(VINnews) After speculation that has lasted months, it is now being reported that the new majority shareholder of El Al is a 26-year-old chareidi Jew, by the name of Eli Rozenberg.
The news, reported by Globes.com, came after El Al formally put their shares up on the public market on Wednesday.
Notably missing in the bidding process were Meir Gurvitz and David Sapir, who had previously expressed interest in purchasing the airline, leaving Rozenberg the sole bidder.
Rozenberg purchased 43% of the company’s shares, making him the controlling shareholder. The shares were reportedly purchased for approximately $100 million.
Eli Rozenberg is the son of New York businessman Kenny Rozenberg, the founder and CEO of Centers Health Care.
Eli had previously formed the Aviation Eagles Wings company while working towards purchasing the airline. In doing so, he famously recruited former US envoy to the Middle East Jason Greenblatt to serve as his adviser.
Delighted to join Aviation Eagles Wings as an advisor to acquire El Al & ensure a secure future.
We’re in an historical period for Israel & its national airline, with new opportunities for airlines to the UAE & points east.Israel needs & deserves a strong national airline.?? pic.twitter.com/z5OQigJ5Rj
— Jason D. Greenblatt (@GreenblattJD) September 4, 2020
