Hitachi Capital and the Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ (BTMU), a subsidiary of Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, agreed that 40% of the issued shares of the stock of NBL Co., held by BTMU, will be transferred to Hitachi Capital. Transfer of shares and delivery of payment are scheduled on October 31, 2011, subject to regulatory approval.

So far, Hitachi Capital and NBL have supported IT investment concerning business equipment and information-related equipment in small- and medium-sized enterprises by providing leases through vendors. Hitachi Capital positions its vendor leasing business as a priority core business.

Hitachi Capital and NBL have decided to form a capital alliance, aimed at both companies’ establishing the best vendor leasing business in Japan with respect to customer base, market share and product competitiveness by bringing together and using each other’s core competencies.

In the future, Hitachi Capital and NBL will develop and provide new business models for vendors who are important partners in the vendor lease business, which will contribute to the vendors’ sales promotion. In addition, Hitachi Capital and NBL will support introduction of IT and promotion of business efficiency in small- and medium-sized enterprises, etc. in Japan, through providing vendor leasing.

Furthermore, after acquisition of the relevant shares, Hitachi Capital intends to consider acquisition of all of NBL’s remaining issued shares by the end of fiscal year 2013.