KUALA LUMPUR (Feb 23): A Hong Kong businessman or more well known as a top poker player has taken a RM114 million ($37.3 million) bet on AirAsia Group Bhd.

Stanley Choi Chiu Fai took up a block of private placement of new AirAsia shares that raised his stake to 8.96% in the low-cost carrier via his private vehicle Positive Bloom Ltd, according to a filing with Bursa Malaysia yesterday.

SEE: AirAsia CEO Fernandes and chairman step aside as Airbus bribery allegations probed

He acquired 167.1 million AirAsia shares on Feb 18, raising his shareholding in the group to 332.5 million shares or an 8.96% stake.

Many are curious about this risk-taking businessman, who is willing to pump money into the ailing aviation industry.

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