M&A market will be flat but with cautious optimism says global law firm
The outlook for this year’s deals shows some signs of optimism, a new report from
Baker McKenzie says.
The global law firm sees a return of optimism this year, albeit cautious, while M&A activity will be largely unchanged from 2016, maybe slightly down. The second half of the year is likely to see an uptick in deals in readiness for a stronger 2018.
Uncertainty surrounding the new US president and Brexit are two key challenges facing the deals market this year with Baker’s global chair saying that increased transactions comes with a caveat: “…we need a benign Trump on trade and a soft-ish Brexit.”
China’s economy and low commodity prices were exacerbated by US and UK political change, resulting in a weak year for deals. IPOs were also lower last year but are predicted to rebound this year and for the following two years with tech and healthcare showing particular strength.
Another firm launches tech innovation team
Transatlantic law firm Mishcon de Reya has entered the legal technology space with the launch of an innovation fund for startups.
The MDR LAB incubator program will help firms work within the legal sector to enhance the development of their products. Several firms will be invited to Mishcon’s offices later this year to work alongside lawyers for ten weeks to gain valuable industry insight.
The law firm is keen to work with tech firms developing litigation, transactional law and business of law startups in particular.
The program has been launched in conjunction with innovation and specialist investors L Mark.
Simmons litigation partner relocates to Asia Pac
Simmons & Simmons has boosted its Asia Pacific litigation team with the relocation of highly regarded partner Marc Thorley from London to Hong Kong.
Thorley will focus on financial markets litigation, investigations and contentious regulatory, but will also work with the firm’s regional corporate litigation team.
