Corporate/M&A: International: The Elite - Singapore
What the team is known for
Herbert Smith Freehills houses a highly established legal team in Singapore, with extensive experience of complex, multi-jurisdictional transactions. The firm offers deep knowledge regarding M&A in the insurance, technology and telecommunications as well as energy and infrastructure sectors. The team also acts on corporate issues such as fund-raising and shareholders' agreements, and is notably active as counsel to pension funds, sovereign funds and other investors focused on Asia. The firm is well regarded for its work in Indonesia, India and Malaysia, among other countries. HSF has a formal law alliance with Prolegis LLC that enables clients to access Singapore law as well as international law advice. The firm's clientele includes the Indonesia Investment Authority, Globe Telecom and Goldman Sachs.
Foreign desks
Herbert Smith Freehills gains recognition for its Indonesia practice, handling M&A and joint ventures in sectors such as telecommunications, energy and technology. Its key clients include pre-eminent Indonesian and international corporations. The practice is closely associated with law firm Hiswara Bunjamin & Tandjung for local law advice. Herbert Smith Freehills advised DP World on its strategic alliance with Indonesia Investment Authority to invest in Indonesia's ports and logistics sector. Jamie McLaren is a key contact for clients.
The Malaysia desk advises international clients on joint ventures, investments and M&A deals, in sectors such as banking, TMT and insurance. The Singapore-based team also advises Malaysian clients, including on outbound transactions. Glynn Cooper is a key contact.
Strengths
"The team are well aware of key commercial issues and can advise clients accordingly, focusing on key risks."
"They are a strong and reliable set of lawyers. They have a large practice with some deep expertise in key practice areas."
Work highlights
Herbert Smith Freehills advised Unity on its acquisition of 650 telecommunications towers in the Philippines from PLDT through its subsidiaries Smart Communications and Digitel Mobile Philippines.
