HitecVision is pleased to announce Offshore Merchant Partners market entry and inaugurate investment. Offshore Merchant Partners has acquired 49 % of management company Scantank, including a portfolio of offshore projects
The transaction with Bjørgvin represents Offshore Merchant Partners first entry to the offshore asset market. Scantank is a reputed commercial manager for offshore and shipping projects, with management agreements for 12 offshore and shipping projects owning a total fleet of 26 offshore support, bulk and chemical vessels. Furthermore, Offshore Merchant Partners has purchased Bjørgvin AS equity stake in four offshore asset projects comprising minority holdings in 12 modern Anchor Handling Tug and Anchor Handling Tug Supply vessels on long term bareboat charters to solid counterparties. The transaction also includes transfer of experienced personnel from Bjørgvin to Offshore Merchant Partners.
Offshore Merchant Partners vision is to become the preferred commercial and alternative asset manager and transaction advisor in the intersection between the offshore oil and gas industry and financial markets. By virtue of being a sector specialist with a balance sheet, Offshore Merchant Partners complements existing service providers, primarily specialized investment entities, brokerage and advisory firms.
The Company is led by CEO Bengt Neteland. Prior to joining Offshore Merchant Partners, Mr. Neteland was member of Aker ASA’s investment team following up the company’s investments in the oil and gas sector. In addition, Mr. Neteland has extensive transactional and maritime experience from his career in the John Fredriksen sphere where he was involved in financing, M&A and spin-offs of major oil & gas service companies, including Seadrill Limited.