Orix Assumes Ownership of Osaka's Premier Shipowner

The recent acquisition of Santoku Senpaku, Osaka's foremost shipowner, by Japanese financial services company Orix Corporation, amounts to a significant $2 billion deal.

The transaction, projected to be completed by the end of the following month, entails the exchange of ownership for 67 ships, predominantly bulk carriers with the addition of some car carriers and container vessels.

Founded in 1972 by Masashi Taga, Santoku Senpaku experienced a transition in leadership last year with the passing of its founder at the age of 80. Junichi Taga, the son-in-law of Masashi Taga, has since taken on the responsibilities of leading the company.

Orix, possessing a fleet of 21 vessels, has played a significant role as a primary financial supporter for Santoku Senpaku throughout an extended period.

Orix boasts over five decades of involvement in the maritime industry, commencing its operations in Japan during the late 1960s by establishing a secondhand ship leasing venture. Over the years, the company has developed extensive proficiency in ship ownership, sales, brokerage, and global ship financing.