It’s business as usual for Chicago-based Harbor Capital Advisors, a manager of managers shop. At least that’s what the company line is after its parent, Netherlands-based Robeco, announced that it is being acquired by ORIX Corporation for €1.935 billion (about $2.6 billion).
Robeco’s current parent is Rabobank, which is also based in the Netherlands, Rabobank will retain a 9.99% ownership in Robeco, and will also receive about 2% of ORIX equity. Robeco was founded in 1929 and managed some $241 billion in assets under managements as of December 31, 2012.
ORIX is a global leasing and financial services company, based in Japan, with very limited involvement with investment management prior to the planned acquisition of Robeco, according to Harbor Capital. ORIX trades publicly on the New York and Tokyo Stock Exchanges.
Harbor Capital has been under Robeco’s ownership for almost 12 years. During Robeco's ownership, Harbor Capital Advisors has operated as an independent subsidiary of Robeco and will continue to do so. “ORIX and Robeco have indicated that they expect Harbor Capital Advisors to continue to operate without any changes in governance, people or business activities,” according to the firm.
In the interim, the trustees of Harbor Funds will perform due diligence on ORIX and approve new advisory and subadvisory agreements for Harbor Capital Advisors and Harbor Funds that will take effect if and when the deal is done.
Harbor Capital Advisors currently manages assets for Harbor Funds and for corporate pension plans in excess of $72 billion as of December 31, 2012.
