Startups & Emerging Companies
Asia-Pacific Guide 2025 : Singapore
Band 1
Chambers Review
Gunderson Dettmer Stough Villeneuve Franklin & Hachigan in Singapore leverages substantial experience in emerging company legal work for both startups and investors, with clients benefiting from the strength of its US offices. Originally founded in Silicon Valley, the firm opened its Singapore office in 2016 and also offers venture capital capability in Beijing. It regularly advises venture capital and growth equity firms on investments in a range of sectors, including e-commerce, healthtech and biotech. Also, the team acts for venture-backed companies, advising on every stage of a company's life cycle.
Work Highlights
- Gunderson Dettmer represented Lightspeed Venture Partners as an investor in Indian-based unicorn Udaan's Series E financing.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"The Gunderson Dettmer team skilfully navigate the intersection between legal advice and business strategy, ensuring their guidance is not only legally sound but also commercially viable."
"The team are highly responsive, offering round-the-clock availability for urgent matters. Their quick turnaround times are impressive, ensuring issues are addressed promptly and efficiently."
"The team understand how to problem-solve and are able to anticipate issues before they arrive. They provide thoughtful legal advice that is commercial in nature as well."
"The Gunderson Dettmer team skilfully navigate the intersection between legal advice and business strategy, ensuring their guidance is not only legally sound but also commercially viable."
"The team are highly responsive, offering round-the-clock availability for urgent matters. Their quick turnaround times are impressive, ensuring issues are addressed promptly and efficiently."
"The team understand how to problem-solve and are able to anticipate issues before they arrive. They provide thoughtful legal advice that is commercial in nature as well."
Notable Practitioners
Jonathan Pentzien is the managing partner of Gunderson Dettmer's Singapore office and enjoys a solid reputation for advising emerging growth technology companies throughout their life cycle. He also acts for venture capital-focused funds on their investments, with clients benefiting from his previous experience in New York and cross-border expertise.
"I highly recommendJon for his out-of-the-box thinking and the innovative solutions he brings to the table."
"He is very knowledgeable and is really thorough in his approach. He provides practical advice, not just legal."
"He provides valuable and practical insights. He is also extremely available and supportive."
David He is well versed in venture capital transactions. He advises funds and startups, with a particular focus on the technology sector.
"He is one of the most hard-working lawyers. I trust in his ability to leverage his vast deal experience to provide the best service and advice."
"David He's broad experience allows him to pre-emptively address potential challenges and protect business interests."
"David exhibits remarkable attention to detail and a strong commercial mindset, making him highly effective in navigating complex legal matters."