a controlling interest in USAA Real Estate (USAARE) to the current management of USAARE and a private investment group. USAA will retain a significant ownership stake in USAARE.

Len O’Donnell, president and CEO of USAARE, will continue to lead the business, and the company will remain the exclusive investment manager for USAA’s real estate portfolio.

“We remain as committed as ever to producing great results for USAA and its members,” said O’Donnell.  “This change enables us to provide an even greater level of service to our clients and partners as we strive to maximize performance for their portfolios. It creates a deeper and richer alignment between our clients, USAA and the management team, from which all will benefit immensely.”

The move continues to simplify USAA’s operating structure enabling it to better serve members through its core businesses of banking, auto, home and life insurance, and retirement products. The deal reduces many financial service regulatory requirements for USAARE and allows it to grow in a more profitable way.

“We believe both USAA and USAA Real Estate are best served by creating this strategic relationship and enabling the investment management business to operate more independently,” said Stuart Parker, USAA CEO. “We will continue to deliver on USAA’s mission to serve the financial needs of the military community with the quality, speed and service members expect and deserve.”

USAA expects minimal employee impact from the transaction. USAA Real Estate is planning to maintain its current workforce and will work with all parties to ensure a smooth transition.

The transaction is expected to close in early 2020, subject to certain regulatory and other customary approvals, conditions and consents.