Highly regarded for its expert handling of cross-border SPAC and de-SPAC transactions, in conjunction with a strong corporate finance offering, the Kirkland & Ellis International LLP team is renowned for its ‘responsiveness’ and ’professionalism’. The firm regularly advises on major take-private transactions and sales of shares, with the duo of Joey Chau and Brian Ho spearheading the practice from Hong Kong. Mengyu Lu is knowledgeable on multi-jurisdictional M&A transactions, while Jesse Sheley and Peng Yu predominantly concentrate on the TMT and life sciences spaces. All lawyers mentioned are Hong Kong-based.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘K&E can quickly understand the complex business models of relevant cases, mobilize professionals in related fields, and provide input from the early discussions on the business model architecture of the project. It also supports the tracking of relevant effective terms from business negotiations and contract drafting to the completion of the transaction.’

  • ‘Based on his professional understanding of various business models in the field of mergers and acquisitions, Yu Peng provided us with various professional suggestions in a special cooperation case I was responsible for. He personally participated in many business negotiations, evaluated potential risks, and set them in legal terms.’

  • ‘Overall, we are very satisfied with the qualities and responsiveness displayed by KE, particularly through our main contact partner Joey Chau. Throughout our collaboration, KE has consistently exhibited clear responsibilities and professionalism across various projects. We have been particularly impressed by their expertise in the areas of M&A, capital markets, and financing.’

  • ‘Joey Chau's proficiency in HK takeover codes, among other areas, has been noteworthy. Ms. Chau and her team have demonstrated exceptional abilities to think creatively, often contributing significantly to the progress our deal. Her commitment to thinking situations from the client's perspective sets her apart from other competent lawyers we have previously worked with in the region.’

Key clients

  • Webull Corporation
  • L Catterton Asia Acquisition Corp
  • The Independent Board Committee of Vinda International
  • Link REIT
  • GL Capital
  • ZG Group
  • NIO Inc.
  • NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited
  • Wynn Macau, Limited
  • AP Acquisition Corp
  • MoneyHero Limited
  • Alibaba
  • Boyu Capital
  • CIMC Vehicles (Group) Co., Ltd.
  • Skyworth Group Limited
  • The Independent Board Committee of ENM Holdings Limited
  • Lai Sun Group including specifically Lai Fung and eSun
  • The LYCRA Company
  • Crescent Point Capital
  • J.P. Morgan Securities (Asia Pacific) Limited

Work highlights

  • Advising Webull Corporation, a leading digital investment platform, on its business combination with SK Growth Opportunities Corporation, a publicly traded special purpose acquisition company.
  • Advised L Catterton Asia Acquisition Corp, a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) formed by affiliates of L Catterton, a leading global consumer-focused investment firm, in its business combination with Lotus Technology, Inc, a leading global luxury electric vehicle maker that operates under the iconic British brand, Lotus.
  • Advised ZG Group on the first De-SPAC Transaction in Hong Kong, by way of a business combination with Aquila Acquisition Corporation.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Joey Chau, Brian Ho

Other key lawyers

Mengyu Lu, Jesse Sheley, Peng Yu