Ben Smith > Norton Rose Fulbright > Singapore, Singapore > Lawyer Profile

Norton Rose Fulbright’s work in Malaysia derives predominantly from its Singapore office, which is the base of its team leader Stephen Begley, who specialises in energy and natural resources-related mandates. The team is noted for its expertise in this arena, having witnessed an increase in oil and gas, renewables, and solar and energy storage projects-related matters, in addition to large-scale infrastructure projects. The practice’s client roster includes Malaysian corporations. Wilson Ang brings to bear his experience in handling regulatory, compliance and disputes mandate, while Katie Chung is another key contact for cross-border disputes and Ben Rose advises lenders on high-value financings. Ben Smith relocated from the firm’s Singapore office to London in July 2023.

Norton Rose Fulbright has an impressive mix of conventional and renewable energy engagements. It typically handles a significant volume of matters from around Asia Pacific and beyond and continues to experience rapid growth in its renewable energy practice, especially in regard to solar and energy storage projects. Hydrogen and carbon trading initiatives are also burgeoning areas for the Singapore team, which represents a wealth of energy clients and lenders. Asia stalwart Stephen Begley has a background in offshore oil and gas, and has built a strong reputation in renewable energy projects. Ben Smith is noted for LNG and gas projects, and Nick Merritt is an experienced project and energy finance specialist with an extensive track record in the region. Andrew Digges is another key partner for energy projects in Indonesia and other Asia Pacific jurisdictions.