Deals

The past 18 months have seen an unprecedented upturn in cross-regional acquisitions in the Americas, with cash-rich individuals and corporations in Asia eager to participate in a spate of outbound foreign investment. In this edition of Asian-Counsel, we cover the major challenges, benefits and risks to Asian investors looking to do business in the Americas, from forming an effective M&A strategy to the obstacles and dangers to investment in Latin America and entering a sophisticated market such as the US.

Our Special Report on M&A takes a look at which jurisdictions are leading the pack in deal-making activity in 2010. We also hear from leading firms as to the status quo of M&A laws and regulations in India, Indonesia, Malaysia and Vietnam – find out which countries are making a push to encourage foreign investment through development of their legal frameworks, and which still have a long way to go.

James Shepherd and Lauren Rogge of Blake Dawson explain how international lenders are increasingly recognising the need for accountability when financing energy projects.

Last year’s strong M&A activity in Asia has continued in the first half of 2011. In our Special Report, senior lawyers practising in the field share their insights into the factors driving activity, from Asia’s thirst for overseas acquisitions to foreign companies trying to gain a foothold in emerging markets. Find out why Japan’s March 11 earthquake and tsunami could stimulate outbound investment, and how the UAE’s distinct business culture can present challenges for the unwary investor. Features articles contributed by Hogan Lovells, K&L Gates, Melli Darsa & Co, Phoenix Legal, Tilleke & Gibbins, DFDL Mekong and Indochine Counsel.

In our latest edition we take a look at the state of play in South Korea, from how cash-rich companies are making their mark on the international stage to the impending liberalisation of the Republic’s legal sector. We also hear from leading firms as to how South Korea is enticing foreign companies to list on the Korea Exchange, whether we are witnessing a turning point in the country’s M&A market, and why parties embarking on deals with a South Korean element can feel confident they will get a fair go from the nation’s arbitration legislation and court system, should disputes arise.

Pitted against a backdrop of financial as well as natural disasters in 2011, in-house and external counsel had to fight clock, calendar and boundary to get their clients’ deals across the finish line. Notably, countries in the Asian and MENA regions, drivers of the engines of growth since the GFC and the Euro-crisis, have delivered a high level of torque. ASIAN-MENA COUNSEL celebrates an array of stellar deals in this issue that made the short-list for their size, innovation, complexity and uniqueness. From towering IPO’s to huge eco-friendly structures, our winning deals as well as our honourable mentions, span an impressive gamut.

A Corporate Journey to the West: or How to make a successful acquisition in the USA …