Corporate/M&A: International - Japan
What the team is known for
Herbert Smith Freehills offers a well-respected M&A team specialising in advising Japanese companies on outbound transactions including acquisitions and joint ventures into Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. The firm's strong client base includes financial institutions, trading houses and companies operating in the TMT and energy and mining sectors. The team often works alongside colleagues across Europe, the UK and the wider Asia-Pacific region in order to assist clients on cross-border matters.
Strengths
"The HSF Japan team are extremely responsive and at the same time proactive in their approach."
"The HSF team are very commercially aware and in tune with their clients' priorities, strategies and concerns."
Work highlights
Herbert Smith Freehills advised Mitsui on all aspects of its agreement with Aker Horizons to acquire a stake in Aker's subsidiary, Mainstream Renewable Power.
Notable practitioners
Graeme Preston is an experienced lawyer who is noted for his work assisting clients on major M&A deals. He specialises in cross-border transactions, especially those involving the TMT, healthcare and manufacturing sectors. "Graeme is well known in the region and is a trusted adviser to his clients in Japan and the region. He is particularly strong on M&A mandates with a TMT focus, but works across all sectors."
Joseph Fisher is an active corporate lawyer who has a strong track record of advising on cross-border M&A mandates. He wins praise from clients for his impressive client service. "He has been a pleasure to work with - responsive, reliable and to the point with his advice."
Damien Roberts is based in Sydney and is noted for his extensive track record of work in Japan, most notably assisting clients with M&A deals in the infrastructure and energy sectors. "His talent always helps us reach our goals and complete our mission."
Kyriakos Fountoukakos is head of the firm's Japan-focused competition team based in Brussels and his counsel is regularly sought on Japan-related mandates.