Slaughter and May mulls launch of US practice in Hong Kong

Meanwhile in Hong Kong some international firms are said to be exercising “stealth” downsizing - but Slaughter and May has reaffirmed its commitment to the jurisdiction, and is even thinking of hiring US lawyers to build up a US law capability there.

Many would jump to the conclusion that Asia’s bubble is about to burst. But we think it’s a time of change and certain adjustments need to be done. However, it’s a firm’s long-term commitment, patience and selective strategic decisions that will ultimately determine its fate in Asia.

Yun Kriegler, Asia editor
yun.kriegler@thelawyer.com

LEAD STORY

Slaughter and May mulls launch of US practice in Hong Kong

Slaughter and May is considering whether to add US law capability to its Hong Kong base by hiring US-qualified lawyers as part of its regular strategy review.

RAINMAKER Q&A

Sim Kwan Kiat, Rajah & Tann, Singapore

After I completed my Masters at NYU in 2002, I did a half-year attachment with Weil Gotshal & Manges in New York. It was an enriching experience, and I was able to get an overview of the US bankruptcy regime. That continues to be useful to this day, particularly in cross-border insolvency or restructuring cases.

IN-HOUSE PROFILE

Region to be cheerful

As UBS’s first Asia-Pacific general counsel, Kevin Wilkey is rekindling his love affair with Hong Kong, a land of opportunity and increasing competition

COUNTRY REPORT: SINGAPORE

Sing it loud

The Singapore government is opening the door to international firms and developing the lion city as a centre of arbitration

FOCUS

Friendly fire

Translating Slaughter and May’s ­European best friends approach to Asia-Pacific faces major challenges