Allen & Gledhill LLP
Asia-Pacific Guide 2024
About
Chairman & Senior Partner: Christina Ong
Managing Partner: Jerry Koh
Number of partners: 152
Number of lawyers in Singapore: 450+
Number of lawyers in regional network: 600+
Languages: Bahasa Indonesia, English, Malay, Mandarin, Myanmar, Tamil, Vietnamese
Firm Overview:
Allen & Gledhill is an award-winning full-service law firm which provides legal services to a wide range of premier clients, including local and multinational corporations and financial institutions in Asia. Established in 1902, the Firm is consistently ranked as one of the market leaders in the region, having been involved in a number of challenging, complex and significant deals, many of which are the first of its kind. The Firm’s reputation for high-quality advice is regularly affirmed by the strong rankings in leading publications, and by the various awards and accolades it has received from independent commentators and clients. The Firm is consistently ranked band one in the highest number of practice areas, and has the highest number of lawyers recognised as leading individuals. Over the years, the Firm has also been named ‘Singapore Law Firm of the Year’, ‘Regional Law Firm of the Year’ and ‘SE Asia Law Firm of the Year’ by many prominent legal publishers. With a growing network of associate firms and offices, Allen & Gledhill is well-placed to advise clients on their business interests in Singapore and beyond, in particular, on matters involving the Asia region. With offices in Singapore, Myanmar, Vietnam and China, as well as associate firms in Malaysia (Rahmat Lim & Partners) and Indonesia (AGI Legal), the Allen & Gledhill network known as A&G Asia has over 600 lawyers, making it one of the largest law firm networks in the region.
Main Areas of Practice:
■ Banking & Finance
■ Capital Markets
■ China Practice
■ Competition & Foreign Investment Review
■ Construction & Engineering
■ Corporate & Commercial
■ Corporate Real Estate
■ Corporate Regulatory & Compliance
■ Corporate Services
■ Cybersecurity & Data Protection
■ Employment, Health and Safety
■ Energy, Infrastructure & Projects
■ ESG & Public Policy
■ Financial Regulatory & Compliance
■ FinTech
■ India Practice
■ Indonesia Practice
■ Intellectual Property
■ International Arbitration
■ Investment Funds
■ Islamic Finance
■ Litigation
■ Maritime & Aviation
■ Mergers & Acquisitions
■ Private Equity
■ Private Wealth
■ Real Estate Investment Trusts
■ Restructuring & Insolvency
■ Tax
■ Technology, Media & Telecommunications
■ Venture Capital
■ White Collar & Investigations
NETWORK OFFICES
MALAYSIA
Kuala Lumpur: Rahmat Lim & Partners (In association with Allen & Gledhill)
Tel:+603 2299 3888
Fax: +603 2287 1278
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.rahmatlim.com
MYANMAR
Yangon: Allen & Gledhill (Myanmar) Co., Ltd.
Minn Naing Oo
Tel:+95 1 925 3717
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.allenandgledhill.com/mm
INDONESIA
Jakarta: AGI Legal (In association with Allen & Gledhill)
Oene J. Marseille
Tel:+62 21 3825 0800
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.agilegal.id
VIETNAM
Ho Chi Minh City: Allen & Gledhill (Vietnam) Limited Liability Law Company
Oh Hsiu-Hau
Tel: +84 28 3622 8800 / +84 86 208 2099
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.allenandgledhill.com/vn
CHINA
Shanghai: Allen & Gledhill LLP Shanghai Representative Office
Yong Kai Chang
Tel: +86 21 5888 2285 (China) / +65 6890 7188 (Singapore)
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.allenandgledhill.com/cn
Ranked Offices
Provided by Allen & Gledhill LLP
- SingaporeOne Marina Boulevard, #28-00, Singapore, Singapore Island, Singapore, 018989
- Web: www.allenandgledhill.com
- Tel: +65 6890 7188
- Fax: +65 6327 3800
- View ranked office
- YangonJunction City Tower, #18-01, Bogyoke Aung San Road, Pabedan Township, Yangon, Yangon Division, MyanmarView ranked office
- Ho Chi Minh CitySaigon Centre, Tower 2, Level 18, Unit 2, 67 Le Loi Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, VietnamView ranked office
Allen & Gledhill LLP rankings
Articles, highlights and press releases
35 items provided by Allen & Gledhill LLP
Landmark decision that legal and equitable set-offs not permissible against a company in liquidation
The General Division of the Singapore High Court in Park Hotel CQ Pte Ltd (in liquidation) & Ors v Law Ching Hung and Park Hotel Management Pte Ltd (in liquidation) & Ors v Law Ching Hung & Ors [2024] SGHC 105 has decided two major points of insolvency law for the first time.
Film distributor found liable in first case invoking Simplified Process for Certain IP Claims
In Tiger Pictures Entertainment Ltd v Encore Films Pte Ltd [2024] SGHC 39, the General Division of the Singapore High Court found that the defendant, a film distribution company, had infringed the claimant’s copyright in a top-grossing Chinese film.
Liquidators should be cautious of acting summarily as judge, jury and executioner
On 5 March 2024, in Kyen Resources Pte Ltd (in compulsory liquidation) & Ors v Feima International (Hongkong) Ltd (in liquidation) and another matter [2024] SGCA 7, the Singapore Court of Appeal decided three major points of law for the first time.
Significant Investments Review Act 2024 in force
he Significant Investments Review Act 2024 and its related subsidiary legislation, the Significant Investments Review Regulations 2024 and the Significant Investments Review (Reviewing Tribunal) Rules 2024, come into force on 28 March 2024.
Mickey Mouse enters the public domain: The end of a cultural icon?
Many would be familiar with Walt Disney Studios as one of the greatest pioneers of modern animation.
Singapore publishes eligibility list for international carbon credits under carbon tax regime
On 19 December 2023, the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment and the National Environment Agency issued a press release setting out the eligibility list under the International Carbon Credit Framework, which will take effect from 1 January 2024.
Singapore courts’ crypto-friendly approach shown in new ruling that cryptocurrency can be property
In the recent case of ByBit Fintech Ltd v Ho Kai Xin & Ors [2023] SGHC 199, the General Division of the Singapore High Court considered whether the cryptocurrency stablecoin known as “Tether” constitutes property that is capable of being held on trust.
Digital tokens and customer protections
The global regulatory environment governing the sale, purchase, exchange, transfer, and custody of cryptocurrencies is changing.
MAS finalises stablecoin regulatory framework, responds to feedback received on public consultation
On 15 August 2023, the Monetary Authority of Singapore announced the features of a new regulatory framework that seeks to ensure a high degree of value stability for stablecoins regulated in Singapore.
Refinements to list of non-residential properties under Residential Property Act 1976
On 19 July 2023, the Ministry of Law and the Singapore Land Authority jointly announced that the list of non-residential properties under the Residential Property Act 1976 as set out in the Schedule to the Residential Property Notification would be refined by updating the list of land use zones
Singapore High Court considers when insured may recover under insurance policy for sums payable
In SYT Consultants Pte Ltd v QBE Insurance (Singapore) Pte Ltd, the General Division of the Singapore High Court considered whether an insured, who had settled a claim against it by third parties without obtaining the insurer’s approval on such settlement, could subsequently rely on the settlement
Singapore High Court issues decision in first case on Simplified Process for Certain IP Claims
In Tiger Pictures Entertainment Ltd v Encore Films Pte Ltd, the Singapore High Court explained the factors in determining the suitability of the recently introduced “Simplified Process for Certain Intellectual Property Claims” to a claim.
COP27: Impact on Singapore and South-east Asia
The 27th Conference of the Parties (“COP27”) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change took place in the Egyptian coastal city of Sharm el-Sheikh from 6 to 20 November 2022 and concluded with the launch of the COP27 cover decision known as the Sharm el-Sheikh Implementation Plan.
Singapore Court of Appeal rules for the first time on principles for costs recovery before the SICC
On 25 November 2022, a five-judge coram of the Singapore Court of Appeal in Senda International Capital Ltd v Kiri Industries Ltd [2022] SGCA(I) 10 ruled on the principles for the assessment of costs for proceedings in the Singapore International Commercial Court (“SICC”) for the first time.
SICC dismisses application to set aside arbitral award on grounds of invalidity of agreement
In CPU v CPX, the SICC dismissed an application to set aside an arbitral award on the grounds that the underlying arbitration agreement was invalid by reason of the applicants’ incapacity, and that there had been a breach of the rules of natural justice.
MAS regulatory framework for financial holding companies in force
The Financial Holding Companies Act 2013, which introduces a regulatory framework for the Monetary Authority of Singapore to regulate financial holding companies and their financial groups, has entered into force.
Kiri succeeds in appeal before Singapore Court of Appeal in landmark decision
On 6 July 2022, the Singapore Court of Appeal in Kiri Industries Ltd v Senda International Capital Ltd & Anor allowed Kiri Industries Limited’s appeal that a discount for lack of marketability should not apply to the valuation of Kiri’s shareholding in its joint vehicle, DyStar Global Holdings.
ACRA and SGX RegCo establish committee to advise on sustainability reporting roadmap for Singapore-i
On 21 June 2022, the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority and Singapore Exchange Regulation announced that they have established a Sustainability Reporting Advisory Committee to advise on a sustainability reporting roadmap for Singapore-incorporated companies.
Framework for conditional fee agreements in Singapore in effect from 4 May 2022
The framework for conditional fee agreements in Singapore has come into operation from 4 May 2022.
SGX mandates climate and board diversity disclosures
On 15 December 2021, Singapore Exchange announced that it will proceed with plans to require issuers to provide climate-related reporting based on recommendations of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures and disclosures on board diversity.
ACRA consults on proposed amendments relating to data, digitalisation, and corporate transparency
ACRA regularly reviews and seeks public feedback on legislation to foster a trusted and vibrant business environment in Singapore.
Singapore commits to phasing out unabated coal power by 2050
On 4 November 2021, the National Climate Change Secretariat, Ministry of Trade and Industry and Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment issued a statement announcing that Singapore has joined the Powering Past Coal Alliance.
Third-party funding permitted for more categories of legal proceedings in Singapore
From 28 June 2021, the third-party funding framework in Singapore has been expanded to cover domestic arbitration proceedings, certain proceedings in the Singapore International Commercial Court, and related mediation proceedings.
Banking Act amended to rationalise banking regulation and enhance prudential oversight
On 1 July 2021, the Banking Act was amended by the Banking (Amendment) Act 2020 to rationalise banking regulation by removing the divide between the Domestic Banking Unit and the Asian Currency Unit, and to consolidate the licensing and regulation of merchant banks under the BA.
New appellate structure in Singapore Supreme Court implemented on 2 January 2021
The Supreme Court of Singapore, which comprises the Court of Appeal and the High Court, has restructured its High Court into the General Division of the High Court and the Appellate Division of the High Court.
MAS revises Technology Risk Management Guidelines to combat heightened cyber risks
On 18 January 2021, the Monetary Authority of Singapore issued the revised Technology Risk Management Guidelines to keep pace with emerging technologies and shifts in the cyber threat landscape.
China’s new foreign investment regime in force from 1 January 2020
The new Foreign Investment Law of the People’s Republic of China has come into effect from 1 January 2020. It was adopted by the PRC National People’s Congress on 15 March 2019.
China reduces restrictions and prohibitions on foreign investment
On 23 June 2020, the National Development and Reform Commission and the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China jointly issued the Special Administrative Measures for the Access of Foreign Investment (Negative List) (2020 Version).
New IPOS initiatives for companies including expedited registration for trade marks
The ninth edition of IP Week @ SG took place digitally from 25 to 27 August 2020. Presented by the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore, this IP event brought together IP thought leaders, legal experts and innovative enterprises through a suite of live, complimentary webinars.
Soft Opening of Myanmar’s new trademark registration system on 1 October 2020
On 28 August 2020, the Myanmar Ministry of Commerce issued Order No. 63 of 2020 announcing the long-awaited commencement date of the soft opening of the new trademark registration system.
Landmark decision that legal and equitable set-offs not permissible against a company in liquidation
The General Division of the Singapore High Court in Park Hotel CQ Pte Ltd (in liquidation) & Ors v Law Ching Hung and Park Hotel Management Pte Ltd (in liquidation) & Ors v Law Ching Hung & Ors [2024] SGHC 105 has decided two major points of insolvency law for the first time.
Film distributor found liable in first case invoking Simplified Process for Certain IP Claims
In Tiger Pictures Entertainment Ltd v Encore Films Pte Ltd [2024] SGHC 39, the General Division of the Singapore High Court found that the defendant, a film distribution company, had infringed the claimant’s copyright in a top-grossing Chinese film.
Liquidators should be cautious of acting summarily as judge, jury and executioner
On 5 March 2024, in Kyen Resources Pte Ltd (in compulsory liquidation) & Ors v Feima International (Hongkong) Ltd (in liquidation) and another matter [2024] SGCA 7, the Singapore Court of Appeal decided three major points of law for the first time.
Significant Investments Review Act 2024 in force
he Significant Investments Review Act 2024 and its related subsidiary legislation, the Significant Investments Review Regulations 2024 and the Significant Investments Review (Reviewing Tribunal) Rules 2024, come into force on 28 March 2024.
Mickey Mouse enters the public domain: The end of a cultural icon?
Many would be familiar with Walt Disney Studios as one of the greatest pioneers of modern animation.
Singapore publishes eligibility list for international carbon credits under carbon tax regime
On 19 December 2023, the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment and the National Environment Agency issued a press release setting out the eligibility list under the International Carbon Credit Framework, which will take effect from 1 January 2024.
Singapore courts’ crypto-friendly approach shown in new ruling that cryptocurrency can be property
In the recent case of ByBit Fintech Ltd v Ho Kai Xin & Ors [2023] SGHC 199, the General Division of the Singapore High Court considered whether the cryptocurrency stablecoin known as “Tether” constitutes property that is capable of being held on trust.
Digital tokens and customer protections
The global regulatory environment governing the sale, purchase, exchange, transfer, and custody of cryptocurrencies is changing.
MAS finalises stablecoin regulatory framework, responds to feedback received on public consultation
On 15 August 2023, the Monetary Authority of Singapore announced the features of a new regulatory framework that seeks to ensure a high degree of value stability for stablecoins regulated in Singapore.
Refinements to list of non-residential properties under Residential Property Act 1976
On 19 July 2023, the Ministry of Law and the Singapore Land Authority jointly announced that the list of non-residential properties under the Residential Property Act 1976 as set out in the Schedule to the Residential Property Notification would be refined by updating the list of land use zones
Singapore High Court considers when insured may recover under insurance policy for sums payable
In SYT Consultants Pte Ltd v QBE Insurance (Singapore) Pte Ltd, the General Division of the Singapore High Court considered whether an insured, who had settled a claim against it by third parties without obtaining the insurer’s approval on such settlement, could subsequently rely on the settlement
Singapore High Court issues decision in first case on Simplified Process for Certain IP Claims
In Tiger Pictures Entertainment Ltd v Encore Films Pte Ltd, the Singapore High Court explained the factors in determining the suitability of the recently introduced “Simplified Process for Certain Intellectual Property Claims” to a claim.
COP27: Impact on Singapore and South-east Asia
The 27th Conference of the Parties (“COP27”) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change took place in the Egyptian coastal city of Sharm el-Sheikh from 6 to 20 November 2022 and concluded with the launch of the COP27 cover decision known as the Sharm el-Sheikh Implementation Plan.
Singapore Court of Appeal rules for the first time on principles for costs recovery before the SICC
On 25 November 2022, a five-judge coram of the Singapore Court of Appeal in Senda International Capital Ltd v Kiri Industries Ltd [2022] SGCA(I) 10 ruled on the principles for the assessment of costs for proceedings in the Singapore International Commercial Court (“SICC”) for the first time.
SICC dismisses application to set aside arbitral award on grounds of invalidity of agreement
In CPU v CPX, the SICC dismissed an application to set aside an arbitral award on the grounds that the underlying arbitration agreement was invalid by reason of the applicants’ incapacity, and that there had been a breach of the rules of natural justice.
MAS regulatory framework for financial holding companies in force
The Financial Holding Companies Act 2013, which introduces a regulatory framework for the Monetary Authority of Singapore to regulate financial holding companies and their financial groups, has entered into force.
Kiri succeeds in appeal before Singapore Court of Appeal in landmark decision
On 6 July 2022, the Singapore Court of Appeal in Kiri Industries Ltd v Senda International Capital Ltd & Anor allowed Kiri Industries Limited’s appeal that a discount for lack of marketability should not apply to the valuation of Kiri’s shareholding in its joint vehicle, DyStar Global Holdings.
ACRA and SGX RegCo establish committee to advise on sustainability reporting roadmap for Singapore-i
On 21 June 2022, the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority and Singapore Exchange Regulation announced that they have established a Sustainability Reporting Advisory Committee to advise on a sustainability reporting roadmap for Singapore-incorporated companies.
Framework for conditional fee agreements in Singapore in effect from 4 May 2022
The framework for conditional fee agreements in Singapore has come into operation from 4 May 2022.
SGX mandates climate and board diversity disclosures
On 15 December 2021, Singapore Exchange announced that it will proceed with plans to require issuers to provide climate-related reporting based on recommendations of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures and disclosures on board diversity.
ACRA consults on proposed amendments relating to data, digitalisation, and corporate transparency
ACRA regularly reviews and seeks public feedback on legislation to foster a trusted and vibrant business environment in Singapore.
Singapore commits to phasing out unabated coal power by 2050
On 4 November 2021, the National Climate Change Secretariat, Ministry of Trade and Industry and Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment issued a statement announcing that Singapore has joined the Powering Past Coal Alliance.
Third-party funding permitted for more categories of legal proceedings in Singapore
From 28 June 2021, the third-party funding framework in Singapore has been expanded to cover domestic arbitration proceedings, certain proceedings in the Singapore International Commercial Court, and related mediation proceedings.
Banking Act amended to rationalise banking regulation and enhance prudential oversight
On 1 July 2021, the Banking Act was amended by the Banking (Amendment) Act 2020 to rationalise banking regulation by removing the divide between the Domestic Banking Unit and the Asian Currency Unit, and to consolidate the licensing and regulation of merchant banks under the BA.
New appellate structure in Singapore Supreme Court implemented on 2 January 2021
The Supreme Court of Singapore, which comprises the Court of Appeal and the High Court, has restructured its High Court into the General Division of the High Court and the Appellate Division of the High Court.
MAS revises Technology Risk Management Guidelines to combat heightened cyber risks
On 18 January 2021, the Monetary Authority of Singapore issued the revised Technology Risk Management Guidelines to keep pace with emerging technologies and shifts in the cyber threat landscape.
China’s new foreign investment regime in force from 1 January 2020
The new Foreign Investment Law of the People’s Republic of China has come into effect from 1 January 2020. It was adopted by the PRC National People’s Congress on 15 March 2019.
China reduces restrictions and prohibitions on foreign investment
On 23 June 2020, the National Development and Reform Commission and the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China jointly issued the Special Administrative Measures for the Access of Foreign Investment (Negative List) (2020 Version).
New IPOS initiatives for companies including expedited registration for trade marks
The ninth edition of IP Week @ SG took place digitally from 25 to 27 August 2020. Presented by the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore, this IP event brought together IP thought leaders, legal experts and innovative enterprises through a suite of live, complimentary webinars.
Soft Opening of Myanmar’s new trademark registration system on 1 October 2020
On 28 August 2020, the Myanmar Ministry of Commerce issued Order No. 63 of 2020 announcing the long-awaited commencement date of the soft opening of the new trademark registration system.