Department profile
A&O Shearman

Capital Markets: Derivatives & Structured Products (International Firms)

Greater China Region Guide 2026 : China

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A&O Shearman

Rankings

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Capital Markets: Derivatives & Structured Products (International Firms) - China

Band 3

What the Team is Known For

A&O Shearman offers a respected Hong Kong-based team advising on a range of complex and novel cross-border transactions, including structured credit and structured equity matters. The team is also highly active in advising on margin finance, syndicated loans and bond repackaging matters, and very experienced in advising on OTC derivatives regulations, with particular expertise in issues relating to the implementation of the European Market Infrastructure Regulation. The team is also well versed in credit default and total return swap structures, as well as collar financing. It continues to have strong relationships with regulators, including the ISDA. The firm advises an enviable list of leading international banks, as well as Chinese corporates and funds.

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Work Highlights

Provided by Chambers

  • A&O Shearman acted as drafting counsel advising AirAsia as issuer on the issue of USD443 million revenue bonds.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • It's a high calibre team that is able to deal with very complicated matters and also able to work well with other local counsel to synthesise advice and prepare difficult transactions documents.

    Capital Markets: Derivatives & Structured Products (International Firms) respondentGreater China Region

  • They have a good understanding of the commercial aspects and dynamics.

    Capital Markets: Derivatives & Structured Products (International Firms) respondentGreater China Region

  • This team is a dedicated and experienced team with first-class ability. They have a rare combination of technical knowledge and client service expertise.

    Capital Markets: Derivatives & Structured Products (International Firms) respondentGreater China Region

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • James Yao
    James Yao

    James Yao

    James Yao is based in A&O Shearman's Hong Kong office and advises on derivatives and structured product transactions across a spectrum of asset classes. He is also noted for his Chinese language proficiency and ability to connect with PRC clients.

    • He's very sensible and will call a spade a spade and won't hesitate to tell you when there's an issue. He's very frank and forthright; that transparency is very helpful.

      Capital Markets: Derivatives & Structured Products (International Firms) respondentGreater China Region

    • James is really good technically and has a lot of experience.

      Capital Markets: Derivatives & Structured Products (International Firms) respondentGreater China Region

    • He's very approachable and knows his stuff.

      Capital Markets: Derivatives & Structured Products (International Firms) respondentGreater China Region
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Ranked Individuals at A&O Shearman (1)

China

  • Profile image of James Yao

    James Yao

    Capital Markets: Derivatives & Structured Products (International Firms)

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