Originally posted by matthis Of course there is no consensus, because it is contradicted by the fact that Hoya never mentions its alleged ownership of Tokina or Kenko and it is also very unlikely from a business point of view. Why should Hoya integrate Pentax completely into its operations, but keep a second lensmaker as an affiliate? Why wouldn't they move the lens manufacturing to Vietnam, as they did with Pentax's? Why would they share only the optical design, but not the barrel design?
The false rumor that Hoya owns Tokina is nothing but a naive speculation and wishful thinking, based on a misinterpretation of the fact that Hoya licensed its brand for the Kenko filters and more misunderstandings by some journalists and forum writers, who use to cite each other in circular ways.
There is nothing circular in what I posted. Secondly, though I can't profess to a complete understanding of them, Japanese business culture cannot always be understood using "western" understandings of terms.
My bottom line is if somethings good for Hoya, Tokina will go along.
Conspiracy theory 1) Why are some Tokina lenses not offered for Pentax?. My answser, Hoya doesn't want them offered in Pentax mount.
Ownership can take many forms..........
Second thing, as to private... Tokina states that their "stockholder" is Kenko.....
See the pdf I posted.........