George Economou is a common enough Greek name — an Internet search will turn up many of them.

But George Economou — chief executive of Nasdaq-listed DryShips and Ocean Rig, head of the shipping group that includes TMS Tankers, TMS Bulkers, TMS Cardiff Gas, Cardiff Marine and many other affiliates — is a one-off.

Whether it is shipping or offshore, art or other investments, Economou is never far from the headlines.

In