A&O looks to usurp Linklaters in Singapore joint venture

The firm announced to its partnership today that it has held early-stage discussions with Allen & Gledhill with the aim of signing some kind of tie-up with the Singaporean firm. The firms are currently exploring what form that tie-up would take with an eye to local regulations.

Linklaters and Allen & Gledhill have had a joint venture for 10 years. It is understood that Allen & Gledhill has indicated to Linklaters that it is in talks with other firms. Linkaters did not return calls for comment.

In a statement a spokesperson for A&O said: “Allen & Overy has entered into preliminary talks with Allen & Gledhill which may, or may not, lead to proposals for a combination of the two firms, subject to any necessary regulatory approvals in Singapore.

“The strategic intent behind the talks is to establish whether a combination is possible which would enhance the market leading positions of both Allen & Overy and Allen & Gledhill in the Asia Pacific region and enhance Singapore’s position as a regional hub for high value legal services.

“Neither party expects to make any further comment pending finalisation of the discussions.”

A&O previously had a joint venture with Singapore’s Shook Lin & Bok, but broke that off after gaining a licence to practise local law in December 2008 (5 December 2008).

The talks between A&O and Allen & Gledhill have come after the magic circle firm’s senior partner David Morley did a two-month tour of Asia and the Middle East earlier this year (14 July 2011).