Renowned for its cross-border capabilities and deep regulatory insight, Linklaters remains a go-to firm for complex, high-value M&A and private equity transactions. Leading conglomerates, multinationals, state-owned enterprises, and global financial sponsors regularly turn to the firm for advice on sophisticated corporate matters across the region. The practice is especially noted for its strength in both inbound and outbound China-related deals. Co-head Matthew Middleditch brings over four decades of experience handling complex transactions involving financial institutions, while fellow co-head Betty Yap is highly regarded for her private equity expertise. Roger Cheng and Donnelly Chan are also key figures in the team.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Very knowledgeable and commercially savvy Corporate team.'
‘John Xu a key strategic adviser, providing excellent advice on a timely basis’
‘World-class insurance transactions capabilities and experience.'
‘Matthew Middleditch has consistently demonstrated very relevant and useful capabilities and delivered well-thought-out advice for our transactions. ’
‘Very professional, with relatively evenly matched strengths and no obvious weaknesses, especially in M&A transactions. They are all experienced in key areas, and their analysis of pros and cons is sharp, comprehensive and intelligent, far exceeding expectations, and can effectively ensure that clients do not make mistakes and make the best decisions'
‘Betty Yap: top level professional, considerate, and empathy John Xu: super professional, mild, and flexible .'
‘Excellent delivery of legal services, year-on-year across all attributes - quality, availability and engagement of partners and senior associates, ability to digest complex fact patterns and issues and revert with pragmatic and commercially balanced advice promptly.'
‘ Betty and Charity are a pleasure to work with. Our team very much value their counsel and advice.'
Key clients
- Ant Group
- The Bank of East Asia
- CLSA Premium Limited
- COSCO Shipping
- Royal Golden Eagle
- Harneys
- Citi
- Intel
- Dairy Farm
- BRF
- UBS
- Ageas
- Swire Pacific
- Alphawave
- Keboda
- Goldman Sachs
- Deutsche Bank
- Morgan Stanley
- CITIC Securities
Work highlights
Advised Ant Wealth n the possible unconditional mandatory cash offer in relation to Bright Smart Securities & Commodities Group Limited.
Advised the shareholders of Hong Kong Life Insurance Limited on the sale of 100% of the issued share capital of Hong Kong Life Insurance Limited to Yue Xiu Enterprises.
Advised COSCO SHIPPING Ports Limited on the formation of Red Sea Container Terminals Overseas Limited.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Matthew Middleditch
Practice head
Matthew Middleditch; Betty Yap
Other key lawyers
Roger Cheng; Donnelly Chan; Wuji Zhang; Tiffany Yan; Christina Mao; Annie Chung