Mori Hamada & Matsumoto Tokyo Office
Client Satisfaction‘s corporate and M&A team advises major clients across various industries, including blue-chip companies, banks, and private equity funds. ’Complemented by a deep reservoir of expertise within each area,’ the team is jointly led by Hajime Tanahashi and Gaku Ishiwata, who are well-versed in private equity, corporate governance, and venture financing matters. Other key members include Atsushi Oishi, who is a taxation specialist; Koji Toshima, who is known for his expertise in classified shares; and Akira Matsushita, who focuses on private equity and cross-border M&A matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The law firm has a large number of experienced and highly qualified lawyers. They specifically helped us with appropriately assembling a legal team for our M&A negotiations.'
‘MHM offers an impressively broad range of coverage across multiple legal disciplines, complemented by a deep reservoir of expertise within each area. This extensive breadth and depth ensure that clients receive highly specialized and effective legal solutions tailored to their unique needs. Whether dealing with complex corporate transactions, intricate intellectual property issues, or challenging litigation, the firm's robust team of seasoned professionals consistently delivers results that exceed expectations. Their commitment to excellence and client satisfaction makes them a standout choice for comprehensive legal support.’
'The firm has a thorough knowledge of Japanese law, coupled with responsiveness and excellent client service.'
'Partners Hajime Tanahashi and Gaku Ishiwata have detailed knowledge with no oversight. Mr. Tanahashi has private equity clients and understands their risks and Mr. Ishiwata has a lot of experience in hostile takeover transactions, in particular, the defence side. Both of them have the authority to convince clients that their advice is appropriate and right.'
‘MHM is distinguished by its deep understanding of both business contexts and strategic necessities, which positions it uniquely to support clients' objectives effectively. Their approach is distinctly client-centric, ensuring that all legal advice and actions are closely aligned with the client's needs and goals. The team's strong commitment to excellence is evident in every interaction, reflecting their dedication to not just meet, but exceed client expectations. With their expert guidance, clients can navigate complex legal landscapes confidently and achieve their business aims with precision and agility.’
'The quality of lawyers is excellent. The firm has a capacity and experience and can utilize these assets effectively.'
‘The team has a good balance of experienced senior lawyers and talented junior lawyers. They understand legal practices very well and their advice is useful, well elaborated based on detailed research and their experiences. Thus, it is very comfortable to work with them.'
‘Yoshihiro Kojima is an experienced legal professional and one of the best M&A lawyers in Japan. His advice is valuable and based on his expertise in matters such as sell side, buy side, and cross border situation.'
Key clients
- Softbank Group Corp.
- Hitachi, Ltd.
- Morgan Stanley MUFG Securities
- Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group
- Nomura Securities Co., Ltd.
- Houlihan Lokey
- Z Holdings Corporation (the operator of Yahoo Japan)
- Mitsubishi Motors Corporation
- UBS Asset Management AG
- JIC Capital, Ltd.
Work highlights
- Advised Mizuho Securities on Mizuho’s acquisition of additional stock of Rakuten Securities.
- Advised JIC Capital on its acquisition of JSR Corporation, a TSE-listed chip materials maker.
- Advised JIC Capital on its acquisition of Shinko Electric Industries, a TSE-listed chip-packaging company.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
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Leading partners: Bengoshi
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Hajime Tanahashi
Mori Hamada & Matsumoto Tokyo Office
Akira Matsushita
Mori Hamada & Matsumoto Tokyo OfficePractice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Hajime Tanahashi, Gaku Ishiwata