Banking & Finance - Singapore
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore's lawyers are sought after by major banks and corporate borrowers due to an excellent track record in both large and mid-sized work, from traditional banking and syndicated lending to project and real estate finance. The team is capable of handling Shari'a-compliant financings and green financing. It additionally offers notable regulatory expertise regarding fintech issues and digital licence applications. The regional offering is well placed to handle cross-border instructions due to its network of offices across the region, including in Myanmar, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam and China. Key clients of the department include Pace Enterprise, HSBC and OCBC.
Foreign desks
Rajah & Tann Singapore is well placed to assist foreign and local entities with banking matters in Indonesia, including acquisition finance. It often advises on deals in the real estate sector. Ng Sey Ming is a key contact.
Strengths
"The Rajah & Tann team are comfortable with complexity and have the ability to simplify complex topics into core points."
"They don't rest on their laurels. They are able to bring their best to bear on each new financing transaction. They are very customer-focused and their service is top notch."
"Rajah & Tann are acutely aware of the commercial context in rendering legal advice to navigate a regulatory minefield instead of delivering textbook answers."
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann advised Citigroup Global Markets Singapore, BofA Securities and DBS Bank as mandated lead arrangers book runners and underwriters on the granting of EUR300 million term loan facilities to Perpetual Asia.
The firm provided Pace Enterprise with a range of regulatory advice including in respect of its Payment Services Act licensing application.
Notable practitioners
Regina Liew has a market-leading regulatory practice in Singapore. She has expertise across a wide range of issues, including digital banking and bank restructuring. "Regina is very dedicated, responsive, knowledgeable and insightful."
Angela Lim is a well-respected banking and finance lawyer in Singapore offering specific infrastructure expertise. She also regularly advises on term and bridge loan facilities.
Ng Sey Ming has built a strong reputation for cross-border transactions and acts for major banks and companies. His areas of expertise include real estate finance and sustainability-linked facilities. He often handles work involving Indonesia. "Sey Ming is knowledgeable and responsive. He is able to understand issues and make good solution-based recommendations."
Weilin Lee is a strong transactional practitioner who is well placed to advise lenders on both onshore and offshore financings. She boasts particular expertise in real estate financing mandates. "Weilin is a stellar performer. She is technically excellent, commercially astute and adept at managing difficult clients and counterparties." "She understands what the bank needs when it comes to financing."
Paul Ng is a well-known aviation finance lawyer who earns recognition from Chinese clients for his expertise.