Lion Shipbrokers is among the many sale-and-purchase brokers that believe the Greek shipping conglomerate is behind the recent acquisition of the 309,700-dwt Synergy Queen (built 2010).

On Friday the firm, which is based in Athens, told clients that the vessel commanded approximately $78m. Observers claim the price tag is in line with the current market average.

They are also quick to point out that DHT Holdings nearly acquired the Synergy Queen for $79m earlier this year but note the deal failed to materialise and the owner tossed it back on the market.

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