Rising Stars

Firms To Watch: Corporate (including M&A)

Akin primarily advises investor side clients on structuring, position disclosures, and investments. The team also advises numerous insurance companies and hedge funds. Practice head Steven Franklin has expansive expertise in handling joint ventures and shareholder activism situations.
Led by Hank Lo, Stevenson, Wong & Co maintains a corporate finance focused practice which advises financial institutions, investment banks, and public and private companies on corporate restructuring and company formation. Lo is adept at advising clients on capital markets and M&A related issues.

Corporate (including M&A) in Hong Kong

Kirkland & Ellis

Kirkland & Ellis houses a broad team with deep experience in the full range of corporate transactional issues, regularly assisting both Hong Kong and US listed companies. In the past year, the group has handled debt financing matters, voluntary share buy-back offers, and privatisations. Joey Chau is particularly adept at advising on take-privates, often handling public M&A issues and share buybacks of listed companies. Nicholas Norris has longstanding expertise in acting for private equity investors and investment banks in buyouts and listings, whilst Jesse Sheley represents a wide range of clients, including SPACs and private equity firms, and advises on PIPEs, and leveraged buyouts. Peng Yu maintains a private equity focused practice, often advising on growth capital investments and divestitures within the healthcare, technology, and infrastructure sectors.

Practice head(s):

Pierre-Luc Arsenault; Joey Chau; David Patrick Eich; Paul Guan; Gary Li; Nicholas Norris; Jesse Sheley; Peng Yu; David Zhang


Testimonials

‘Expert knowledge, deep experience, commercial and solutions-focused.’

Key clients

JD Property Group Corporation


The audit committee of the board of directors of RISE Education


CICC


Alkegen


Voyager Innovations


Power Heritage Group


SciClone Pharmaceuticals (Holdings) Limited


PCCW


The special committee of the board of directors of LAIX Inc.


COFCO Beverages (CCBMH) Limited


EQONEX Limited


Bain Capital


L Catterton Asia Acquisition Corp.


Asia Innovations Group Limited


Poema Global Holdings Corp.


TH International Limited


Artisan Acquisition Corp.


Hypebeast Limited


Work highlights


  • Represented JD Property Group Corporation in its acquisition of a controlling interest in, and the related takeover of, China Logistics Property Holdings Co., Ltd.
  • Advised the audit committee of the board of directors of RISE Education on RISE Education’s merger with Dada Auto Inc. (NaaS), an operation and technology provider serving China’s electric vehicle charging market, pursuant to which NaaS shareholders will exchange all of the issued and outstanding share capital of NaaS for newly issued shares of RISE Education. The combined company has a market capitalization of approximately US$1.77 bn.
  • TH International Limited (Tims China), the master franchisee and operator of Tim Hortons coffee shops in China, on its business combination with Silver Crest Acquisition Corporation, a publicly-traded special purpose acquisition company. The transaction values the combined business at approximately US$1.4 bn.

Latham & Watkins LLP

The team at Latham & Watkins LLP is noted for its deep bench, exhibiting knowledge which spans the full gamut of corporate issues, the group assists a lucrative client base which notably includes Warburg Pincus Asia LLC, Tencent Holdings Limited, and Platinum Equity. The practice frequently handles M&A related matters concerning competitive auctions, carve-outs, and club deals. Simon Cooke heads the practice, and is known for his vast experience in advising on joint ventures, equity investments, and partial exits. Frank Sun handles both public and private M&A mandates, investments, and regularly advises buyer-led consortiums. Dividing her time between Hong Kong and Singapore, Amy Beckingham has significant expertise in public and private M&A as well as IPO exits.

Practice head(s):

Simon Cooke


Other key lawyers:

Frank Sun; Amy Beckingham


Key clients

Silicon Motion Technology Corporation


Trustar Capital (formerly CITIC Capital Partners)


Warburg Pincus Asia LLC


Tencent Holdings Limited


China Jinmao Holdings Group Limited


Binance Holdings Limited


Sinotrans Limited


Platinum Equity


The Carlyle Group


Bilibili


Linklaters

Leveraging its alliance with Zhao Sheng Law Firm, Linklaters is known for representing numerous Asian conglomerates and Chinese state-owned enterprises across the logistics, insurance, and healthcare sectors. Matthew Middleditch leads the team with his specialist knowledge of financial institutions, regularly advising on bancassurance arrangements, and both public and private M&A transactions spanning multiple jurisdictions. Seasoned private equity expert Betty Yap handles numerous matters for asset management companies and investment entities. Christopher Yip primarily focuses on the financial institution group and insurance sectors, often advising on private fundraising rounds and disposals. Roger Cheng joined the team in August 2023 from the Securities and Futures Commission, where he oversaw the takeovers team.

Practice head(s):

Matthew Middleditch


Other key lawyers:

Christopher Yip; Betty Yap; Xiaoxi Lin


Key clients

Citi


HSBC


The Bank of East Asia


FWD Group


COSCO Shipping Ports


CK Asset Group


CK Infrastructure Group


CK Hutchinson Group


Merrill Lynch (Asia Pacific) Limited


CIFI Holdings (Group) Co. Ltd.


Jardine Matheson


Glencore


DBS Bank Asia Capital Limited


Nestle


Baijiayun Limited


NWTN Inc.


Work highlights


  • Advised on the HK$16.4bn mandatory unconditional cash offers by BofA Securities on behalf of JD Property Group Corporation to acquire all the issued shares and all the outstanding convertible bonds of HK-listed China Logistics Property Holdings.
  • Advised JSH Venture Holdings, a subsidiary of Jardine Matheson, on the HK$1bn sale of its minority stake in HK-listed Greatview Aseptic Packaging Company Limited.
  • Advised the Bank of East Asia on the sale of its general insurance unit, Blue Cross (Asia-Pacific) Insurance Limited, and its interest in a joint venture carrying on healthcare services provider business, Blue Care JV (BVI) Holdings Limited, to AIA and the formation of a 15-year exclusive bancassurance partnership with Blue Cross for Hong Kong.

Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP

Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP houses an ‘impressive' team which is known for providing ‘fast, reliable, and sound' advice to a diverse client base of boards of directors, buyer groups, and financial institutions. The team regularly advises both Chinese and global companies from a variety of sectors, including TMT and consumer goods, with notable names being Lotus Technology, Innovent Biologics, Inc., and Axiata Group. Practice head Jonathan Stone assists clients across the APAC region with an array of transactional issues, including de-SPAC mergers and joint ventures. Kai Sun has broad knowledge spanning privatisations, pre-IPO investments, and divestments, while Shu Du is noted for her vast expertise in going-privates, spin-offs, and reverse mergers.

Practice head(s):

Paloma Wang; Jonathan Stone; Haiping Li; Peter Huang; Yuting Wu


Other key lawyers:

Shu Du


Testimonials

‘Knowledgeable and able to handle complex corporate matters. ’

‘The team is impressive. They are responsive and provide fast, reliable, and sound advice. They are able to balance commercial needs of the company and at the same time provide appropriate legal advice to protect the company.’

‘High efficiency on delivering the services to clients is the feature of Skadden HK office.’

Key clients

Axiata Group


Lotus Technology


ECARX Holdings, Inc.


Prenetics Group Limited


Bridgetown 2 Holdings Limited


Nio Inc.


Innovent Biologics, Inc.


Frontier Tower Associates Philippines Inc.


VSPO


Growatt Technology Co. Ltd.


PLBY Group, Inc.


The special committee of the board of directors of O2Micro International Limited


Northstar Advisors


The special committee of the board of directors of BlueCity Holdings Limited


Buyer group of LAIX


NaaS Technology Inc.


Hui Yu Xin American Corp.


The special committee of the board of directors of Bright Scholar Education Holdings Limited


Gravitas Education


PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia, Tbk


Bridgetown Holdings Limited


Work highlights


  • Advised Axiata Group Berhad (Malaysia) in Celcom Axiata Berhad’s (Malaysia) US$12 billion merger with Digi.com Berhad (Malaysia), a subsidiary of Telenor Asia Pte. Ltd. (Singapore).
  • Advised Lotus Technology, a pioneering luxury electric vehicle maker that operates under the iconic British brand, Lotus, in its business combination with L Catterton Asia Acquisition Corp., a special purpose acquisition company listed on Nasdaq, and affiliated with L Catterton.
  • Advised ECARX Holdings, Inc. (a Geely-backed mobility tech company) in its merger with COVA Acquisition Corp. at an enterprise value of US$3.8 billion.

Slaughter and May

In close collaboration with the Beijing office, the team at Slaughter and May handles a myriad of transactions across greater China. The group exhibits expertise across the full spectrum of corporate and M&A related issues, including voluntary conditional general cash offers and distribution partnerships. Peter Brien stepped down as practice head and is now a senior consultant at the firm, with Benita Yu now leading the practice. Yu has vast knowledge of issues facing PRC state-owned enterprises, investment banks, and international issuers. Lisa Chung has ample experience in financing transactions and joint ventures, often advising listed Hong Kong companies, while Clara Choi is particularly skilled at handling takeovers of Hong Kong banks and demergers. Chris McGaffin has since left Hong Kong to join the London team.

Practice head(s):

Benita Yu


Other key lawyers:

Peter Brien; Lisa Chung; Clara Choi; Vincent Chan; Justin Chan


Testimonials

‘Slaughter and May advocates a multi specialists approach. Our transactions can involve multiple disciplines and Slaughters would be able to adapt to our needs, without having to use completely different team members each time.’

Key clients

Alibaba Group Holding Limited


China Energy Investment Corporation Limited


China International Capital Corporation Hong Kong Securities Limited


China Power International Development Limited


China Power International Holding


Chinachem Group


CLP Holdings Ltd


FWD Group


Great River Smarter Logistics (Hong Kong) Limited


INEOS


MTR Corporation Limited


PCCW Limited


Standard Chartered


Swire Beverages Holdings Limited


Swire Properties Limited


Xiamen Port Holding Group Co., Ltd.


Work highlights


  • Advised INEOS on three joint ventures with SINOPEC for an aggregate value of US$7 bn, and its proposed 50:50 joint venture with SINOPEC in respect of the Tianjin Nangang Ethylene Project, which is currently under construction by SINOPEC.
  • Advised China Power International Development Limited on its acquisition of majority interests in 23 clean energy project companies from China Power (New Energy) and China Power International New Energy (each an indirect non-wholly owned subsidiary of State Power Investment Corporation (SPIC), an indirect controlling shareholder of China Power), for a total consideration of approximately RMB7.5 bn.
  • Advised the Swire group on multiple transactions, including Swire Beverages on its purchase of the entire equity interests in six of the beverage preparation and packaging subsidiaries of Coca-Cola Bottlers Manufacturing Holdings Limited in the Chinese Mainland as part of the restructuring of CCBMH; and its US$1.015 bn acquisition of the Coca-Cola bottling operations in Vietnam and Cambodia pursuant to the share purchase agreements with a subsidiary of Coca-Cola.

Baker McKenzie

Praised by clients for having ‘great synergy‘, Baker McKenzie leverages its international strength and collaboration with FenXun Partners to advise on PIPEs, divestments and strategic investments. Practice head Tracy Wut is rated as an M&A ‘expert' by clients, handling both private equity and M&A related issues, while Christina Lee co-leads the capital markets group, and frequently handles compliance related matters and privatisations. Dorothea Koo focuses on public M&A and takeovers, and has broad experience in corporate finance matters. Derek Poon has deep knowledge surrounding private equity issues, and often acts for investment banks and large corporations, and Robert Wright is particularly adept at assisting financial sponsors with co-investments and leveraged M&A.

Practice head(s):

Tracey Wut


Other key lawyers:

Christina Lee; Dorothea Koo; Derek Poon; Robert Wright


Testimonials

‘I have never before encountered a team so willing to truly work with its clients, rather than just for them. Robert Wright deserves particular mention – nothing is ever too hard for him.’

‘Commitment to innovation and long-term view on client relationship building. Very strong commitment and flexibility on commercial arrangements.’

‘Highly personable and responsive.’

Key clients

AllianzX


Aztiq


Casetify


CDPQ Private Equity Asia Pte Ltd.


Chong Hing Bank


China International Capital Corporation Hong Kong Securities Limited


CITIC Group Corporation


CMB International Capital Limited


Digital Bridge (formerly Digital Colony)


Gaw Capital


Hengxing Gold Holding Company Limited


Hysan Development Company Limited


Instacart


Johnson & Johnson


Media and Games plc


Ninjas in Pyjamas


One Equity Partners


Siam Commercial Bank


Sing Tao News Corporation Limited


Sino Biopharmaceutical Limited


Tencent Holdings Limited


Work highlights


  • Advised Coats Group plc on the acquisition of Texon, a manufacturer of high-performance sustainable materials for footwear, accessories and functional apparel, from Navis Capital Partners for USD 237 m.
  • Advised Aplite Holdings AB, the Swedish owner of Radisson Hotel Group (which is a consortium between Jinjiang Hotel Group and Sino-CEE Fund), on its sale of the franchise business, operations and intellectual property of Radisson Hotel Group Americas for approximately USD 675 m to Choice Hotel Group.

Clifford Chance

Clifford Chance’s team exhibits expertise in a variety of matters, including inbound and outbound M&A within China, multijurisdictional transactions, and both public and private M&A. Practice head Andrew Crook assists clients across a broad range of sectors, including energy, education, and technology. Emma Davies leads the healthcare and life sciences group, advising a broad range of international clients on corporate restructuring. Virginia Lee handles an array of issues, including equity fundraisings and pre-IPO investments, and is a committee member of the SFC’s Share Registrars’ Disciplinary Committee. The team welcomed Alex Bidlake who joined from Linklaters in August 2023.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Crook; Terence Foo


Other key lawyers:

Bryan Koo; Emma Davies; Virginia Lee; Alex Bidlake


Key clients

China Three Gorges


Pfizer


Sanofi


Citi


Henkel


Home Credit


Carrefour


Tencent


JCHX Mining


State Grid


Work highlights


  • Advised Home Credit on the sale of its Philippines and Indonesian operations to consortium of Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group affiliates for €615 m.
  • Advised Carrefour on sale of majority stake in Carrefour Taiwan to local partner Uni-President Enterprise Corp at an enterprise value of EUR 2 bn.
  • Advised China Three Gorges Spain on its acquisition of a 619MW portfolio of photovoltaic projects in Spain from Nexwell Power and its strategic partner Ibox Energy, both units of Nexwell Group. The portfolio comprises 27 solar PV plants mainly located in the south of Spain, at different stages of development: operating, under construction and in advanced development.

Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP

The team at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP represents both Chinese state-owned and non-state-owned corporates in mandates across the US, Europe, and Asia. The group is particularly adept at handling strategic private equity issues, such as fund formation and investments, and notably acts for Alibaba Group Holding Limited, Blackstone Inc., and PAG. Ian Ho leads the team, having extensive expertise in advising private equity firms, and public and private corporations on investments and M&A. Jonathan Hwang maintains a real estate focused practice, primarily assisting clients with disposals and joint ventures concerning commercial properties, malls, and retail investments.

Practice head(s):

Ian Ho; Yang Wang; Jin Hyuk Park; Jonathan Hwang; Erik Ping Wang


Key clients

Affinity Equity Partners


Alibaba Group Holding Limited


Ant Group


Apax Partners


B.Grimm Capital Partners


Bank of America Merrill Lynch


Blackstone Inc. (and portfolio companies)


BEST Logistics


Cainiao Smart Logistics Network


CVC


GDS Holdings


GLP


Hillhouse Capital


J-Star


JOYY Inc.


J.P. Morgan


Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. (and portfolio companies)


Koubei Holding Limited


Kyoto Pacific Capital


Marelli (f/k/a Calsonic Kansei)


Morgan Stanley Private Equity


PAG


Primavera Capital Group


Qudian


Seatown (Temasek)


Sequoia Capital China Fund


Silver Lake Partners


SK Group


TAL Education


Warburg Pincus


XPeng Inc.


Yunfeng Fund


Work highlights


  • Advised 51job, Inc. in connection with its $4.3 bn going-private transaction.
  • Advised Primavera Capital Acquisition Corporation in its business combination transaction with Lanvin Group, with a combined pro forma equity value of up to US$1.7 bn.
  • Acted for Baring Private Equity Asia in its €6.8 bn sale to EQT.

Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP

Praised for their ‘wealth of experience', the team at Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP has broad experience in distressed M&A, spin-offs, and takeovers. Tim Gardner leads the team and is known for his deep knowledge of share repurchases, SPAC business combinations, and equity fundraisings. Sandy Lin utilises her ‘expertise and impressive track record' to advise sovereign wealth funds and Chinese financial sponsors on transactions across the TMT, manufacturing, and insurance sectors. Dual qualified in Hong Kong and the UK, Henry Ong is well-placed to advise financial sponsors and international investors on co-investments and corporate governance issues. Chris Welty has extensive expertise in public-to-private, and both leveraged and managed buyout transactions.

Practice head(s):

Tim Gardner


Other key lawyers:

Henry Ong; Chris Welty; Sandy Lin


Testimonials

‘Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP is our trusted adviser in the field of M&A. They have assisted us in dealing with many acquisitions. The teams work together and mobilize resources. They are efficient and excellent.’

‘Tim Gardner and Sandy Lin have extensive experience in the field of M&A, can provide high-quality legal services, and provide solutions which were considered in multiple dimensions.’

‘Working with Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP has been a remarkable experience from start to finish. In every single interaction, their team was responsive and thoughtful.’

‘They consistently go above and beyond to deliver complex projects across multiple time zones and jurisdictions.’

‘The two things value most about the team at Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP are the wealth of experience represented on the team, and the deep bench of global expertise at the firm that they drew on to bring excellence to every aspect of the project.’

‘Everyone I interacted with at Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP demonstrated unparalleled levels of professionalism, preparedness, and clarity of communication. Of all the professional services I’ve engaged with while running international organisations, these attributes made this engagement by far the most seamless and enjoyable.’

‘Sandy Lin stands out for her depth of international experience, effectiveness, and her talent in assembling and mobilising a brilliant and effective team. It’s rare to find partners like Sandy whose values are as clearly evident as her expertise and impressive track record.’

‘Their practice specialism is in acquisitions.’

Key clients

Alibaba Group


Audit and Risk Committee of Melco Resorts & Entertainment Limited


BPEA EQT (formerly Baring Private Equity Asia)


Citigroup Asia


CK Assets


Gores Guggenheim Inc.


Hillhouse Capital


Lazada Group


Co-founder and CEO of 51job, Inc.


MBK Partners


MGM Resorts


Work highlights


  • Represented MGM Resorts on its US$625 m capitalization of HK-listed MGM China’s subsidiary, MGM Grand Paradise, including structuring and shareholders’ arrangements with the significant shareholder and local Macau managing director, in connection with application and grant of the new concession.
  • Represented the Audit and Risk Committee of Melco Resorts & Entertainment Limited in substantial share repurchases by MRE from its controlling shareholder.
  • Represented Alibaba Group and its portfolio company, Lazada in a minority investment by Lazada, in Touch ’n Go, to enable deeper alignment and closer collaboration between Lazada and TNG Digital through various joint initiatives.

Allen & Overy

Allen & Overy houses a broad practice which collaborates with Lang Yue Law Firm to provide advice on cross-border energy deals, and navigate PRC regulations. Practice co-head Victor Ho handles both inbound and outbound transactions for PRC and international clients within the TMT sector. David Norman primarily handles transactions with cross-border elements, and strategic corporate projects. Iris Yeung, who often acts for listed companies and Chinese state-owned enterprises; and Gilbert Li, who works from both Sydney and Hong Kong and is known for her focus on the energy, fintech, and financial services sectors, joined the team from Linklaters in early 2023.

Practice head(s):

Victor Ho; Lina Lee; Jack Wang


Other key lawyers:

David Norman; Tess Fang; Gilbert Li


Key clients

Uni-president


Maersk


Kerogen Capital


State Grid Corporation of China


BMW


Starbucks


Wagas


Razer


DLJ China Logistics, Ltd.


Nativus


Work highlights


  • Advised Maersk on its cross-border acquisition of LF Logistics.
  • Advised Uni-president on its acquisition of a 60% majority stake in Carrefour Taiwan from Carrefour Nederland B.V. and Carrefour S.A.
  • Advised BMW on acquiring a majority stake in its Chinese automotive joint venture BMW Brilliance Automotive Ltd.

Ashurst

Praised for its ‘good industry knowledge', the team at Ashurst assists clients with numerous inbound and outbound transactions, joint ventures, and co-investments. Notable clients include Meta Platforms, Inc. and Optiver. Practice co-head Joshua Cole has deep knowledge in M&A issues across the Southeast Asian region, often assisting clients from a range of sectors, including financial services, telecoms, and energy. Co-head Frank Bi handles both public and private M&A, and exhibits particular expertise in advising Hong Kong listed companies on compliance, risk management, and securities issues. Chin Yeoh has extensive experience in private capital transactions and investments in the energy, mining, and infrastructure sectors, often advising high growth companies and capital investors.

Practice head(s):

Joshua Cole; Frank Bi


Other key lawyers:

Chin Yeoh


Testimonials

‘Good industry knowledge and good partner attention.’

‘Chin Yeoh’s team has good industry knowledge of towers deals in SE Asia in general, and Chin also puts in the effort personally to ensure that matters are under control.’

Key clients

Meta Platforms, Inc.


Walsin Lihwa Corporation


Lightstorm Telecom Connectivity Private Limited


Optiver


New Vision Capital Markets Limited


Dongfeng Motor Group Company Limited


Sojitz Corporation


Mitsui & Co., Ltd.


Partners Capital


Singlife Philippines Inc.


Acclime


Heitman Global Real Estate Holdings L.P.


Work highlights


  • Advised Walsin Lihwa on its joint venture with NKT HV Cables AB to construct the first subsea power cable factory in Taiwan.
  • Advised Dongfeng Motor Group Company Limited in relation to its acquisition of 29.9% equity interest in Dongfeng Automobile Co., Ltd. and the consequential possible voluntary partial cash offer.

Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP

The team at Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP is known for assisting a broad range of clients, including multinational corporations and emerging companies. Miranda So heads the Hong Kong practice alongside Yang Chu. So has vast experience in a broad range of matters, including foreign direct investments, joint ventures, and restructurings, while Chu primarily acts for investment banks and issuers in IPOs and debt programmes. Sam Kelso regularly advises investment funds and corporates on joint ventures and SPACs. Sam Kang has ample expertise in assisting private equity sponsors and corporates with venture and growth capital financing, and going-private transactions.

Practice head(s):

Miranda So; Yang Chu; Howard Zhang; Annie Yan


Other key lawyers:

Sam Kelso; Sam Kang


Deacons

Deacons is noted for handling a broad range of issues for both domestic and international listed companies, government bodies, and state-owned enterprises. Ronny Chow and Machiuanna Chu jointly lead the team, with Chow having longstanding expertise in takeovers and privatisations, while Chu has deep knowledge surrounding the issuance of virtual assets, and the establishment of digital businesses. Alexander Que has ample regulatory expertise, often advising banks and blue-chip companies on securities compliance issues and the Hong Kong Listing Rules. Maynard Leung assists clients across the consumer goods, healthcare, and real estate sectors with corporate reorganisations and secondary share offers.

Practice head(s):

Ronny Chow; Machiuanna Chu


Other key lawyers:

Maynard Leung; Howard Kong; Alexander Que


Testimonials

‘Deacons is able to advise on the various aspects of the M&A transactions in various sectors, and are very responsible and professional.’

‘Alex Que has in-depth knowledge on the rules and regulations in relation to the M&A practices. Besides his legal skill sets, Alex is very responsive and always enthusiastic, he is very patient and is able to explain a difficult legal concept in a simple way to the client.’

Key clients

Chinachem Group


China Shuifa Singyes Energy Holdings Limited


Chow Tai Fook Enterprises Limited


ICBC International Capital Limited


Lai Sun group


Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation


Viva Goods Holdings Limited


Xingda International Holdings Limited


Yip’s Chemical Holdings Limited


Work highlights


  • Advising Chow Tai Fook Enterprises Limited on its pre-conditional voluntary general cash offers (through its SPV) to acquire all the issued shares of NWS Holdings Limited and to cancel all the outstanding share options of NWS; and the related leveraged financing transactions for the Offers. The maximum amount of cash required to implement the Offers would be approximately HK$35,512 m.
  • Advised SMBC AC as to the Hong Kong law aspects of its acquisition of the entire equity interest in Goshawk Management Limited which holds all of the aircraft leasing businesses of Goshawk Aviation Limited (a 50:50 joint venture of NWS Holdings Limited and Chow Tai Fook Enterprises Limited) for a total consideration of US$1.6 bn.
  • Advised eSun, LSD (eSun’s holding company) and LSG (LSD’s holding company) on the merger of Media Asia Group Holdings Limited by eSun’s wholly-owned subsidiary through privatisation of Media Asia by way of a scheme of arrangement followed by the withdrawal of listing of Media Asia shares from GEM of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.

Gibson Dunn

Gibson Dunn houses a broad team with varied capabilities, spanning partnerships and joint ventures, divestitures, and restructurings. Dividing his time between Beijing and Hong Kong, Yi Zhang primarily focuses on advising PRC companies, international private equity funds, and banks. Qi Yue has vast knowledge regarding going-private transactions involving US-listed Chinese companies, in addition to both onshore and offshore joint ventures. After the research concluded, Graham Winter retied.

Other key lawyers:

Yi Zhang; Qi Yue; Zhiyao Li


Testimonials

‘Lawyers Yue Qi and Li Zhiyao provide companies with flexible solutions based on legal principles, and give corresponding pros and cons and final suggestions.’

Key clients

NetEase


General Electric


Kimberly-Clark Corporation


HKT


PCCW


Macquarie


Melco International Development


Melco Resorts & Entertainment


First Pacific Company


D. E. Shaw


JPMorgan


CPE Advisors


Phoenix New Media


Etisalat Group


Robert Bosch


AGIC Capital


Huamao Property Holdings


Special Committee of China Index Holdings Limited


Special Committee of Chindata Group Holdings


STACK Infrastructure


Huamao Property Holdings Ltd.


Work highlights


Herbert Smith Freehills

The practice at Herbert Smith Freehills regularly collaborates with the Shanghai team to assist clients across a variety of sectors, including TMT, energy, and education. Matt Emsley and Jason Sung jointly co-head the practice, with Emsley acting as the managing partner of China, and Sung leading the Asia-wide M&A practice. Tommy Tong is noted for his expertise in public M&A, often acting for investment banks and target entities in takeover transactions, supported by Jeremy Shen who predominantly handles transactions regulated by the Securities and Futures Commission and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.

Practice head(s):

Matt Emsley; Jason Sung


Other key lawyers:

Tommy Tong; Jeremy Shen


Key clients

Axiata Group Berhad


Shunfeng International Clean Energy Limited


Lagardère Travel Retail


Keppel Telecommunications & Transportation Limited


Ge Lian


Link Real Estate Investment Trust


Wearnes-StarChase Limited


GIC Private Ltd


Iron Mountain Group


Work highlights


  • Advised Blackstone on its acquisition of a majority stake in Emerson’s Climate Technologies business in a transaction valuing Climate Technologies at $14.0 bn.
  • Advised Hua Hong Semiconductor Limited on the establishment of a joint venture with other State-owned enterprises, including China Integrated Circuit Industry Investment Fund II and to an increase of the registered capital of its Wuxi subsidiary JV together with other shareholders including China Integrated Circuit Industry Investment Fund.
  • Advised Wearnes on its sale of the entire interest in StarChase Motorsports Limited to China MeiDong Auto Holdings Limited, a listed group principally engaged in automobile dealership in the PRC.

King & Wood Mallesons

Jointly led by Sheldon Tse and Hayden Flinn, the team at King & Wood Mallesons is adept at assisting clients with joint ventures, reorganisations, and exit agreements. Praised for the ‘depth' of their bench, the group acts for a diverse client base, notably including Chemchina Petrochemical Co., Ltd. and Link Real Estate Investment Trust. Tse is known for his broad expertise in PRC related regulatory issues, advising a number of fund management houses, and both state and privately owned enterprises. Flinn regularly handles issues afflicting companies in Singapore, Australia, China, and Hong Kong, with particular emphasis on the real estate and financial services sectors.

Practice head(s):

Sheldon Tse; Hayden Flinn


Other key lawyers:

Gary Lock


Testimonials

‘Experienced in handling M&A transactions relating to Takeovers Code.’

‘Gary Lock is experienced, with good connections with regulators.’

‘Hayden Flinn provided outstanding advice over the years through many difficult cases. Completely supportive of clients. His frank advice is always appreciated. Support from Hayden and his team makes you feel they are your partner.’

Key clients

China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation


Jiangxi State-owned Capital Operation Holding Group Co., Ltd.


Xiamen C&D Inc.


Chemchina Petrochemical Co., Ltd.


Link Real Estate Investment Trust


Shenzhen Special Economic Zone Construction and Development Group Co., Ltd.


SAIC Motor Corporation Ltd.


Regina Miracle International (Holdings) Limited


ChemPartner PharmaTech Co., Ltd.


Henan Railway Construction Investment Group Co., Ltd


Work highlights


  • Advised China Petroleum and Chemical Corporation and INEOS Limited on three joint venture agreements. The firm advised on a fourth joint venture in respect of the Tianjin Nangang Ethylene Project.
  • Advised Jiangxi State-owned Capital Operation Holding Group Co., Ltd. on its acquisition of Hong Kong listed Jiangxi Copper Corporation Limited, as part of the reorganisation of Jiangxi Copper Corporation Limited due to the strategic plan of the Jiangxi Provincial Government. Total assets as of 30 September 2022 amounted to approximately USD 25.28 bn.
  • Advised Xiamen C&D on its approximately USD938 m (RMB6.3 bn) acquisition of approximately 29.95% of the total issued share capital of Hong Kong listed Red Star Macalline Group Corporation Ltd. from Red Star Macalline Holding Group Company Limited.

Mayer Brown

Mayer Brown handles a broad array of matters for clients, including recapitalisations, asset sales and purchases, and competition clearance for transactions. Hannah Ha leads the team with her longstanding expertise in advising global corporations, sovereign wealth funds, and Chinese companies within the pharmaceutical, aviation, and hospitality sectors. Mark Uhrynuk has broad expertise in private equity and ESG related matters, frequently dispensing advice on joint ventures, divestitures, and fund formation; and Jeckle Chiu often represents investment banks and corporates in matters concerning convertible securities, IPOs, and corporate finance issues.

Practice head(s):

Hannah Ha


Other key lawyers:

Mark Uhrynuk; Jeckle Chiu


Key clients

Cathay Pacific


Kerry Properties


HSBC


China Merchants Group


Dah Chong Hang


Syngenta


Sun Hung Kai


Merlin Entertainments Group


CapitaLand / Ascott


Shui On Land Limited


Tsingtao Brewery Company Limited


Principal International (Asia) Limited


Lai Sun Group


Towngas


Veolia Environnement S.A.


GeoPost S.A.


Alpargatas S.A.


Siu Sing Investment Limited


Wang On Properties


Angelo, Gordon & Co


Principal Financial Group


Work highlights


  • Advised the founder and president of Hop Lun Group, a global fashion lingerie and swimwear business, on their sale of a controlling stake in the business to Platinum Equity.
  • Advised on the joint venture of Hong Kong developer Wang On Properties and New York-based Angelo, Gordon & Co and its acquisition of Pentahotel Hong Kong at a consideration of HK$2 bn.
  • Represented Sun Hung Kai & Co. Limited, a Hong Kong-listed alternative investment financial services institution, with its Series B investment into Sygnum Bank AG.

Morrison Foerster

Morrison Foerster’s ‘dedicated' practice handles a broad range of transactional issues within the technology sector, in addition to e-commerce, biotech, and online gaming. Thomas Chou is particularly active on transactions within the TMT and life sciences spaces, while Marcia Ellis maintains a private equity focused practice and regularly assists SPACs. Maureen Ho has broad experience in leveraged buy-outs, joint ventures, and bolt-on acquisitions. Vivian Yiu frequently acts for both state owned and private Chinese enterprises in matters involving mandatory cash offers.

Practice head(s):

Thomas Chou; Marcia Ellis; Maureen Ho; Paul McKenzie; Chuan Sun; Vivian Yiu


Testimonials

‘They work really hard when dealing with different timezones. Have a good understanding of that are the key issues and able to help negotiate with different parties. Very professional throughout the process.’

‘Professional. Dedicated. Always available and very tactful in dealing with complex issues. Thomas Chou is a great leader.’

Key clients

Alibaba Group


Arm Limited


GLP


Jamieson Wellness


Softbank


Softbank Vision Fund


Silver Crest


Work highlights


  • Advised SoftBank Group Corp. and SoftBank Vision Fund on their acquisition of a substantial interest in Arm China, as a necessary step enabling the planned listing of Arm Limited.
  • Advised Alibaba Group Holding Limited in the renegotiation and amendment of various agreements between AGH and Ant Group Co., Ltd. related to AGH’s acquisition of a 33% stake in Ant, China’s leading financial services and technology company.
  • Advised Amperex Technology Limited in its RMB14 bn joint ventures for mid-size battery cells and packs and US$1.5 bn technology cross-license arrangement with Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited.

Norton Rose Fulbright

Norton Rose Fulbright’s team handles a myriad of issues relating to energy transition and fintech. The team notably advises HSBC, CrowdOut Capital, and Gaw Capital Partners. Practice head Psyche Tai has expansive expertise in advising PRC and Hong Kong companies on convertibles, schemes of arrangement, and joint ventures. Rachel Chan is particularly adept at handling auction sales and public takeovers, while Peggy Wang regularly assists financial sponsors, and public and private companies on structured investments. James Parker left the practice to join the London team in early 2023, and Charles Bremner has since joined from the London team, contributing his expertise in cross-border M&A within the real estate, transport, and infrastructure sectors.

Practice head(s):

Psyche Tai


Other key lawyers:

James Parker; Rachel Chan; Peggy Wang


Key clients

Gaw Capital Partners


HSBC


Kerry Logistics


ProLogium


Tyme


CrowdOut Capital


Work highlights


  • Advised ProLogium Technology on a series of strategic investments by investors including Mercedes-Benz, POSCO, VinFast and CRFM.
  • Advised Gaw Capital Partners, a real estate private equity firm, on a series of investments, including series A round financing for Blackpanda Group, investment in Maoneng’s Australian battery energy storage system platform and Series C round financing for 99 Group.
  • Advised HSBC in its capacity as financial adviser to China Mengniu Dairy in connection with its pre-conditional privatisation of Yashili International by way of scheme of arrangement.

Reed Smith Richards Butler LLP

Noted for their ‘extensive' experience, the group at Reed Smith Richards Butler LLP is well-placed to provide ‘comprehensive and well-rounded' advice through collaboration with the Beijing and Shanghai practices. The team regularly receives instructions from both private and state-owned PRC enterprises, and regularly assists clients with transactional issues governed by the Hong Kong Takeovers Code. Team head Denise Jong has substantial knowledge spanning the negotiation of public company takeovers and corporate restructurings. Praised by clients for his ‘experience and analytical skills’, Anthony Woo specialises in corporate finance matters, including IPOs, investments, and M&A. Vivian Ji joined the team from Jeffrey Mak Law Firm in February 2023.

Practice head(s):

Denise Jong


Other key lawyers:

Anthony Woo; Eric Lin; Vivian Ji


Testimonials

‘Reed Smith’s strength lies in their diverse expertise across various legal areas. With the extensive experience, they are well-equipped to handle a wide range of legal matters. This breadth of knowledge allows them to provide comprehensive and well-rounded solutions. ‘

‘We appreciate Anthony Woo’s support all the time. He not only listens attentively to our needs, but also goes beyond to provide guidance and assistance. We have seen how he can find the right solutions for us. Because of his experience and analytical skills, he can quickly understand complicated situations and suggest the best way forward. He has proven his ability to navigate legal challenges and achieve favourable outcomes for us.’

‘The corporate law team is very professional The whole team is very dedicated and provides professional advice to us.’

Shearman & Sterling

Shearman & Sterling’s team handles a broad array of issues for clients across a variety of sectors, including TMT, energy and resources, and manufacturing. Co-head Li Chen works from both Beijing and Hong Kong, and primarily focuses on transactional matters within the manufacturing and infrastructure sectors; while co-head Lorna Chen leads on the asset management and investment funds side, regularly advising on co-investment projects and joint ventures. Dividing his time between Hong Kong, Beijing, and Shanghai, Sean Wang assists financial institutions and SOEs, with energy and project financing being his areas of expertise. Wanda Woo is noted for her vast regulatory expertise, with her clientele including investment banks and Hong Kong listed companies.

Practice head(s):

Li Chen; Lorna Chen; Sean Wang


Other key lawyers:

Wanda Woo


Key clients

China National Petroleum Company International


China National Petroleum Corporation Exploration & Development Company


Investcorp


invoX Pharma Limited


KME SE


PTT Public Company Limited


Work highlights


  • Advised KME SE on the sale of its equity interest in the Hong Kong-based joint venture with Golden Dragon Precise Copper Tube Group Inc., a precise copper tube manufacturer based in China.
  • Advised CNODC/CNPC International in relation to the JV formation, assets acquisition and restructuring of the Rumaila oil field project in Iraq opposite BP plc.
  • Advised invoX Pharma Limited, a subsidiary of HKEX-listed Sino Biopharmaceutical Limited, on invoX’s acquisition of all issued and outstanding shares of the common stock of F-star Therapeutics, Inc. for an aggregate consideration of approximately USD 161 m.

White & Case

The team at White & Case acts for a varied client roster, which notably includes Cathay Industries, Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, and Petronas. In the past year, the group has experienced an increase in activity surrounding investments by global sponsors into energy transition and digital infrastructure. ‘Extraordinary strategist’ Christopher Kelly heads the practice, and is known for his longstanding expertise in transactions within the energy transition space across Asia, regularly assisting infrastructure funds with M&A. Daniel Yeh leads on the private equity side, advising sovereign wealth funds and manufacturing companies on co-investments and M&A, and Paul Tang predominantly advises private equity-backed portfolios and sponsors on investments in China, in addition to overseas acquisitions. Peiwen Chan has since left the team to join the Singapore practice.

Practice head(s):

Christopher Kelly


Other key lawyers:

Daniel Yeh; Paul Tang; Steve Sha; Shifeng Ni


Testimonials

‘Steve Sha and his team are efficient and very commercial.’

‘Partners have deep cross-border experience in Asia but also a global network when required.’

‘The team are very customer focused. They take time to understand the client’s perspective. I appreciate that their advice is delivered timely, and always with the client’s specific needs and position in mind.’

‘The White & Case Team ensures that the clients have access to the best industry expertise available in their global network. As a client, I always feel assured that I have the best minds and experts availed to advise me each step of the way.’

‘Christopher Kelly is brilliant. Extraordinary strategist in his approach, provides impeccable delivery of advice, and is a stand-out negotiator. An experienced lawyer who knows how best to drive a transaction to deliver results. Chris’ commitment is very much valued.’

Key clients

Cathay Industries


China Molybdenum Company


Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners


DigitalBridge Group, Inc


Flow Digital


GIC Private Limited


Hopu Investment Management Co. Ltd.


Macquarie Capital (Singapore) Pte. Limited


Magnum Opus Acquisition Limited


Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas)


WizRocket, Inc.


Work highlights


  • Advised Magnum Opus Acquisition Limited on its US$2.5 bn merger agreement with Asia Innovations Group Limited.
  • Advised CMOC Group (formerly China Molybdenum Co., Ltd.) on the sale of 25% equity interest in KFM Holding Limited.
  • Advised Cathay Industries in its carve-out acquisition of Venator’s iron oxide business.

Debevoise & Plimpton LLP

The team at Debevoise & Plimpton LLP assists a diverse client base, consisting of private equity firms, financial institutions, and insurance companies, such as Sun Life, True North, and AIA. With William Chua having left the team in May 2023, Edwin Northover has taken over as practice head, utilising his vast knowledge of joint ventures and distribution agreements to advise on major players in the insurance industry. Northover is also ‘second to none’ when advising on bancassurance agreements.

Practice head(s):

Edwin Northover


Other key lawyers:

Jan Buschmann; Wen-Wei Lai


Testimonials

‘Ed Northover is the recognised expert in the area of bancassurance distribution arrangements. His industry knowledge and negotiation skills are second to none.’

‘Great technical knowledge.’

‘The team knows how the client works and how to address difficult issues.’

Key clients

AIA


Sun Life


True North


Brunei Investment Agency


Amplify Health


Work highlights


  • Advised AIA on the establishment of a pan-Asian health insurtech business and joint venture with Discovery Group.
  • Advised True North on its acquisition of a significant minority stake in Accion Group Holdings, Inc, a Pittsburg-based digital and innovation engineering company, from TA Associates and other shareholders.
  • Advised AIA on the purchase of Blue Cross, a Hong Kong general insurer, and an associated 15-year bancassurance agreement between Blue Cross and BEA Bank.

Eversheds Sutherland

The team at Eversheds Sutherland handles the full spectrum of corporate issues for a wide variety of clients, notably including China Southern Power Grid International, BioNTech, and Busy Bees. Practice co-head Charles Butcher is known for his broad knowledge of strategic M&A projects, with particular emphasis on joint ventures, reorganisations, and leveraged buyouts. Co-head Dickson Ng has expansive expertise in handling public and private M&A, primarily focusing on assisting with outbound transactions concerning public listed companies. Stephen Mok acts for both state and privately owned enterprises and investment banks in restructurings and listing on the Hong Kong stock exchange, whilst Roderick Lai primarily handles private equity backed deals,

Practice head(s):

Charles Butcher; Dickson Ng; Jack Cai; Jay Ze


Other key lawyers:

Stephen Mok; Roderick Lai


Key clients

Baird Capital


BioNTech


Busy Bees


CGN Energy International


China Southern Power Grid International


EDOTCO Group


EuroEyes


G4S


Helly Hansen


JAS Worldwide


New World Group


NWS Holdings Limited


Specsavers


SSW Partners


Store Friendly Self Storage Group


Swire Group


TOM Group Limited


TE Connectivity Corporation


Vega Global


VFS Global


Work highlights


  • Advising SSW Partners on the Chinese and Korean aspects of the sale of Veoneer’s global active safety business to Magna International Inc. for US$1.525bn.
  • Advising Store Friendly Self Storage Group on its joint ventures with Partners Group in Singapore and Blackstone in Hong Kong for the establishment of large-scale self-storage platforms.
  • Advising China Southern Power Grid International (HK) Co., Limited on the investment, design, construction, operation, maintenance and financing of the first high voltage direct current transmission system and a transmission project in Chile.

Fangda Partners

The team at Fangda Partners is known for its deep PRC law expertise, and handles a variety of mandates for clients in the TMT, logistics, healthcare, and education sectors. Known for handling both public and private M&A, the group represents numerous targets and financial investors. Colin Law leads the team with his broad experience in advising bulge bracket investment banks on public takeovers and privatizations. Raymond Chan contributes his knowledge of venture capital and cross-border M&A issues, while Xiaotong Jia primarily focuses on private equity and investment matters, regularly representing consortiums and funds.

Practice head(s):

Colin Law


Other key lawyers:

Raymond Chan; Xiaotong Jia


Testimonials

‘Their standout qualities are good understanding of client’s requirements, comprehensive business knowledge, high quality service, and timely feedback.’

‘We mainly work with Colin Law and his team. They have an excellent understanding of our business and provide great service.’

Key clients

Apollo Future Mobility Group Limited


Suez and Suez (Asia) Limited


Softbank Vision Fund


Primavera Capital


IDG Capital


Boyu Capital


China Resources Property


Jinxin Fertility Group Limited


Ever Harmonic Global Limited


China State-Owned Enterprise Mixed Ownership Reform Fund Co., Ltd.


OrbiMed Partners


Softbank Vision Fund


PAG


Brilliance International Holding Limited


CTG Development Corporation Limited


Kingsoft Cloud Holdings Limited


Societe Generale


Work highlights


  • Advised Apollo Future Mobility Group Limited in its US$2 bn reverse takeover of the EV business owned and operated by WM Motor Holdings Limited
  • Advised Thematic Bridge Investment Pte. Ltd., an investment vehicle of Boyu Group, LLC, on its voluntary conditional general cash offer for all of the offer shares in Jinke Smart Services Group Co., Ltd., one of China’s property management services companies listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
  • Advised China Huarong International Holdings Limited, China Huarong (Macau) International Company Limited and Huarong International Financial Holdings Limited in their proposed disposal of 32 portfolios of distressed assets.

Milbank

Milbank’s ‘deeply experienced' team handles a broad range of private equity driven transactions across the Southeast Asian region, with an emphasis on the healthcare, e-commerce, and leisure and lifestyle product sectors. ‘Highly skilled advisor' Andrew Whan co-leads the team alongside Neeraj Budhwani. Whan primarily focuses on transactions within the telecoms sector, and often acts for private equity funds and corporates in take-privates; and Budhwani handles numerous leveraged buyouts and public to private transactional matters, with emphasis on the financial services sector. James Grandolfo is noted for having broad knowledge spanning SPAC mergers, and de-SPAC issues within the consumer goods and banking sectors. Dual qualified in the US and the Philippines, Paul Pery assists clients with issues relating to US securities law, with a strong focus on the oil and gas sector within the Philippines, Singapore, and India.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Whan; Neeraj Budhwani


Other key lawyers:

James Grandolfo; Paul Pery; James Feng


Testimonials

‘A team of deeply experienced practitioners who go way beyond providing simple legal advice.’

‘Andrew Whan is a highly skilled adviser and is great to work with. Provides advice in clear, simple terms even when dealing with complex matters.’

‘The team has unparalleled technical ability and experience across all sectors in the market. They give you every confidence that your transaction will be handled quickly and efficiently with them at the helm.’

‘Neeraj Budhwani and Andrew Whan are exceptional operators in this field. Again, their technical abilities, market experience and client service are excellent.’

Key clients

PLDT Inc.


Globe Telecom Inc.


Unispace


Union Bank of Philippines


Galaxy Entertainment Group Limited


Hong Kong Broadband Limited


Goldman Sachs


Green Transition Partners Limited


Trustroot Internet Private Limited


CVC Capital Partners


Baring Private Equity Asia


PAG Capital


Okada Manila International, Inc.


AGP International Holdings Ltd


Maso Capital Partners Limited


Nexus Point Capital


Work highlights


  • Advised telecommunications provider PLDT Inc. and its subsidiaries Smart Communications, Inc. and Digitel Mobile Phils., Inc. on the PHP9.2 bn sale of 650 telecom towers and related passive infrastructure to Unity Digital Infrastructure Inc., a joint venture between Aboitiz InfraCapital, Inc. and global private markets firm Partners Group.
  • Advised GTP Holdings Limited on its sale of Green Transition Partners Limited, an asset manager dedicated to energy transition infrastructure in Asia, to HSBC Global Asset Management (Hong Kong) Limited.
  • Advised Globe Telecom Inc. in connection with a joint venture partnership with ST Telemedia Global Data Centres and Ayala Corporation for the development, construction and operation of data centre projects in the Philippines.

Morgan, Lewis & Bockius

Jointly led by the ‘exceptional’ Maurice Hoo and Edwin Luk, the team at Morgan, Lewis & Bockius leverages its regional network, regularly collaborating with its Shanghai and Beijing offices to assist a varied client roster of global corporations, sovereign wealth funds, and emerging companies. The group boasts strength across a number of industries, including energy, life sciences, and fintech. Hoo is known for his vast expertise in advising strategic and private equity investors on restructurings, divestments, and cross-border M&A, while Luk exhibits deep knowledge of securities regulations.

Practice head(s):

Maurice Hoo; Edwin Luk; Ning Zhang; Alex Wang


Other key lawyers:

Colin Au


Testimonials

‘Definitely it’s the calibre of the people in the firm and the confidence they give to clients.’

‘Maurice Hoo and Colin Au are exceptional professionals who are always responsive, insightful and comprehensive in providing advice and solutions.’

‘Diverse, great, strong, diligent, focused and supporting in every way.’

Key clients

Sequoia Capital


GIC


Silk Road Fund


NIO Capital


Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation


J.S. Held


TAIT Towers


Warburg Pincus


Boehringer Ingelheim


Work highlights


Dechert

Dechert’s team acts for a variety of clients, including financial institutions, and energy and logistics companies. The group handles the full gamut of issues, such as de-listings and de-authorisations, and R&E projects. Stephen Chan has a great deal of experience in joint venture formations, proposed IPOs, and investments. Dividing his time between Hong Kong and Beijing, Yang Wang advises a number of corporations, investment firms, and private equity funds on distressed M&A.

Practice head(s):

Stephen Chan; Yang Wang


Testimonials

‘They have a great understanding of the industry and provide actionable advice. They are efficient and are very business oriented.’

‘They are very responsive to client needs and their advice is not only legally based but is very business centric.’

Key clients

Yue Xiu Enterprises (Holdings) Limited


Yuexiu Transport Infrastructure Limited


Yuexiu Property


Yuexiu Services


SML Group


China Financial Services


MIE Holdings Corporation


Nocturne Acquisition


TAG Holdings Limited


Work highlights


  • Advised TAG Holdings Limited (formerly known as the Convoy Group) on US$555 m cross-border SPAC merger with AGBA Acquisition Limited, a BVI-incorporated, Hong Kong-based, Nasdaq-listed SPAC company.
  • Advised Nocturne Acquisition, a Nasdaq-listed SPAC company backed by a Hong Kong-based investment firm, in signing a definitive business combination with Cognos Therapeutics, a medical technology firm.
  • Advised Yuexiu Transport as its Hong Kong counsel in relation to the reconstruction and expansion project of its GNSR Expressway.

K&L Gates

Praised for their ‘good expertise and knowledge’, the team at K&L Gates acts for a variety of clients, including start-ups, SOEs and venture backed companies. Working from both the Beijing and Hong Kong offices, practice head Frank Voon has a great deal of experience in assisting financial institutions and global funds on transactional issues across the energy, logistics, and pharmaceutical industries. Virginia Tam is commended for her deep knowledge surrounding joint ventures, capital markets exits, and pre-IPO investments. Amigo Xie is noted for his expertise in PRC law related issues concerning commercial arrangements, while William Ho, hailed as an ‘excellent lawyer all round’, regularly advises technology companies on capital raisings.

Practice head(s):

Frank Voon


Other key lawyers:

Virginia Tam; Amigo Xie; William Ho; Elsa Mak


Testimonials

‘Good expertise and knowledge about our industry, prompt response, great attention to detail.’

‘William Ho has in-depth expertise and knowledge, his responses are prompt, his advice is holistic, and his negotiation strategy takes into account the future plans of the firm.’

‘William Ho is an excellent lawyer all round, has a great mix of clients. Great technical knowledge and background, and is a thought leader in the fintech space.’

‘Excellent team, top quality work and consistently meets client’s needs and expectations.’

Key clients

Antalpha Holdings Limited


Aigens Holdings Inc.


CBX Limited


DIC Corporation


DiDi Chuxing


GP Industries Limited


Luye Pharma


Silicon Motion


Taiwan Liposome


Wolfspeed, Inc. (formerly known as Cree, Inc.)


Work highlights


  • Advised Silicon Motion Technology Corporation on entering into a US$3.8 bn cross-border take-private acquisition with MaxLinear, Inc., a California-based leading provider of radio frequency, analogue, digital, and mixed-signal integrated circuits.
  • Advised DIC Corporation in the highly complex acquisition of two chemicals manufacturers in the PRC through asset and equity structures.
  • Advised Wolfspeed, Inc. in connection with the sale of its global LED business and transfer of employees in 12 countries (Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, Korea, Japan, Malaysia, Russia, India, Germany, the U.K., France and Italy) to SMART Global Holdings, Inc.

O'Melveny

Praised by clients for their bench strength, the team at O'Melveny handles a variety of matters, including carve-outs, going-privates, and joint ventures. The group is known for acting in biopharma and biotech companies on inbound and outbound investments. ‘Outstanding' practice co-head Nima Amini acts as the managing partner of the Hong Kong office, in addition to advising on cross border transactions across Europe, the US, and the APAC region. Edwin Kwok regularly assists clients with securities offerings, regulated listings as notifiable transactions, and public takeovers.

Practice head(s):

Nima Amini; Edwin Kwok


Other key lawyers:

Nolan Shaw


Testimonials

‘The OMM team are outstanding. The firm has great bench strength is very responsive and very commercial.’

‘Nima Amini is an outstanding practitioner. He is very knowledgeable on key laws but importantly is very commercial, practical and a great communicator. He has assembled a great team around him, including Nolan Shaw who is a true young gun, and in whose hands we always feel safe. ’

‘Edwin Kwok is a great leader of the team.’

Key clients

Acotec Scientific


Lazada and Alibaba


China Vast


Go 1


Fang Holdings


ITCS Group


China Real Estate Limited


Global Infrastructure Solutions Inc.


111.com


Pharmaron Beijing Co., Limited


U.S. IOL, Inc.


Work highlights


  • Advised Acotec Scientific Holdings Limited (6669.HK) on the voluntary partial offer by Boston Scientific Group plc.
  • Advised Lazada, a subsidiary of Alibaba Group Holding, in connection with its US$375 m equity investment in PT ELANG ANDALAN NUSANTARA.
  • Advised China Vast Industrial Urban Development in its privatization by China Jinmao Holdings Group Limited and delisting from the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.

Paul Hastings LLP

Paul Hastings LLP houses a broad team which handles a myriad of transactions within the media, life sciences, and fintech sectors. The group represents numerous investment funds, technology companies, and state-owned entities. Raymond Li frequently assists inbound international investors into Hong Kong listed companies, and Chinese corporations, utilising his broad knowledge of joint ventures, whilst Fang Pei is known for her experience in advising on venture capital issues, real estate investments, and securities. Vivian Lam predominantly handles investments and international acquisitions, regularly advising financial institutions.

Practice head(s):

David Wang; Jia Yan; Raymond Li; Vivian Lam; Fang Pei


Key clients

COSCO Shipping


CDH Investments


Fosun International


Binance


WH Group


Bain Capital


GenScript Biotech Corporation


Probio Technology Limited


BeijingShouhuan


NewQuest Capital


Impro


Work highlights


  • Advised Sino-Ocean Group on the sale of its interest in Sino-Ocean Taikoo Li Chengdu to Swire Properties for a total consideration of US$800 m.
  • Advised MultiMetaVerse Inc. on the completion of its US$300 m business combination with Model Performance Acquisition Corp.
  • Advised GenScript Biotech, a US-based biotechnology company focused on gene synthesis technology, and its subsidiary Probio Technology, on Probio’s Series C financing with investments from Legend Capital, Highlight Capital, Hillhouse (Probio’s Series A investor) and other prominent institutional investors. The Series C financing raised approximately US$224 m.

Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison

Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison is known for its broad expertise in private equity driven transactions, with particular emphasis on investment activity within the biotech, education, food and beverage, and insurance sectors. Notable clients include Baring Private Equity Asia, KKR, and L Catterton Asia. Practice co-head Judie Ng Shortell is commended for her deep knowledge of spin-offs, equity investments, and take privates, and is often instructed by investment management firms and private equity funds. Having joined the team from Goodwin in October 2022, Bosco Yiu contributes his expansive experience in advising venture capital firms, sponsors, and corporations on M&A, IPOs and investments.

Practice head(s):

Judie Ng Shortell; Greg Liu; Bosco Yiu


Key clients

Baring Private Equity Asia


L Catterton Asia


KKR


Didi Global


Charltons

Charltons serves a broad client base, with notable names including Dah Sing Bank, Limited, Alliance Capital Partners Limited, and Wing On Company International Limited. Practice head and founding partner Julia Charlton is well known for representing domestic and international companies, sponsors, and controlling shareholders on cryptocurrency, securities issues, and funds law. Calvin Ho maintains a corporate finance focused practice, acting for societies and corporations in the mining, insurance, and biotech industries. Qualified in both Australia and Hong Kong, Clinton Morrow advises early stage investment managers on fund structuring issues concerning both hedge and private equity funds.

Practice head(s):

Julia Charlton


Other key lawyers:

Clinton Morrow; Calvin Ho


Key clients

Alliance Capital Partners Limited


BF Belmont Ltd


Chayora Holdings Limited


Contel Technology Company Limited


Crowell & Moring LLP


Dah Sing Bank, Limited


Debevoise & Plimpton LLP


Dongxing Securities (Hong Kong) Company Limited


Eric Chow & Co. in association with Commerce & Finance Law Offices


Good Taste Limited


Halcyon Capital Limited and Eddid Capital Limited


Macfarlanes LLP


Mishcon de Reya LLP/Comcast Cable Communications Management LLC


Platinum Capital Limited


Shandong Xinhua Pharmaceutical Co Ltd


Somerley Capital Holdings Limited


Clayton, Dubilier & Rice


White & Case LLP (London)


Wing On Company International Limited


Work highlights


  • Advised the controlling shareholder of an HKEx IPO applicant in connection with the proposed listing on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited since the early stage of its preparation. The listing applicant is the exclusive master franchisee of Dominos pizza in the PRC, with over 450 stores in Mainland China.
  • Advised in relation to disposal of the entire registered capital of a PRC subsidiary by a European-based securities and derivative software group to a Japanese based IT group.
  • Provided legal advice regarding the establishment of a joint venture and application to the Securities and Futures Commission concerning licensing for operation of a virtual assets exchange.

Eric Chow & Co., in Association with Commerce & Finance Law Offices

Eric Chow & Co., in Association with Commerce & Finance Law Offices‘ ‘vibrant and knowledgeable’ team is well-placed to advise PRC clients on both inbound and outbound M&A mandates. Practice head and founding partner Eric Chow is noted for handling capital markets issues, regularly advising on IPOs in the healthcare, real estate, and TMT sectors. The ‘diligent’ and ‘impressive’ Priscilla Lee’s clientele typically consists of both PRC and Hong Kong companies, investment banks, and private equity funds; Lee has broad expertise in debt financing, direct investment, and regulatory issues concerning listed companies.

Practice head(s):

Eric Chow


Testimonials

‘Terence Lau is very professional, diligent, knowledgeable and responsive.’

‘The team is professional, reliable, and has commercial sense.’

‘Priscilla Lee in particular is impressive. She is diligent and knows what the client needs.’

‘The team is young, vibrant and knowledgeable.’

Key clients

Beijing State-owned Capital Operation and Management Company Limited


International Alliance Financial Leasing


Hubei Port (Hong Kong) International Limited


Cinese International Development Limited


Infinities Global Technology Limited Partnership


ZONQING Environmental Limited


Work highlights


  • Advised Beijing State-owned Capital Operation and Management Company Limited on its acquisition of 22.35% equity interests in Shoucheng Holdings Limited.
  • Advised International Alliance Financial Leasing on an acquisition of 70.00% of interests in Yantai Nanshan University, from Nanshan Holdings Co., Ltd. for a consideration of RMB 566 m.
  • Advised Chinese International Development Limited to acquire approximately 50.18% of the total issued share capital of Pinestone Capital Limited for HK$179.6 m.

Minter Ellison

The team at Minter Ellison handles a broad range of mandates, including both hostile and recommended takeover bids, mergers by schemes of arrangements, and trade sales. Notable clients include MTR Law Company Limited, Hopson Development Holdings Limited, and Forkast Global Ltd. Fred Kinmonth and George Tong jointly co-head the practice; Kinmouth has ample expertise in advising investment banks and domestic corporations on refinancings, entertainment related infrastructure projects, and equity fundraisings; and Tong assists listed companies on regulatory issues, in addition to debt financing matters. Andrew Yang predominantly assists venture and growth funds, and financial institutions across Indonesia, Mongolia, Hong Kong, and China.

Practice head(s):

Fred Kinmouth; George Tong


Other key lawyers:

Barbara Mok; Andrew Yang; Mark Leung


Testimonials

‘The ME team has on multiple occasions delivered above and beyond, and always to the fullest extent. Instead of just giving us canned responses filled with qualifiers and caveats, the ME team is able to give actionable and commercially-minded suggestions for deals to move forward while safeguarding important legal grounds.’

‘Andrew Yang is great. Clear and direct communication with a focus on next steps and execution. Responses are always prompt, and we were able to push deals with tight deadlines.’

‘Mark Leung is also great. Always available and quick turnaround.’

Key clients

Hopson Development Holdings Limited


Yuexiu Transport Infrastructure Limited


Forkast Global Ltd


Legit Selera Pte. Ltd.


99 Group Pte. Ltd.


MTR Lab Company Limited


Work highlights


  • Acted for Hopson Development Holdings Limited in the acquisition by Shanghai Hebo Properties Consultancy Company Limited, its wholly-owned subsidiary, of the entire equity interest in Shanghai Bozheng Properties Company Limited from Shanghai Zhujiang Investment Group Company Limited for the consideration of RMB790 m.
  • Acted for Yuexiu Transport Infrastructure Limited in its acquisition by Yuexiu (China) Transport Infrastructure Investment Company Limited, its subsidiary (as purchaser), of equity interests in Henan Yuexiu Lanwei Expressway Company Limited, a company operating an expressway in Henan Province, the PRC, from Guangzhou Yuexiu Holdings Limited for the consideration of RMB1.098 bn.
  • Acted for Forkast Global Ltd, a company engaged in the business of publishing online independent news and analysis related to emerging technology and advertisement in the disposal by FK-Cayman’s of substantially all its assets and goodwill comprising or related to the Business to CryptoSlam, Inc., in consideration of shares of CryptoSlam having an aggregate value of approximately US$34.8 m.

Proskauer Rose LLP

Proskauer Rose LLP’s practice acts for clients from a diverse range of sectors, including fintech, healthcare, and hospitality, with particular emphasis on single asset transactions, and operational agreements. Notable clients include Hoteles City Express and Partners Group. Working between the Hong Kong and Beijing offices, Yuval Tal is hailed by clients as ‘the most efficient lawyer’, utilising his broad expertise in transactions across the real estate, entertainment, and hospitality sectors.

Practice head(s):

Yuval Tal


Testimonials

‘Well balanced execution capability.’

‘Yuval Tal is the most efficient lawyer that I have ever worked in my 48 years of business carrier.

Key clients

Accor – H World Group


Partners Group


Accor – Qatar First Bank


B.M. Group


Hoteles City Express


Galaxy Entertainment Group


Ropes & Gray LLP

The practice at Ropes & Gray LLP continues to represent numerous technology companies and investment entities, in addition to venture capital firms in a broad range of transactional mandates. Practice head Oliver Nip is known for his broad knowledge spanning a broad range of issues, namely co-investments, joint ventures, and growth investments. Nip regularly assists Hong Kong listed companies and private equity firm sponsors.

Practice head(s):

Oliver Nip


Testimonials

‘The Ropes & Gray M&A team provided tailor made and spot on advisory support to the M&A transaction that I have worked with them on. Familiar with market update and precedents and able to give well thought of advice with a view to resolve issues.’

Key clients

Alibaba


API Hong Kong Investment Limited


Cainiao Smart Logistics Network


Didi Global Inc.


Manulife Investment Management


Work highlights


  • Represented Manulife Investment Management in its acquisition of a significant minority stake in ARCH Capital Management Co., Ltd.

Sidley Austin

Sidley Austin houses a ‘multifaceted professional’ team which has experienced growth in activity surrounding alternative energy vehicle, retail, and professional service related transactions. Practice co-head Constance Choy acts as the APAC managing partner, and has broad expertise in the real estate, financial services, and life sciences sectors. Dividing his time between Hong Kong and Singapore, co-head Raymond Oh is known for his longstanding expertise in advising on joint ventures, private equity fund formation, and both public and private M&A. ‘Stand-out partner’ Christopher Cheng is particularly adept at handling public takeovers and share buy-backs, often advising clients on compliance with listing rules.

Practice head(s):

Constance Choy; Raymond Oh


Other key lawyers:

Christopher Cheng


Testimonials

‘If you are looking for a multifaceted professional firm, Sidley is the one whom you should approach. Moreover, their strong commitment is an important factor.

‘Christopher Cheng pinpointed the key areas of concern so that we could address those issues with the counterparty upfront. He offered solutions while highlighting the problems. We are very sure this is an attribute which most clients are looking for.’

‘Provide international perspectives, and cross border experience. ’

‘Sidley Austin’s corporate team handles a wide range of transactions, from private equity-related investments to complex cross-border deals. The lawyers have a deep understanding of customer needs and provide a high standard of service.’

‘We worked with Raymond Oh on many deals. He has extensive experience in M&A and corporate finance transactions. He is quite hands-on and always puts the clients’ interest first. The lawyers in his team always give us valuable advice in a timely manner. ’

‘The team is knowledgeable and experienced.’

‘Christopher Cheng is a stand-out partner.’

‘What makes Christopher Cheng stand out is that he thinks from the client’s perspective and provides excellent solutions. He has never let me down, this is the root of my trust in him. His client thinking, his legal professionalism and rich experience make me think he is very good.’

Key clients

LEGO Corporate Finance Limited


TMF Hong Kong Limited


Geely Automobile Holdings Limited


C.P. Pokphand Co. Ltd.


Noco-Noco Pte. Ltd.


Kingston Financial Group Limited


The selling controlling shareholder of Everjoy Services Company Limited


Guangzhou R&F Properties Co., Ltd.


Country Garden Services Holdings Company Limited


Landsea Green Life Service Company Limited


Landsea Green Management Limited


Wuling Motors Holdings Limited


Geely Group Limited


Beijing Enterprises Urban Resources Group Limited


Celestial Asia Securities Holdings Limited


Golden Eagle Retail Group Limited


Asia Optical International Ltd.


Work highlights


  • Advised Lego Corporate Finance Limited, being the sole sponsor for the new listing application in connection with Qidian International Co., Ltd.’s acquisition of the entire issued share capital of Shengshang Entrepreneurial Services Co., Ltd., at an aggregate consideration of HK$1.995 bn.
  • Advised TMF Group in its acquisition of Sino Corporate Services Group, a provider of fund, trust, and corporate services located in Hong Kong, Chinese Mainland, and Singapore.
  • Advised Geely Automobile Holdings Limited on its direct wholly-owned subsidiary Linkstate’s acquisition of 49.9% interest in PROTON Holdings Berhad and shareholder’s loan, and 49.9% interest in DRB-HICOM Geely Sdn. Bhd. The aggregate cash consideration is approximately RMB1.4567 bn.

Stephenson Harwood

Regularly collaborating with Wei Tu Law Firm, Stephenson Harwood handles the full scope of transactional mandates throughout the greater China region. Amongst the variety of issues the group works on, financings, divestments, and joint ventures are particular areas of expertise, with the team exhibiting deep knowledge of shipping regulation, aviation, and real estate issues. Practice head Jane Ng has expansive expertise in advising on regional and PRC related issues concerning corporate secretarial practices and corporate governance from a regulatory perspective. Michelle Chung is accomplished in matters involving IPOs, spinoffs and the transferral of listings, while counsel Denise Tsui bolsters the practice with her knowledge of general compliance and share listings.

Practice head(s):

Jane Ng


Other key lawyers:

Michelle Chung


Testimonials

‘They offer practical advice and are willing to go the extra mile to deliver results.’

‘Michelle Chung understands client needs and is able to deliver coherent services.’

Key clients

Arts Optical International Holdings Limited


Asia Orient Company Limited


Asia Standard Hotel Group Limited


Asia Standard International Group Limited


Canadian Real Estate Investment Centre


China Development Bank Financial Leasing Co., Ltd.


Computime Group Limited


Eurofins Scientific


FTI Consulting (Hong Kong) Limited


Global Telecom Capital Partners Holding Limited


Madison Pacific Trust Limited


Mark Allen Group


PricewaterhouseCoopers


Pure International (HK) Limited


Television Broadcasts Limited


The joint provisional liquidators of CECEP COSTIN New Materials Group Limited


Unitas Group Company Limited


Work highlights


  • Acted for Beijing Enterprises Water Group Limited as the offeror in the public takeover (which also constitutes its discloseable transaction under the Listing Rules) and assisted in reviewing and drafting the composite offer document and announcements pursuant to the Hong Kong Takeovers Code and the Listing Rules, and other ancillary documents.
  • Advised Corporation Service Company, a global Delaware-based provider of business, legal, tax and digital brand services, on the Asian aspects of its acquisition of Intertrust Group.
  • Advised Fine Art Management on its establishment of a joint venture with a prominent art advisor in Hong Kong.