Capital Markets: Debt (International Firms)
Global Guide 2024 : China
Band 2
Email address
[email protected]Contact number
+852 2974 7000Chambers Review
A&O Shearman has a highly experienced Hong Kong-based debt team working on complex cross-border investment-grade matters and panda bond issuances. It additionally advises on social bond offerings and large MTN issuances. Its solid equity practice advises issuers and underwriters on cross-border IPOs and secondary issuances. The firm represents an enviable roster of international banks, Chinese financial entities and sovereign issuers. Key clients include Bank of Communications, Bank of China and Zhejiang HangKe Technology. On 1st May 2024, Allen & Overy and Shearman & Sterling merged to form A&O Shearman.
The Hong Kong branch of A&O Shearman has an impressive South Korea desk, working with the Seoul office to provide a one-stop shop for Korean clients. It advises on notable bond issuances as well as equity placements.
Work Highlights
- The firm advised the lead managers on Hong Kong Mortgage Corporation's issuance of HKD8 billion 5.00% notes due 2024.
- The firm advised Shandong Boan Biotechnology on its spin-off from Luye Pharma Group and a separate listing of the H-shares of Boan Biotech on the Main Board of the SEHK.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"The team I encountered possesses a broad and in-depth knowledge of bond products, especially those relevant to Greater China clients. I would say their service quality is best in class in this market."
"The firm is always able to provide professional advice to the issuer, as well as other parties, in a Hong Kong IPO transaction. They have extensive experience in Hong Kong capital markets and are able to apply their experience to solving different novel issues."
"The team I encountered possesses a broad and in-depth knowledge of bond products, especially those relevant to Greater China clients. I would say their service quality is best in class in this market."
"The firm is always able to provide professional advice to the issuer, as well as other parties, in a Hong Kong IPO transaction. They have extensive experience in Hong Kong capital markets and are able to apply their experience to solving different novel issues."
Notable Practitioners
Agnes Tsang of A&O Shearman's Hong Kong office continues to handle a broad spectrum of debt capital markets mandates, lately advising on issuances of social, panda and sovereign bonds.
"Agnes is the go-to person for all technical questions. She never gets tired servicing her clients."
"I appreciate Agnes's practical approach to transactions and her responsiveness."
John Lee is a partner at A&O Shearman's debt capital markets practice in Hong Kong and frequently acts on the bond issuances of banks and property companies, often advising the lead managers and underwriters.
"John is sophisticated and possesses a sound understanding of legal knowledge while balancing commercial needs."
Lee Kyungwon is a partner in A&O Shearman's Hong Kong capital markets team and handles a range of high-yield debt mandates for issuers, initial purchasers and lead managers.
Gilbert Li has a broad ECM practice which, though not limited by sector, is strong in biotech.
Jonathan Hsui advises issuers, placing agents, sponsors and underwriters on share issuances and placements.
Lina Lee primarily advises sponsors and lenders on SEHK listings, as well as advising on share placements and secondary block trades. She frequently acts for banks, investment vehicles and securities firms.
"Lina is not only equipped with extensive Hong Kong capital markets expertise but is also very hands-on and always able to provide valuable insights."
"I trust her professional advice and truly believe having her on the transactions, regardless of being the issuer counsel or sponsor counsel, is always a big plus."
Ranked Lawyers at
A&O Shearman
China