ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013 by ACQ5 Magazine

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Since 2003 ACQ, one of the world’s leading markets magazines has singled out the outstanding institutions and individuals in the sector. Over the years, the Awards for Excellence have evolved with the markets they cover. ACQ’s Awards now incorporate more global product categories than ANY other title in the arena, best-inclass awards in all regions around the world. All the awards have one central theme – they recognise institutions and individuals that demonstrate leadership, innovation, and momentum in the markets in which they excel. In this volatile and unpredictable environment, the need for business to be forward thinking and innovative has never been greater: the need for managers to think and plan beyond the short term; the need for workforces to embrace change; the need for companies, large and small, to consider how to build sustainable enterprises in a world where competition is tougher than ever. ACQ Magazine is the longest and most established magazine of its kind! Anybody can make that claim, but ACQ really is different. Serving the markets for a decade, which other publications can draw on such experience?

ACQ has been celebrating achievement, innovation and brilliance in our annual awards for much of that time. Every year, we seek the assistance of our tens of thousands of readers to nominate and recognise industry leaders, eminent individuals, exemplary teams and distinguished organisations, which we believe represent the benchmark of achievement and best practice in a variety of fields. We strive to recognise an ever-widening spectrum of services, markets, industries and organisations. We believe that by consulting our readers we can better identify the groups that are confronting the issues which face us at this complex juncture, and our awards will rise above the status of participation certificate and actually be an endorsement of their work. This year, awards again feature candidates from Americas, Asia Pacific, Europe and the Middle East/ Africa. It is important to note that some notable examples are recognised for their International presence where geography is no barrier to their skills and performance. Finally, we would like to express our sincere gratitude and appreciation to our principal sponsors, Merrill Datasite for being so generous and for helping us make this event so successful in 2013.

HOW TO REACH ACQ ACQ welcomes news and views from its readers. Correspondence should be sent to customerservice@acqmagazine.com For more information about ACQ visit www.acqmagazine.com. ACQ Copyright © 2013 ACQ is published under licence from Metropolis International Group Ltd. No part of this magazine may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without permission. SAFE HARBOR The interviews in this publication may contain certain forward looking statements with respect to the financial condition, results of operations of the businesses profiled. These statements and forecasts involve risk and uncertainty because they relate to events and depend upon circumstances that will occur in the future. There are a number of factors which could cause actual results or developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward looking statements and forecasts. The statements may have been made with reference to forecast price changes, economic conditions and the current regulatory environment. Nothing in these announcements should be construed as a profit forecast. ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

AMERICAS AGILITH CAPITAL LLC - CANADA Ŕ FUND MANAGEMENT FIRM OF THE YEAR

CREDIT SUISSE - US WINNER Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY BANK OF THE YEAR - MINORITIES

ARIAS & MUNOZ - COSTA RICA Ŕ GENDER DIVERSITY INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR

CREEL, GARCÍA-CUÉLLAR, AIZA Y ENRÍQUEZ, SC - MEXICO Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

ARIAS, FÁBREGA & FÁBREGA - PANAMA Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

CROSS BORDER STRATEGIES LLC - US Ŕ DEBT FINANCING ADVISORY OF THE YEAR (MID MARKET)

ATLAS INSURANCE MANAGEMENT - US Ŕ INDEPENDENT INSURANCE Ŕ MANAGEMENT FIRM OF THE YEAR

D. MARK SHEETS, BASS, BERRY & SIMS PLC - US (TENNESSEE) Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - COMMERCIAL TRANSACTIONS

ATLAS INSURANCE MANAGEMENT (CAYMAN) LIMITED - CAYMAN ISLANDS Ŕ INDEPENDENT INSURANCE MANAGEMENT FIRM OF THE YEAR BAKER & HOSTETLER LLP - US (NEW YORK) Ŕ '6-- 4&37*$& -"8 '*3. 0' 5)& :&"3 Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

D. MARK SHEETS, BASS, BERRY & SIMS PLC - US (TENNESSEE) Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - REAL ESTATE/REAL PROPERTY DANTAS, LEE BROCK & CAMARGO ADVOGADOS - BRAZIL Ŕ FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR DANTAS, LEE BROCK & CAMARGO ADVOGADOS - BRAZIL Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

BARTLIT BECK HERMAN PALENCHAR & SCOTT LLP - US Ŕ PRODUCT LIABILITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

DANTAS, LEE BROCK & CAMARGO ADVOGADOS - BRAZIL Ŕ LITIGATION - MOST RESPECTED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

BASILIO ADVOGADOS - BRAZIL Ŕ ARBITRATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

DAOUST VUKOVICH LLP - CANADA Ŕ REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

BDO - US Ŕ BUSINESS RESTRUCTURING ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ FINANCIAL DUE DILIGENCE & TRANSACTION ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR

DAVID A. THORNTON, BASS, BERRY & SIMS PLC - US (TENNESSEE) Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - EMPLOYEE BENEFITS & EXEC. COMP.

BENNETT JONES LLP - CANADA Ŕ COMMERCIAL LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BENNETT JONES LLP - CANADA Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BOB F. THOMPSON, BASS, BERRY & SIMS PLC - US (TENNESSEE) Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - BANKING & FINANCIAL SERVICES BORDEN LADNER GERVAIS LLP - CANADA Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BRACEWELL & GIULIANI - US (TEXAS) Ŕ BANKING & FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BUFETE AGUIRRE - BOLIVIA Ŕ CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BUSTAMANTE & BUSTAMANTE - ECUADOR Ŕ ENERGY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR C&L ATTORNEYS, SC - MEXICO Ŕ IP LITIGATION FIRM OF THE YEAR

DEL VALLE S.C - MEXICO Ŕ CORPORATE TAX LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR DELOITTE - US Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY FINANCIAL ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR DELOITTE TOUCHE TOHMATSU - BRAZIL Ŕ TAX ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR DELOITTE TOUCHE TOHMATSU - LATIN AMERICA Ŕ OVERALL TAX ADVISORY OF THE YEAR DEVORE & DEMARCO LLP - US Ŕ BOUTIQUE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR (IP) DIAGEO - LATIN AMERICA Ŕ COMPANY OF THE YEAR DIGITAL CAPITAL ADVISORS, LLC - US Ŕ CORPORATE FINANCE BOUTIQUE OF THE YEAR (TMT) DINEFF TRADEMARK LAW LIMITED - US (ILLINOIS) Ŕ TRADEMARK LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

CALL & JENSEN, APC - US (CALIFORNIA) Ŕ EMPLOYMENT & LABOR LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

DR. JOSE MEYTHALER, SENIOR PARTNER, LARREÁTEGUI MEYTHALER & ZAMBRANO - ECUADOR Ŕ DOMINANCE LAWYER OF THE YEAR

CALLENDERS & CO. - BAHAMAS Ŕ REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

DRESNER PARTNERS - US Ŕ MID MARKET INVESTMENT BANK OF THE YEAR

CAMPBELLS - CAYMAN ISLANDS Ŕ INSOLVENCY AND RESTRUCTURING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

DUMONT BERGMAN BIDER & CO., S.C - MEXICO Ŕ ANTI-COUNTERFEITING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

CAPLIN & DRYSDALE - US Ŕ INTERNATIONAL TAX LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ TAX LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

DUMONT BERGMAN BIDER & CO., S.C - MEXICO Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

CAPTIVE MANAGEMENT INITIATIVES, LTD - CAYMAN ISLANDS Ŕ BOUTIQUE CAPTIVE MANAGEMENT CONSULTANT OF THE YEAR CASSELI LAW FIRM - PARAGUAY Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR CASTRO LEIVA RENDON CRIALES ABOGADOS SAS - COLOMBIA Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR CATHERINE MUTALA, PARTNE - OYEN WIGGS GREEN & MUTALA LLP - CANADA Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR

WINNER

EHS SUPPORT - US Ŕ ENVIRONMENTAL, HEALTH, AND SAFETY ADVISORY OF THE YEAR EPSTEIN BECKER & GREEN PC - US Ŕ HEALTHCARE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR EPSTEIN BECKER & GREEN, P.C. - US Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ERNST & YOUNG - BRAZIL Ŕ HUMAN CAPITAL ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR

CERVANTES SAINZ SC - MEXICO Ŕ LABOUR & EMPLOYMENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

ERNST & YOUNG, (PISTRELLI, HENRY MARTIN Y ASOCIADOS S.R.L.) ARGENTINA Ŕ TRANSFER PRICING ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR

CLARO Y CÍA - CHILE Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

ESTUDIO BECCAR VARELA - ARGENTINA Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

CONSORTIUM - CENTRO AMÉRICA ABOGADOS - CENTRAL AMERICA Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

ESTUDIO JURIDICO OTERO LAW FIRM - CHILE Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

CONSORTIUM - CENTRO AMÉRICA ABOGADOS - EL SALVADOR Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

FELIX R. DOWSLEY, BASS, BERRY & SIMS PLC - US (TENNESSEE) Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - COMMERCIAL TRANSACTIONS

CONSORTIUM - TABOADA & ASOCIADOS - NICARAGUA Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

FELIX R. DOWSLEY, BASS, BERRY & SIMS PLC - US (TENNESSEE) Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - LENDING & SECURED TRANSACTIONS

CORNERSTONE RESEARCH - US Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY CONSULTANCY OF THE YEAR Ŕ DIVERSITY FOR WOMEN

FENWICK & WEST LLP - US Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

CORNERSTONE RESEARCH - US Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY CONSULTANCY OF THE YEAR - LGBT CORPORATE RESULTS, INC. - US Ŕ SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR CORREAGUBBINS - CHILE Ŕ ENVIRONMENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR COSTA, WAISBERG E TAVARES PAES SOCIEDADE DE ADVOGADOS - BRAZIL Ŕ INSOLVENCY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR COSTA, WAISBERG E TAVARES PAES SOCIEDADE DE ADVOGADOS - BRAZIL Ŕ RESTRUCTURING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR CRECE, BANCA DE INVERSION - MEXICO Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY ADVISORY OF THE YEAR CREDIT SUISSE - US Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY BANK OF THE YEAR - DIVERSITY FOR WOMEN Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY BANK OF THE YEAR - LGBT

FENWICK & WEST LLP - US Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - DIVERSITY FOR WOMEN FILLMORE RILEY LLP - CANADA Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR FINESA REAL ESTATE GROUP - US Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY FIRM OF THE YEAR (REAL ESTATE) FINNEGAN, HENDERSON, FARABOW, GARRETT & DUNNER, LLP - US Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - MINORITIES FITZPATRICK & COMPANY - CANADA Ŕ MEDIATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR FITZPATRICK, CELLA, HARPER & SCINTO - US (NEW YORK) Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR FOLEY HOAG LLP - US Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - DIVERSITY FOR WOMEN

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2012

FULBROOK MANAGEMENT LLC - US Ŕ THIRD PARTY LITIGATION ADVISORY OF THE YEAR

LAW OFFICE OF NIALENA CARAVASOS, LLCWINNER - US (PENNSYLVANIA) Ŕ CRIMINAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

GEORGE H. MASTERSON, BASS, BERRY & SIMS PLC - US (TENNESSEE) Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - MUNICIPAL & PUBLIC FINANCING

LEWIN & WILLS - COLOMBIA Ŕ CORPORATE TAX LAWYER OF THE YEAR

GEORGE H. MASTERSON, BASS, BERRY & SIMS PLC - US (TENNESSEE) Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - PUBLIC FINANCE

LISITEN ASSOCIATES BUSINESS BROKERS - US (NEW YORK) Ŕ BUSINESS BROKER OF THE YEAR

GOLUB CAPITAL - US Ŕ CREDIT ASSET MANAGER OF THE YEAR

LITTLER DE LA VEGA Y CONDE S.C. - MEXICO Ŕ GENDER DIVERSITY INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR

GORDON & REES LLP - US Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

LITWAK & PARTNERS - URUGUAY Ŕ OFFSHORE INVESTMENT FUNDS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

GREENBERG TRAURIG - MEXICO Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

LLOREDA CAMACHO & CO - COLOMBIA Ŕ DIVERSITY INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR

GREGORY P. JOSEPH - GREGORY P. JOSEPH LAW OFFICES LLC - US Ŕ LITIGATION LAWYER OF THE YEAR

LOBO & DE RIZZO ADVOGADOS - BRAZIL Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

GREGORY P. JOSEPH LAW OFFICES LLC - US Ŕ LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

LOBO & IBEAS - BRAZIL Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

GUNDERSON DETTMER STOUGH VILLENEUVE FRANKLIN & HACHIGIAN, LLP - US Ŕ BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

LUCY CRUZ DE QUIÑONES - QUIÑONES CRUZ ABOGADOS - COLOMBIA Ŕ TAX LAWYER OF THE YEAR

HANNA HASL-KELCHNER, THE NO NONSENSE LAWYER - US Ŕ LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY OF THE YEAR

MAALOUF ASHFORD & TALBOT, LLP - US Ŕ AVIATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ BANKING & FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ CAPITAL MARKETS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ CROSS BORDER LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ ENERGY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ INTERNATIONAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ INTERNATIONAL TRADE & FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ INTERNET & E-COMMERCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ ISLAMIC FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ MINING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ OIL & GAS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ SHIPPING & MARITIME LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ US - TAX LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

HARTER SECREST & EMERY LLP - US (NEW YORK) Ŕ DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR HARTER SECREST & EMERY LLP - US (NEW YORK) Ŕ MID MARKET LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR HEDGEMARK INTERNATIONAL, LLC - AMERICAS Ŕ FUNDS PLATFORM OF THE YEAR HERRICK, FEINSTEIN LLP - US Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR HUGHES HUBBARD & REED LLP - LATIN AMERICA Ŕ INTERNATIONAL COUNSEL - CORPORATE & FINANCE (FLORIDA-BASED) HUNTER LITIGATION CHAMBERS - CANADA Ŕ NICHE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR (LITIGATION) IJW MANAGEMENT INC. - CANADA Ŕ CORPORATE FINANCE BOUTIQUE OF THE YEAR IMS CONSULTING GROUP - US Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY CONSULTANCY OF THE YEAR – LGBT IMS CONSULTING GROUP - US Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY CONSULTANCY OF THE YEAR – MINORITIES IZURIETA MORA BOWEN ESTUDIO JURÍDICO - ECUADOR Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR J. ANDREW GODDARD, BASS, BERRY & SIMS PLC - US (TENNESSEE) Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - ENVIRONMENTAL Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - GOV’T RELATIONS, LEGISLATION & LOBBYING Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - INTERNATIONAL LAW Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - WILLS, TRUSTS, ESTATES & PROBATE JAMES C. GOOCH, BASS, BERRY & SIMS PLC - US - (TENNESSEE) Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - WILLS, TRUSTS, ESTATES & PROBATE JATA – J.A. TREVIÑO ABOGADOS - MEXICO Ŕ CROSS-BORDER LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR JÁUREGUI Y NAVARRETE - MEXICO Ŕ TELECOMMUNICATIONS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ MOST TRUSTED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR JOHN A. GOOD, BASS, BERRY & SIMS PLC - US (TENNESSEE) Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - CORPORATE FINANCE & CAPITAL MARKETS JOHN A. TARANTINO, ADLER POLLOCK & SHEEHAN - US (RHODE ISLAND) Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - LITIGATION JOHN A. TARANTINO, ADLER POLLOCK & SHEEHAN - US (RHODE ISLAND) Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - TORT LITIGATION/PRODUCT LIABILITY JOHNSON & BELL, LTD - US (ILLINOIS) Ŕ COMMERCIAL BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR JUAN CARLOS VARELA & ASOCIADOS - VENEZUELA Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR KEATING MUETHING & KLEKAMP - US Ŕ MID SIZED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR KNOBBE, MARTENS, OLSON & BEAR, LLP - US Ŕ FULL SERVIVE IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR KRYS GLOBAL - BAHAMAS Ŕ CORPORATE RECOVERY & INSOLVENCY ADVISORY OF THE YEAR KRYS GLOBA - BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS Ŕ FORENSIC ACCOUNTING ADVISORY OF THE YEAR Ŕ FINANCIAL SERVICES LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR L O BAPTISTA SCHMIDT VALOIS MIRANDA FERREIRA AGEL - BRAZIL Ŕ ANTI-TRUST LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ COMMERCIAL ARBITRATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

MARASHLIAN & DONAHUE, LLC (THE COMMLAW GROUP) - US Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR MARC JACOBSON, P.C. - US (NEW YORK) Ŕ BOUTIQUE MEDIA LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR MARVAL, O’FARRELL & MAIRAL - ARGENTINA Ŕ MOST TRUSTED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR WINNER MARY BETH FORTUGNO, BASS, BERRY & SIMS PLC - US (TENNESSEE) Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - HEALTHCARE & HOSPITAL LAW MAXIMUS - US Ŕ COMPANY OF THE YEAR (PUBLIC SERVICE) MAYNARD, COOPER & GALE, P.C. - US (ALABAMA) Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR MCCOLL PARTNERS - US INDEPENDENT INVESTMENT BANK OF THE YEAR MCCULLOUGH O’CONNOR IRWIN LLP - CANADA Ŕ CORPORATE AND SECURITIES LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR MERSAN ABOGADOS - PARAGUAY Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR METROPOLITAN CAPITAL - COLOMBIA Ŕ FINANCIAL SERVICES BOUTIQUE OF THE YEAR MICHAEL D. SONTAG, BASS, BERRY & SIMS PLC - US (TENNESSEE) Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - TAXATION MIDDLETON REUTLINGER - US (LOUISVILLE) Ŕ TRADEMARKS & IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR MILARÉ ADVOGADOS - BRAZIL Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR MITRANI CABALLERO OJAM & RUIZ MORENO - ARGENTINA Ŕ DIVERSITY INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR Ŕ M&A FIRM OF THE YEAR MJM - BERMUDA Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR MOELIS & COMPANY - US Ŕ BOUTIQUE INVESTMENT BANK OF THE YEAR (ASSET MANAGEMENT) NEAL, GERBER & EISENBERG LLP - US Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

L. WEAREN HUGHES, BASS, BERRY & SIMS PLC - US (TENNESSEE) Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - CONSTRUCTION & ENGINEERING

NEAL, GERBER & EISENBERG LLP - US (CHICAGO) Ŕ FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

LANER MUCHIN, LTD. - US (CHICAGO) Ŕ EMPLOYMENT LITIGATION FIRM OF THE YEAR

NELSON MULLINS RILEY & SCARBOROUGH LLP - US Ŕ (SOUTH CAROLINA) - COMMERCIAL BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

LARIOS & ASOCIADOS - MEXICO Ŕ COMMERCIAL BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

NELSON MULLINS RILEY & SCARBOROUGH LLP - US (SOUTH CAROLINA) Ŕ INDEPENDENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

LAURA COLLADA SALCIDO - DUMONT BERGMAN BIDER & CO SC - MEXICO Ŕ TRADEMARK LAWYER OF THE YEAR

NELSON MULLINS RILEY & SCARBOROUGH LLP - US Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2012

AMERICAS NELSON MULLINS RILEY & SCARBOROUGH LLP - US (ATLANTA) Ŕ M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

RDJ FINANCIAL ARCHITECTS - US Ŕ EXECUTIVE PLANNING ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR

NEVES, SOARES & BATTENDIERI ADVOGADOS - BRAZIL Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ TAX LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

REIS ROYS - CANADA Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

NICHOLSON Y CANO ABOGADOS - ARGENTINA Ŕ INDEPENDENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR NORTON ROSE LLP - CANADA Ŕ EMPLOYMENT & LABOUR - MOST RESPECTED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ -EADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR OBLON, SPIVAK, MCCLELLAND, MAIER & NEUSTADT, L.L.P - US (VIRGINIA) Ŕ PATENTS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

RICHARD J CHARNEY, NORTON ROSE CANADA LLP - CANADA Ŕ LEADING LABOUR LAWYER OF THE YEAR RIVERA BELDEN & GARCÍA SÁNCHEZ - MEXICO Ŕ ASSET FINANCE - MOST RESPECTED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR RIVERA GAXIOLA Y ASOCIADOS, S.C. - MEXICO Ŕ BANKRUPTCY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR RIVERA GAXIOLA Y ASOCIADOS, S.C. - MEXICO Ŕ LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

O’MELVENY & MYERS LLP - US Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

ROBERT L. BREWER, BASS, BERRY & SIMS PLC - US (TENNESSEE) Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - E-COMMERCE & Ŕ INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - IP Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - ADR (ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION) Ŕ Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - APPELLATE Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - LABOR & EMPLOYMENT

ORIHUELA ABOGADOS - PERU Ŕ DIVERSITY INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR

ROBLES MAC EACHEN Y ASOCIADOS, S.C. - MEXICO Ŕ INWARD INVESTMENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

OSLER, HOSKIN & HARCOURT LLP - CANADA LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

ROTHWELL, FIGG & MANBECK - US Ŕ PHARMACEUTICAL LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

OVERTON THOMPSON, BASS, BERRY & SIMS PLC - US Ŕ (TENNESSEE) LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - LITIGATION

RUDDY LAW OFFICE, PLLC. - US (WASHINGTON DC) Ŕ COMMERCIAL BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

OVERTON THOMPSON, BASS, BERRY & SIMS PLC - US (TENNESSEE) Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR Ŕ TORT LITIGATION/PRODUCT LIABILITY

SADIS & GOLDBERG LLP - US Ŕ PRIVATE FUNDS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

OBLON, SPIVAK, MCCLELLAND, MAIER & NEUSTADT, L.L.P - US Ŕ COPYRIGHT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR OGIER - CAYMAN ISLANDS Ŕ FIDUCIARY ADVISORY OF THE YEAR

PACHECO COTO - COSTA RICA Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

SCHIFF HARDIN LLP - US Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

PALACIOS LLERAS - COLOMBIA Ŕ ARBITRATION AND LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

SEYFARTH SHAW LLP - US Ŕ CLIENT SERVICE INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR Ŕ CONSTRUCTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

PARDINI & ASOCIADOS - PANAMA Ŕ M&A / CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

SIDLEY AUSTIN LLP - US Ŕ MOST INNOVATIVE GENDER DIVERSITY INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR

PARRISWHITTAKER - BAHAMAS Ŕ CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ SHIPPING & MARITIME LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

SIMON-KUCHER & PARTNERS STRATEGY AND MARKETING CONSULTANTS - US Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY CONSULTANCY OF THE YEAR - DIVERSITY FOR WOMEN

PATTON BOGGS LLP - US (WASHINGTON, DC) Ŕ ISLAMIC FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR PATTON, MORENO & ASVAT - PANAMA Ŕ INDEPENDENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR PAUL G. JENNINGS, BASS, BERRY & SIMS PLC - US (TENNESSEE) Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - BANKRUPTCY & INSOLVENCY PEARL LAW GROUP - US (SAN FRANCISCO, CA) Ŕ IMMIGRATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR PEDRO MIGUEL AND ASSOCIATED ATTORNEYS - BRAZIL Ŕ CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ SPORTS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR PEGASUS INTELLECTUAL CAPITAL SOLUTIONS LLC - US (CHICAGO) Ŕ INVESTMENT BANKING BOUTIQUE OF THE YEAR PERINI-HEGARTY & ASSOCIATES, P.C - US (MASSACHUSETTS) Ŕ CROSS BORDER LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR PETERS ADVISORS - US Ŕ TRANSFER PRICING ADVISORY OF THE YEAR PILLSBURY WINTHROP SHAW PITTMAN LLP - US Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - LGBT

SIMON-KUCHER & PARTNERS STRATEGY AND MARKETING CONSULTANTS Ŕ US - LEADING DIVERSITY CONSULTANCY OF THE YEAR - LGBT SIMON-KUCHER & PARTNERS STRATEGY AND MARKETING CONSULTANTS Ŕ US - LEADING DIVERSITY CONSULTANCY OF THE YEAR - MINORITIES SMITH, GAMBRELL & RUSSELL, LLP - US (GEORGIA) Ŕ ANTITRUST LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ BANKING & FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ CONSTRUCTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ CORPORATE/M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR SOLOMON HARRIS - CAYMAN ISLANDS Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR SULLIVAN & CROMWELL LLP - US Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR – LGBT T. STEPHEN C. TAYLOR, BASS, BERRY & SIMS PLC - US (TENNESSEE) Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - INSURANCE & REINSURANCE THE ENTREPRENEUR LAW CENTER - US (FLORIDA) Ŕ INDEPENDENT BOUTIQUE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR TODD J. ROLAPP, BASS, BERRY & SIMS PLC - US (TENNESSEE) Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - BUSINESS, CORPORATE & SECURITIES

PORTILLA, RUY-DÍAZ & AGUILAR S.C. ABOGADOS - MEXICO Ŕ FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

ULMER & BERNE LLP - US Ŕ BIOSCIENCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS S. C. - MEXICO Ŕ TRANSFER PRICING ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR

USI INSURANCE SERVICES - US Ŕ INSURANCE BROKER OF THE YEAR

PRIETOCARRIZOSA - COLOMBIA Ŕ BEST MENTORING PROGRAM IN LAW Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

VAHG VÁZQUEZ ALDANA, HERNÁNDEZ GÓMEZ & ASSOCIATES - MEXICO Ŕ M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ MID-MARKET CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

PROCUREMENT LAW OFFICE - CANADA Ŕ PUBLIC PROCUREMENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR PROSEK PARTNERS - US Ŕ FINANCIAL PR AGENCY OF THE YEAR QUARLES & BRADY LLP - US Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - DIVERSITY FOR WOMEN Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - MINORITIES

VELLA PUGLIESI BUOSI E GUIDONI - BRAZIL Ŕ M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR V-ROOMS - US Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY DATA ROOM PROVIDER OF THE YEAR WALKERS’ GLOBAL INVESTMENT FUNDS GROUP - CAYMAN ISLANDS Ŕ INVESTMENT FUNDS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

QUATRE RECURSOS HUMANOS - BRAZIL Ŕ CORPORATE RECRUITMENT SPECIALIST OF THE YEAR

WALLACE W. DIETZ, BASS, BERRY & SIMS PLC - US (TENNESSEE) Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - WHITE COLLAR CRIME

R. DALE GRIMES, BASS, BERRY & SIMS PLC - US (TENNESSEE) Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - ANTITRUST Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - COMMUNICATIONS Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - ENERGY Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - PUBLIC UTILITIES Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR - TELECOMMUNICATIONS

WELLS FARGO INSURANCE TRUST SERVICES - US Ŕ INSURANCE TRUST TEAM OF THE YEAR

R. DANNY HUNTINGTON - ROTHWELL, FIGG & MANBECK - US (WASHINGTON DC) Ŕ IPATTORNEY OF THE YEAR

WILLIAM BLAIR & COMPANY, L.L.C. - US Ŕ MID-MARKET FINANCIAL ADVISOR OF THE YEAR Ŕ WEALTH MANAGER OF THE YEAR

RAMOS, ZUANON E MANASSERO ADVOGADOS - BRAZIL Ŕ BANKRUPTCY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

WELLS IP LAW - US Ŕ ENTERTAINMENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ TECHNOLOGY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

WILLIAM C. MARTUCCI SHOOK HARDY & BACON - US Ŕ EMPLOYMENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR WILLKIE FARR & GALLAGHER LLP - US Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR WILLMS & SHIER ENVIRONMENTAL LAWYERS LLP - CANADA Ŕ ENVIRONMENTAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR WILMERHALE - US Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ZANG BERGEL & VIÑES ABOGADOS - ARGENTINA Ŕ FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

ASIA PACIFIC ADVANZ FIDELIS SDN BHD - MALAYSIA Ŕ IP & PATENTS ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR

FRAGOMEN - CHINA Ŕ CORPORATE IMMIGRATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

AEQUITAS LAW LLP - SINGAPORE Ŕ COMPLIANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

GAGRATS - INDIA Ŕ AVIATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

ALKA BHARUCHA, BHARUCHA & PARTNERS - INDIA Ŕ LAWYER OF THE YEAR

GAGRATS - INDIA Ŕ CORPORATE TAX LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

ALLEN & GLEDHILL LLP - SINGAPORE Ŕ FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

GAGRATS - INDIA Ŕ TAX LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

ALLEN & GLEDHILL LLP - SINGAPORE Ŕ PATENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

GILBERT + TOBIN - AUSTRALIA Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

AMY CHIN - AMY CHIN - TAIWAN Ŕ CAPITAL MARKETS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

GINA CASS-GOTTLIEB, GILBERT + TOBIN - AUSTRALIA Ŕ COMPETITION LAWYER OF THE YEAR

ANAND AND ANAND - INDIA Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

GRANT THORNTON - NEW ZEALAND Ŕ TAX & AUDIT ADVISORY OF THE YEAR

ANANDA IPLIMITED - THAILAND Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

GREENHILL & CO., INC. - AUSTRALIA Ŕ INDEPENDENT INVESTMENT BANK OF THE YEAR

ATSUMI & SAKAI - JAPAN Ŕ COMMERCIAL BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

HANOL IP& LAW - SOUTH KOREA Ŕ IP & TRADEMARKS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

AZB & PARTNERS - INDIA Ŕ CORPOARTE GOVERNANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

HARMERS WORKPLACE LAWYERS - AUSTRALIA Ŕ */%6453*"- LAW SPECIALIST OF THE YEAR

AZB & PARTNERS - INDIA Ŕ M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

HERBERT GEER - AUSTRALIA Ŕ CONSTRUCTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ CORPORATE TAX LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ SUPERANNUATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

BAKER & MCKENZIE - ASIA Ŕ REIT TEAM OF THE YEAR BAKER & MCKENZIE LLP - SOUTH EAST ASIA LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BAKER & MCKENZIE LLP - THAILAND Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BHARUCHA & PARTNERS - INDIA Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BLUE RICE INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT - SINGAPORE Ŕ ABSOLUTE RETURN FUND MANAGER OF THE YEAR BRADDELL BROTHERS LLP - SINGAPORE Ŕ ARBITRATION AND LITIGATION LAW FIRM ON THE YEAR Ŕ BOUTIQUE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR CASTILLO LAMAN TAN PANTALEON & SAN JOSE - PHILIPPINES Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR CATHY QUINN , MINTER ELLISON RUDD WATTS - NEW ZEALAND Ŕ LAWYER OF THE YEAR CHOYBROWN - AUSTRALIA Ŕ ADVERTISING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR CHUO SOGO LAW OFFICE - JAPAN Ŕ INDEPENDENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR CLAYTON UTZ - AUSTRALIA Ŕ M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR CLIFFORD CHANCE LLP - ASIA PACIFIC Ŕ MOST TRUSTED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR CLIFFORD CHANCE LLP - CHINA Ŕ INTERNATIONAL BANKING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR CLSA ASIA-PACIFIC MARKETS - ASIA PACIFIC Ŕ LEADING BANKING EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR COCHINGYAN & PERALTA LAW OFFICES - PHILIPPINES Ŕ INTERNET AND E-COMMERCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR COLIN BIGGERS & PAISLEY - AUSTRALIA INDEPENDENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH - AUSTRALIA Ŕ DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR CRAIG SHRIVE, RUSSELL MCVEAGH - NEW ZEALAND Ŕ LEADING AVIATION LAWYER OF THE YEAR DEACONS - HONG KONG Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR DEEP & FAR ATTORNEYS AT LAW - TAIWAN Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

HFG - LAW FIRM & IP PRACTICE - CHINA Ŕ LEADING CLIENT CARE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR HLB MANN JUDD- AUSTRALIA Ŕ FULL SERVICE ACCOUNTANCY FIRM OF THE YEAR HOWSE WILLIAMS BOWERS - HONG KONG Ŕ FULL SERVICE DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR HUNT & HUNT LAWYERS - AUSTRALIA Ŕ LITIGATION & DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR HUNTON & WILLIAMS LLP - CHINA Ŕ ENERGY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR IGNATIUS ANDY LAW OFFICES - INDONESIA Ŕ DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR IK HYUN SEO, CHO & PARTNERS - SOUTH KOREA Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR IL&FS TRANSPORTATION NETWORKS LTD - INDIA Ŕ OVERALL COMPANY OF THE YEAR INTELLIGERE - INDIA Ŕ LEGAL PROCESS OUTSOURCING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ISKANDARSYAH & PARTNERS - INDONESIA Ŕ CORPORATE LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR JEFF LEONG, POON & WONG - MALAYSIA Ŕ MID SIZE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR JIMÉNEZ CRUZ PEÑA - DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Ŕ FOREIGN INVESTMENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR JIPYONG JISUNG - KOREA Ŕ SHIPPING & TRANSPORT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR JOHN W.H. DENTON, CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH - AUSTRALIA Ŕ MANAGING PARTNER OF THE YEAR JONES LANG LASALLE (INDIA) - INDIA Ŕ REAL ESTATE ADVISOR OF THE YEAR R K DEWAN & CO - INDIA Ŕ PATENTS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR K LAW - INDIA Ŕ CAPITAL MARKETS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR KANGXIN PARTNERS, P.C. - CHINA Ŕ IP Prosecution Firm of the Year KARANJAWALA & COMPANY - INDIA Ŕ BOUTIQUE LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

EAGLE IP LIMITED - HONG KONG Ŕ IPLAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

KHAITAN & CO - INDIA Ŕ ANTI-TRUST LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ ARBITRATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ BANKING & FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ COMMERCIAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ CONSUMER RIGHTS & PRODUCT LIABILITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ CORPORATE & SECURITIES LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ CORPORATE DUE DILIGENCE PROVIDER OF THE YEAR Ŕ ENVIRONMENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ ESTATES, TRUSTS & PERSONAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ FOREIGN INVESTMENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ FRANCHISE & LICENSING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ INTERNATIONAL TRADE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ MINING & MINERAL EXPLORATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ MONOPOLIES LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

FABIO GIACOPELLO, HFG LAW FIRM & IP PRACTICE - CHINA Ŕ LEADING IP LAWYER OF THE YEAR

KHAITAN SUD & PARTNERS - INDIA Ŕ PROJECT FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

FCB GROUP - AUSTRALIA Ŕ EMPLOYMENT FIRM OF THE YEAR

KING & WOOD MALLESONS - AUSTRALIA Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

FONTAMILLAS, DONASCO & CO., LTD. - CAMBODIA Ŕ AUDITING ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR

KOTAK MAHINDRA CAPITAL COMPANY LIMITED - INDIA Ŕ INVESTMENT BANK OF THE YEAR

DESAI & DIWANJI - INDIA Ŕ CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ HIGH LEVEL M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ INFRASTRUCTURE FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ PROJECT FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ COMPETITION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR DIANNE BANKS, GILBERT + TOBIN - AUSTRALIA Ŕ LEADING LABOUR LAWYER OF THE YEAR DOCONADE - AUSTRALIA Ŕ IMMIGRATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR DOCONADE - AUSTRALIA Ŕ CRIMINAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR DREW & NAPIER LLC - SINGAPORE Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

KPMG LLP - AUSTRALIA Ŕ AUDIT FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ DIVERSITY CONSULTANCY OF THE YEAR Ŕ FINANCIAL ADVISORY OF THE YEAR (M&A) KRESTON DORMERS - AUSTRALIA Ŕ FULL SERVICE ACCOUNTANCY FIRM OF THE YEAR KUSNANDAR & CO - INDONESIA Ŕ FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR LARACY & CO. - HONG KONG Ŕ DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR LCS & PARTNERS - TAIWAN Ŕ ENERGY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ TRUST LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR LORENZ INTERNATIONAL LAWYERS - KYRGYZ REPUBLIC Ŕ MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR LUBIS, GANIE & SUROWIDJOJO - INDONESIA Ŕ ARBITRATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ CAPITAL MARKETS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ COMMERCIAL LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ INSOLVENCY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR M.FAVALE-TARTER, LLC - KAZAKHSTAN Ŕ INDEPENDENT RESTRUCTURING ADVISOR OF THE YEAR MAALOUF ASHFORD & TALBOT - CHINA Ŕ OVERSEAS BANKING & FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ OVERSEAS CROSS BORDER LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ OVERSEAS M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR MARTINEZ VERGARA GONZALEZ & SERRANO - PHILIPPINES Ŕ CORPORATE & COMMERCIAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR MAX NG - SINGAPORE Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR MAYBANK - ASIA Ŕ BANK OF THE YEAR Ŕ MANAGED BANK OF THE YEAR

PRADHAN & ASSOCIATES - NEPAL Ŕ AVIATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR PWC - THAILAND Ŕ FULL SERVICE TAX ADVISORY OF THE YEAR R K DEWAN & CO - INDIA Ŕ TRADEMARK LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR RAJINDER NARAIN & CO. AND RNCLEGAL - INDIA Ŕ AVIATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR RIAALAW - PAKISTAN Ŕ CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ROOSDIONO & PARTNERS (A MEMBER OF ZICOLAW) - INDONESIA Ŕ CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR RUSSELL MCVEAGH - NEW ZEALAND Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR S ESHWAR CONSULTANTS - INDIA Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR SHOOK LIN & BOK - MALAYSIA Ŕ M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR SIAM ADVISORY SERVICES COMPANY LIMITED - THAILAND Ŕ FINANCIAL RESTRUCTURING ADVISOR OF THE YEAR SKRINE - MALAYSIA Ŕ COMMERCIAL ARBITRATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR SLAUGHTER & MAY - HONG KONG Ŕ INTERNATIONAL M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR SLP ENVIRONMENTAL CO., LTD - CAMBODIA Ŕ ENVIRONMENTAL DUE DILIGENCE PROVIDER OF THE YEAR SLP ENVIRONMENTAL CO., LTD - INDONESIA Ŕ ENVIRONMENTAL DUE DILIGENCE PROVIDER OF THE YEAR SLP ENVIRONMENTAL CO., LTD - MALAYSIA Ŕ ENVIRONMENTAL DUE DILIGENCE PROVIDER OF THE YEAR

MBMG GROUP - THAILAND Ŕ ACCOUNTANCY FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ INVESTMENT MANAGER OF THE YEAR Ŕ PRIVATE CLIENT TAX FIRM OF THE YEAR

SLP ENVIRONMENTAL CO., LTD - MYANMAR (BURMA) Ŕ ENVIRONMENTAL DUE DILIGENCE PROVIDER OF THE YEAR

MBMG INTERNATIONAL - THAILAND Ŕ INDEPENDENT FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ MID-TIER FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ NICHE ADVISOR OF THE YEAR Ŕ REAL ESTATE FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ TAX LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

SLP ENVIRONMENTAL CO., LTD - THAILAND Ŕ ENVIRONMENTAL DUE DILIGENCE PROVIDER OF THE YEAR

MCCULLOUGH ROBERTSON LAWYERS - AUSTRALIA Ŕ ENERGY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ MOST TRUSTED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR MESSRS. JULIUS & CREASY - SRI LANKA Ŕ EMPLOYMENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR MINTER ELLISON RUDD WATTS - NEW ZEALAND Ŕ LARGE IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR MS. RITAMBHARA AGRAWAL, INTELLIGERE - INDIA Ŕ LAWYER OF THE YEAR MULLA & MULLA & CRAIGIE BLUNT & CAROE - INDIA Ŕ DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ INSURANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ SHIPPING AND MARITIME LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ TRADEMARK LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR NICHOLAS WESTON LAWYERS & TRADE MARKS ATTORNEYS - AUSTRALIA Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR NOMURA - ASIA Ŕ INVESTMENT BANK OF THE YEAR

SLP ENVIRONMENTAL CO., LTD - SRI LANKA Ŕ ENVIRONMENTAL DUE DILIGENCE PROVIDER OF THE YEAR

SOEWITO SUHARDIMAN EDDYMURTHY KARDONO - INDONESIA Ŕ CORPORATE & COMMERCIAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR STAMFORD LAW CORPORATION - SINGAPORE Ŕ CORPORATE & COMMERCIAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ DEAL OF THE YEAR (ASIA PACIFIC BREWERIES (APB) / HEINEKEN) Ŕ M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ SHIPPING & MARITIME LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR STRATEGIC CAPITAL SERVICES LIMITED - AUSTRALIA Ŕ PLACEMENT AGENCY OF THE YEAR SUDATH PERERA & ASSOCIATES - SRI LANKA Ŕ CORPORATE & COMMERCIAL FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ MOST RESPECTED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR SURANA & SURANA INTERNATIONAL ATTORNEYS - SOUTH INDIA Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR SYCIP SALAZAR HERNANDEZ & GATMAITAN - PHILIPPINES Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR TAE YEON CHO, CHO & PARTNERS - SOUTH KOREA Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR TALWAR THAKORE & ASSOCIATES - INDIA Ŕ CAPITAL MARKETS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR TAN KOK QUAN PARTNERSHIP - SINGAPORE Ŕ LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

NORTON ROSE LLP - AUSTRALIA Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

THOMPSON BLACKIE BIDDLES LIMITED - NEW ZEALAND Ŕ REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ SPA ADVISOR OF THE YEAR

NORTON WHITE - AUSTRALIA Ŕ AVIATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

TIM CLARKE, RUSSELL MCVEAGH - NEW ZEALAND Ŕ LEADING PUBLIC LAW LAWYER OF THE YEAR

NORTON WHITE - AUSTRALIA Ŕ SHIPPING & MARITIME LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

TLA ADVOCATES & LEGAL CONSULTANTS - INDIA Ŕ EMPLOYMENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

NYGT (HONG KONG) LIMITED - HONG KONG Ŕ PRIVATE CLIENT ADVISORY OF THE YEAR

TRESSCOX LAWYERS - AUSTRALIA Ŕ COMMERCIAL BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

NYGT (HONG KONG) LIMITED - HONG KONG Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY FIRM OF THE YEAR

TRILEGAL - INDIA Ŕ TMT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

O.P. KHAITAN & CO - INDIA Ŕ INDEPENDENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

VCI LEGAL - VIETNAM Ŕ BANKING & FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ CAPITAL MARKETS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

OLDHAM, LI & NIE, SOLICITORS - HONG KONG Ŕ COMMERCIAL BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR OLDHAM, LI & NIE, SOLICITORS - HONG KONG Ŕ COMMERCIAL BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR OLIVER WYMAN ASIA - ASIA Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY CONSULTANCY OF THE YEAR - LGBT PACIFIC EQUITY PARTNERS - ASIA PACIFIC Ŕ LARGE EQUITY HOUSE OF THE YEAR Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ CORPORATE GOVERNANCE CONSULTANT OF THE YEAR PHOENIX LEGAL - INDIA\ Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

WANG JING & CO - CHINA Ŕ SHIPPING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR WOO, KWAN, LEE & LO - HONG KONG Ŕ BUSINESS LITIGATION FIRM OF THE YEAR ZAID IBRAHIM & CO - MALAYSIA Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

EUROPE 20 ESSEX STREET - UK Ŕ CLIENT SERVICE AWARD (CHAMBERS) A.T. KEARNEY AB - SWEDEN Ŕ STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT CONSULTANT OF THE YEAR ABELS AVOCATS - SWITZERLAND CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ABRANTES ADVOGADOS/ATTORNEYS AT LAW - PORUGAL Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ABREU INTERNATIONAL LEGAL SOLUTIONS - PORTUGAL Ŕ CORPORATE & INTERNATIONAL TAX FIRM OF THE YEAR ACCESS GROUP - UK Ŕ EQUITY BACKED TECH BUSINESS OF THE YEA ACCLIMATISE (AWARE FOR INVESTMENTS) - UK Ŕ NICHE TECHNOLOGY PROVIDER OF THE YEAR ACROSS LEGAL - SPAIN Ŕ COMPANY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ACUITY ADVISORS LIMITED - UK Ŕ INDEPENDENT CORPORATE FINANCE BOUTIQUE OF THE YEAR ACXIT CAPITAL MANAGEMENT GMBH - GERMANY Ŕ BOUTIQUE MERCHANT BANKING FIRM OF THE YEAR ADDLESHAW GODDARD LLP - UK Ŕ ASSET BASED LENDING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ADVENTION BUSINESS PARTNERS - FRANCE Ŕ SPECIALIST ADVISOR OF THE YEAR ADVOKATFIRMA HAAVIND AS - NORWAY Ŕ OUTSOURCING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ADVOKATFIRMAN VINGE KB - SWEDEN Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR AFSCHRIFT G.E.I.E - BELGIUM Ŕ BUSINESS CRIME LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ PERSONAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ TAX LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR AFSCHRIFT G.E.I.E. - SWITZERLAND Ŕ BUSINESS CRIME LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR AKD ADVOCATEN & NOTARISSEN - NETHERLANDS Ŕ BANKING & FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ ENVIRONMENTAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ALEXIOU - KOSMOPOULOS LAW FIRM - GREECE Ŕ REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR AMC ECONOMICS LLP - UK Ŕ ECONOMICS CONSULTANCY OF THE YEAR AMMC LAW – AVOCATS À LA COUR - LUXEMBOURG Ŕ FUNDS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ LITIGATION FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ TRADE & COMMERCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ANN FENECH - FENECH & FENECH ADVOCATES - MALTA Ŕ LAWYER OF THE YEAR ANTAS DA CUNHA, FERREIRA & ASSOCIADOS - PORTUGAL Ŕ COMMERCIAL DUE DILIGENCE ADVISOR OF THE YEAR

BABBE - GUERNSEY Ŕ COMMERCIAL PROPERTY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BADERTSCHER RECHTSANWÄLTE AG - SWITZERLAND Ŕ COMMERCIAL BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BAIRD CAPITAL - UK Ŕ LOWER / MIDDDLE MARKET EQUITY HOUSE OF THE YEAR BAKER TILLY BELGIUM - BELGIUM Ŕ CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BAKER TILLY BELGIUM - BELGIUM Ŕ M&A FIRM OF THE YEAR BARBER ODENBACH - GERMANY Ŕ BOUTIQUE BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BARDY RAHIKKALA LAW OFFICE - FINLAND Ŕ MARITIME LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BARGATE MURRAY - UK Ŕ BOUTIQUE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ ARBITRATION AND LITIGATION LAW FIRM ON THE YEAR Ŕ AVIATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ COMMERCIAL LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ SHIPPING & MARITIME LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ SMALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BARK & CO SOLICITORS - UK Ŕ WHITE COLLAR CRIME LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BARNETT WADDINGHAM LLP - UK Ŕ ACTUARIAL ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR BEN RAPIOJA, PARTNER - BORENIUS ATTORNEYS AT LAW - FINLAND Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR BERGAMIN & GIELINK PENSIOENRECHTADVIES B.V. - NETHERLANDS Ŕ PENSIONS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BERRYMANS LACE MAWER LLP - UK Ŕ HEALTH & SAFETY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BERWIN LEIGHTON PAISNER LLP - UK Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BETTER CAPITAL LLP - UK Ŕ TURNAROUND INVESTOR OF THE YEAR BINDER GRÖSSWANG. - AUSTRIA Ŕ CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BIRD & BIRD (SPAIN) LLP - SPAIN Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BLACKTRACE B.V - NETHERLANDS Ŕ INDEPENDENT M&A ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR BLAS DE LEZO ABOGADOS - SPAIN Ŕ SHIPPING & MARITIME LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BLS RECHTSANWÄLTE - AUSTRIA Ŕ COMPENSATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BLUEMIND CORPORATE FINANCE STRATEGY - BENELUX Ŕ INDEPENDENT CORPORATE FINANCE FIRM OF THE YEAR BNY MELLON [EUROPE] - UK Ŕ INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT ADVISORY (INSURANCE) OF THE YEAR

ANTAS DA CUNHA, FERREIRA & ASSOCIADOS - PORTUGAL Ŕ CORPORATE SERVICE PROVIDER OF THE YEAR

BNY MELLON FUND SERVICES (IRELAND) LTD. - IRELAND Ŕ ACCOUNTING & ADMINISTRATION ADVISORY OF THE YEAR Ŕ CUSTODY TRANSFER AGENCY OF THE YEAR

ARC RELOCATION - HUNGARY Ŕ RELOCATION EXPERT FIRM OF THE YEAR

BÖHRET LINDSTEDT SEHMSDORF & PARTNER - GERMANY Ŕ FINANCIAL ADVISORY OF THE YEAR

ARTHUR D. LITTLE AB - SWEDEN Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY ADVISOR OF THE YEAR

BOJORGE & ASSOCIATES INTERNATIONAL CORPORATE AND IMMIGRATION LAWYERS - SPAIN Ŕ IMMIGRATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

ASTAPOVLAWYERS INTERNATIONAL LAW GROUP - UKRAINE Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ASTERS - UKRAINE Ŕ CLIENT CARE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ MOST TRUSTED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ATRIUM PARTNERS A/S - DENMARK Ŕ CORPORATE FINANCE HOUSE OF THE YEAR Ŕ INDEPENDENT FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ M&A ADVISORY OF THE YEAR Ŕ NATIONAL FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ BANKING & FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ATTORNEYS AT LAW KLOTINI & SERGIS- LATVIA Ŕ EUROPEAN CROSS BORDER LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR AURA HEALTHCARE LIMITED- UK Ŕ NICHE TECHNOLOGY PROVIDER OF THE YEAR (HEALTHCARE)

BONACCORD ECOSSE LIMITED - UK Ŕ LIFE SCIENCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BONN STEICHEN & PARTNERS - LUXEMBOURG Ŕ CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ TAX ADVISORY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BOUSIE ADVOCATEN - NETHERLANDS Ŕ MEDIA & ENTERTAINMENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BOYANOV & CO. - BULGARIA Ŕ M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BRANDL & TALOS - AUSTRIA Ŕ CAPITAL MARKETS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BRICK COURT CHAMBERS - UK Ŕ COMMERCIAL LITIGATION CHAMBERS OF THE YEAR Ŕ COMPETITION/EU CHAMBERS OF THE YEAR

B|L|S ATTORNEYS AT LAW - AUSTRIA Ŕ ARBITRATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ COMMERCIAL LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ EMPLOYMENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ INSURANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

BROOKS MACDONALD ASSET MANAGEMENT - UK Ŕ PRIVATE CLIENT INVESTMENT MANAGER OF THE YEAR

BABBE - CHANNEL ISLANDS Ŕ DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

BRUCHER THIELTGEN & PARTNERS - LUXEMBOURG Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

BROWN SHIPLEY PRIVATE BANKING - UK Ŕ PRIVATE BANK OF THE YEAR

BRYAN, MANSELL & TILLEY LLP - EUROPE Ŕ TURNAROUND & RESTRUCTURING ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR

CREDIT SUISSE - IRELAND Ŕ LEADING FUNDS ADVISORY

BÜHLMANN KOENIG & HENSELER - SWITZERLAND Ŕ CONTRACTS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

CRODA INTERNATIONAL PLC - UK LISTED BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

BURGESS SALMON - UK Ŕ LEGAL DUE DILIGENCE ADVISOR OF THE YEAR

CROSS BORDER, S.R.L. - ITALY Ŕ INDEPENDENT M&A ADVISORY OF THE YEAR

BURGIS & BULLOCK CORPORATE FINANCE LIMITED - UK Ŕ REGIONAL CORPORATE FINANCE ADVISOR OF THE YEAR

CROSS EQUITY PARTNERS AG - SWITZERLAND Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY HOUSE OF THE YEAR (MID MARKET)

BUSE HEBERER FROMM - GERMANY Ŕ CORPORATE & COMMERCIAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

CROWN OFFICE CHAMBERS - UK Ŕ HEALTH & SAFETY CHAMBERS OF THE YEAR

CABINET M. OPROIU - ROMANIA Ŕ PATENT AND TRADEMARK LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

DANDRIA STUDIO LEGALE - ITALY Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

CAIADO GUERREIRO & ASSOCIADOS, SOCIEDADE DE ADVOGADOS, R.L. PORTUGAL Ŕ AVIATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ TAX LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

DANEVYCH LAW FIRM - UKRAINE Ŕ INDEPENDENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

CALLEGARI & MARTINI AVVOCATI - ITALY Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR CAMDEN ASSOCIATES - UK Ŕ NICHE CORPORATE FINANCE ADVISORY OF THE YEAR (MINING)

DAVID AYLEN, GOWLING INTERNATIONAL INC - RUSSIA Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR DC ADVISORY - EUROPE Ŕ M&A MID-MARKET ADVISORY OF THE YEAR DE BRAUW BLACKSTONE WESTBROEK - NETHERLANDS Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

CAMILLERI PREZIOSI - MALTA Ŕ CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

DE GAULLE FLEURANCE & ASSOCIÉS - FRANCE Ŕ FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ TAX LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ CRIMINAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

CAPITA FIDUCIARY GROUP - LUXEMBOURG Ŕ FUND ADMINISTOR OF THE YEAR

DE GAULLE FLEURANCE & ASSOCIÉS - FRANCE Ŕ CAPITAL INVESTMENT ADVISORY OF THE YEAR

CAPITA FIDUCIARY GROUP - UK Ŕ FUND ADMINISTOR OF THE YEAR

DE METZ ADVOCATEN N.V. - NETHERLANDS Ŕ BANKING & SECURITIES LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

CARLOS PINTO DE ABREU E ASSOCIADOS - VÂNIA COSTA RAMOS - PORTUGAL Ŕ CRIMINAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

DEARSON WINYARD INTERNATIONAL LIMITED - UK Ŕ IMMIGRATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

CARLTON STRATEGY ADVISORS LIMITED - UK Ŕ COMMERCIAL DEAL ADVISOR OF THE YEAR Ŕ COMMERCIAL DUE DILIGENCE ADVISOR OF THE YEAR Ŕ MARKET DUE DILIGENCE ADVISOR OF THE YEAR

DEBENEDETTI MAJEWSKI SZCZESNIAK - POLAND Ŕ INDEPENDENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

CASS BUSINESS SCHOOL - UK Ŕ BUSINESS SCHOOL OF THE YEAR CASS BUSINESS SCHOOL - UK Ŕ EXECUTIVE EDUCATION PARTNER OF THE YEAR CASTRÉN & SNELLMAN - FINLAND Ŕ GENDER DIVERSITY PROGRAM OF THE YEAR CENTRIC COMMERCIAL FINANCE - UK Ŕ INVOICE DISCOUNTER OF THE YEAR CERMAK A SPOL. - CZECH REPUBLIC Ŕ PATENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR CERMAK A SPOL. - CZECH REPUBLIC Ŕ TMT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR CESKA SPORITELNA - CZECH REPUBLIC Ŕ CUSTOMER SERVICE BANK OF THE YEAR CESKOSLOVENSKA OBCHODNI BANKA, A. S. - EASTERN EUROPE Ŕ BANK OF THE YEAR CHRISTIAN ROHNKE, WHITE & CASE - GERMANY Ŕ IP LAWYER OF THE YEAR CHRISTOS PATSALIDES L.L.C. - CYPRUS Ŕ INTERNATIONAL TAX PLANNING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR CMS CAMERON MCKENNA LLP - EUROPE Ŕ CONSUMER PRODUCTS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR CMS HASCHE SIGLE - GERMANY Ŕ CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ MID MARKET LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

DEBLOCKLAW - BELGIUM Ŕ CONTRACT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR DEEPSTORE - UK Ŕ RECORDS MANAGEMENT COMPANY OF THE YEAR DELOITTE - IRELAND Ŕ LEADING FUNDS ADVISORY (ACCOUNTING / AUDITING) DELOITTE LLP - UK Ŕ M&A ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR DEVEREUX CHAMBERS - UK Ŕ INSURANCE CHAMBERS OF THE YEAR DFMG SOLICITORS - IRELAND Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR DGE ATTORNEYS AT LAW - SWITZERLAND Ŕ CORPORATE IMMIGRATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR DILLON EUSTACE - IRELAND Ŕ ASSET MANAGEMENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ FINANCIAL MARKETS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ INVESTMENT FUNDS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR DLA PIPER - ITALY Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR DORALT SEIST CSOKLICH RECHTSANWALTS-PARTNERSCHAFT - AUSTRIA Ŕ COMMERCIAL PROPERTY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR DR. HELEN PAPACONSTANTINOU, JOHN FILIAS AND ASSOCIATES - GREECE Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR DSM DI STEFANO MOYSE AVOCATS A LA COUR - LUXEMBOURG Ŕ COMMERCIAL BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

COLLER IP MANAGEMENT - UK Ŕ IP ADVISORY OF THE YEAR

EDAS LAW BUREAU - RUSSIA Ŕ ANTITRUST LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

COLLIERS INTERNATIONAL - UK Ŕ NICHE PROPERTY ADVISOR OF THE YEAR (HEALTHCARE)

EDMONDS, MARSHALL, MCMAHON - UK Ŕ NICHE PRIVATE PROSECUTION FIRM OF THE YEAR

COMGEST ASSET MANAGEMENT INTERNATIONAL LIMITED - IRELAND Ŕ FUNDS ADVISORY OF THE YEAR (PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT)

ELIAS PARASKEVAS ATTORNEYS - GREECE Ŕ LABOUR & EMPLOYMENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

CONCORDIA ATTORNEYS AT LAW - ESTONIA Ŕ INDEPENDENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR CONFIDENTUS UAB - LITHUANIA Ŕ CORPORATE FINANCE BOUTIQUE OF THE YEAR CONFIDENTUS UAB - LITHUANIA Ŕ M&A ADVISOR OF THE YEAR CONVEX CAPITAL - UK Ŕ LEAD CORPORATE FINANCE ADVISOR OF THE YEAR COTTONS CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS - UK Ŕ REGIONAL INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANCY FIRM OF THE YEAR CPV PARTNERS - SWITZERLAND Ŕ SMALL COMMERCIAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR CRAIG FUND CONSULTANCY - OFFSHORE Ŕ FUND CONSULTANCY FIRM OF THE YEAR

ELKINGTON AND FIFE LLP - UK Ŕ IP & TRADEMARK LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR EMC CORPORATE FINANCE - UK Ŕ INDEPENDENT CORPORATE FINANCE ADVISORY OF THE YEAR (SME) ENVIRONMENTAL LAW CHAMBERS LTD - UK Ŕ ENVIRONMENTAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR EOC PARTNERS LLP - SWEDEN Ŕ CORPORATE FINANCE BOUTIQUE OF THE YEAR ERNST & YOUNG - IRELAND Ŕ LEADING FUNDS ADVISORY (ACCOUNTING / AUDITING) EUBELIUS - BELGIUM Ŕ MOST TRUSTED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR EUROLEX BULGARIA/AD&P - BULGARIA Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

EUROPE FDS LAW - RUSSIA Ŕ INDEPENDENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR (RUSSIAN LAW)

HAMALA KLUCH VÍGLASKÝ S.R.O. - SLOVAKIA WINNER Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

FDU GROUP - UK Ŕ EXECUTIVE SEARCH ADVISORY OF THE YEAR

HAMBACH & HAMBACH RECHTSANWÄLTE - GERMANY Ŕ GAMING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

FENECH & FENECH ADVOCATES - MALTA Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

HAMPTON COURT CAPITAL - UK Ŕ TMT CORPORATE FINANCE ADVISORY OF THE YEAR

FENECH & FENECH ADVOCATES - MALTA Ŕ M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

HANDELSBANKEN - SWEDEN Ŕ BANK OF THE YEAR Ŕ CUSTOMER SERVICE BANK OF THE YEAR

FINANCE MANAGEMENT GROUP - GEORGIA Ŕ LEADING INDEPENDENT FULL SERVICE BUSINESS ADVISORY OF THE YEAR FIRST CAPITAL - UK Ŕ BOUTIQUE INVESTMENT BANK OF THE YEAR FIRST NAMES MANAGEMENT LIMITED - ISLE OF MAN Ŕ TRUST ADVISORY COMPANY OF THE YEAR FLORIAN AIGNER, AFR RECHTSANWÄLTE - GERMANY Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY LAWYER OF THE YEAR FOUR PARTNERS S.R.L. & FOUR PARTNERS ADVISORY SIM S.P.A. - ITALY Ŕ INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT FIRM OF THE YEAR FØYEN ADVOKATFIRMA DA - NORWAY Ŕ INDEPENDENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR FRIEDRICH GRAF VON WESTPHALEN - GERMANY Ŕ INSURANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

HANDELSBANKEN CAPITAL MARKETS - NORDIC Ŕ INVESTMENT BANK OF THE YEAR HARRISON GODDARD FOOTE LLP - SCOTLAND Ŕ FULL SERVICE IP & TRADEMARKS ADVISORY OF THE YEAR HAUSFELD & CO LLP - UK Ŕ BANKING & FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR HAZLEWOODS LLP - UK Ŕ NICHE ADVISORY OF THE YEAR (HEALTHCARE) HEDMAN PARTNERS - ESTONIA Ŕ INDEPENDENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR HERFURTH & PARTNER - GERMANY Ŕ INTERNATIONAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

FRIEDRICH GRAF VON WESTPHALEN & PARTNER - GERMANY Ŕ PRODUCT LIABILITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

HERMANN - GERMANY Ŕ ISOLVENCY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

FRUYTIER LAWYERS IN BUSINESS - NETHERLANDS Ŕ EMPLOYMENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

HIGHWIRE CONSULTING - UK Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY LEADERSHIP ADVISOR OF THE YEAR

FRUYTIER LAWYERS IN BUSINESS - NETHERLANDS Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

HITACHI CAPITAL INVOICE FINANCE - UK Ŕ BLOCK DISCOUNTER OF THE YEAR Ŕ FACTORING LENDER OF THE YEAR Ŕ RETAIL FINANCE PROVIDER OF THE YEAR

GARANTI BANK ROMANIA - ROMANIA Ŕ COMMERCIAL BANK OF THE YEAR GÁRDOS, FÜREDI, MOSONYI, TOMORI LAW OFFICE - HUNGARY Ŕ INDEPENDENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

HMT LLP - UK Ŕ CF ADVISORY OF THE YEAR

GE CAPITAL - EUROPE Ŕ LEVERAGED FINANCE PROVIDER OF THE YEAR (MID MARKET)

HOUTHOFF BURUMA - NETHERLANDS Ŕ CLIENT FOCUS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ INSOLVENCY & RESTRUCTURING ADVISOR OF THE YEAR

GENNARO D’ANDRIA, DANDRIA STUDIO LEGALE - ITALY Ŕ LEADING COMPETITION LAWYER OF THE YEAR

HPLAW - GREECE Ŕ PATENTS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

GEORGE Z. GEORGIOU & ASSOCIATES LLC - CYPRUS Ŕ DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

HUSEN ADVOKATER I/S - DENMARK Ŕ CORPORATE & COMMERCIAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

GEORGIEV, TODOROV & CO. - BULGARIA Ŕ ADMINISTRATIVE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

IAIN K CLARK, YOUNG & PARTNERS LLP - UK Ŕ LEADING ARBITRATION LAWYER OF THE YEAR Ŕ LEADING ARBITRATION LAWYER OF THE YEAR WINNER

GIAMBRONE LAW ILP - ITALY Ŕ LITIGATION & DISPUTES LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR GIDE LOYRETTE NOUEL, LLP - FRANCE Ŕ CAPITAL MARKETS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR GILLIERON AVOCAT (TROLLER HITZ TROLLER) - SWITZERLAND Ŕ TMT ADVISORY OF THE YEAR GLOBAL BACKOFFICE (GLOBAL PRIME PARTNERS). - EUROPE Ŕ INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGY PLATFORM OF THE YEAR

ID EST AVOCATS LLC - SWITZERLAND Ŕ BOUTIQUE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

IMAP M&A TREUHAND GMBH - AUSTRIA Ŕ M&A ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR INTEGRITES - UKRAINE Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

GO INDUSTRY DOVE BID - UK Ŕ ASSET APPRAISER OF THE YEAR

INTERNATIONAL FUND SERVICES (IRELAND) LTD (A STATE STREET COMPANY)- IRELAND Ŕ LEADING FUNDS ADVISORY

GOWLING INTERNATIONAL INC - RUSSIA Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

INTERQUALITY LTD - CYPRUS Ŕ TAX ADVISORY OF THE YEAR

GRAF & PITKOWITZ RECHTSANWÄLTE GMBH - AUSTRIA Ŕ EASTERN EUROPEAN M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

INTRALINKS - UK Ŕ VDR PROVIDER OF THE YEAR

GRAF & PITKOWITZ RECHTSANWÄLTE GMBH - AUSTRIA Ŕ LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

INVENTIO ATTORNEYS LTD - FINALND Ŕ CORPORATE ADVISORY OF THE YEAR (TMT)

GRAHAM ASSOCIATES (INTERNATIONAL) LTD - UK Ŕ TAX ADVISORY OF THE YEAR GRANT THORNTON - IRELAND Ŕ MANAGING PARTNER OF THE YEAR, PAUL MCCANN Ŕ TAX ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR

INVESTEC GROWTH & ACQUISITION FINANCE - UK Ŕ MID MARKET MEZZANINE PROVIDER OF THE YEAR ISLOG LAW FIRM - ICELAND Ŕ INSOLVENCY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ISOLAS - GIBRALTAR Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

GRANT THORNTON LIMITED - CHANNEL ISLANDS Ŕ LEADING ADVISORY (ACCOUNTANCY & AUDIT)

ISOLAS COMMERCIAL - GIBRALTAR Ŕ LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

GRANT THORNTON UK LLP - UK Ŕ CORPORATE FINANCE ADVISOR OF THE YEAR Ŕ FORENSIC & INVESTIGATION ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR

JANSSEN BROEKHUYSEN ADVOCATEN - NETHERLANDS Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

GRANT THORNTON UK LLP - UK Ŕ NATIONAL FIRM OF THE YEAR GREEN SQUARE - UK Ŕ NICHE CORPORATE FINANCE BOUTIQUE OF THE YEAR GRUENDEL RECHTSANWÄLTE - GERMANY Ŕ MOST RESPECTED SMALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ VENTURE CAPITAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR GUNNERCOOKE LLP - UK Ŕ BOUTIQUE CORPORATE LAW FIRM GÜRLICH & CO. ADVOKÁTNÍ KANCELÁŘ - CZECH REPUBLIC Ŕ CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR GÜRLICH & CO. ADVOKÁTNÍ KANCELÁŘ - CZECH REPUBLIC Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

JASMIN CAPITAL - FRANCE Ŕ PRIVATE PLACEMENT AGENT OF THE YEAR JOHNSTON CARMICHAEL - UK Ŕ OVERALL ACCOUNTANCY FIRM OF THE YEAR (SCOTLAND) JONES DAY - EUROPE Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR JUS NORDICUM OYJUS NORDICUM OY - FINLAND Ŕ INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR K&L GATES LLP - FRANCE Ŕ M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR KALLIOLAW ASIANAJOTOIMISTO OY - ATTORNEYS AT LAW - FINLAND Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR KALLIOLAW ASIANAJOTOIMISTO OY - ATTORNEYS AT LAW - FINLAND Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2012

KALO & ASSOCIATES - ALBANIA Ŕ CROSS BORDER CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

LITORINA CAPITAL ADVISORS AB - SWEDEN Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY HOUSE OF THE YEAR (MID MARKET)

KALO & ASSOCIATES - ALBANIA LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

LODDERS SOLICITORS - UK Ŕ AGRICULTURE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

KAUTTU & CO ATTORNEYS LTD - FINLAND Ŕ BOUTIQUE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

LUCENTUM LIMITED - UK Ŕ BUSINESS OF THE YEAR (TURNOVER OF £0-25M) Ŕ REGIONAL ACCOUNTANCY FIRM OF THE YEAR

KERMAN & CO LLP - UK Ŕ AIM ADVISORY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ ENERGY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ SPORT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR KERRES | PARTNERS - AUSTRIA Ŕ PRIVATE CLIENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR KIDDY & PARTNERS LLP - UK Ŕ MANAGEMENT TEAM DUE DILIGENCE PROVIDER OF THE YEAR KINETIC PARTNERS - IRELAND Ŕ LEADING FUNDS ADVISORY (ACCOUNTING / AUDITING) KLC LAW FIRM - GREECE Ŕ BANKING & FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR KLC LAW FIRM - GREECE Ŕ CORPORATE / RESTRUCTURING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR KLC LAW FIRM - GREECE Ŕ PRIVATIZATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR KNP LAW - HUNGARY Ŕ LIFE SCIENCES AND PHARMACEUTICALS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ LITIGATION AND ARBITRATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

M&A INTERNATIONAL GMBH - GERMANY Ŕ CORPORATE FINANCE BOUTIQUE MAIO LEGAL - SPAIN Ŕ INDEPENDENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR MANNBENHAM ADVOCATES LIMITED (ISLE OF MAN) - ISLE OF MAN Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR MANNHEIMER SWARTLING - SWEDEN Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR MAPLES AND CALDER - IRELAND Ŕ AVIATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ BANKING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ COMMERCIAL LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ ISLAMIC LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ LEADING FUNDS ADVISORY (LEGAL) MARK DAVIES & ASSOCIATES LTD - UK Ŕ ESTATE PLANNING FIRM OF THE YEAR MARTIN KAYE LLP - UK Ŕ REGIONAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

KONEČNÁ & ZACHA - CENTRAL EUROPE Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

MATHESON - IRELAND Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

KOZLOWSKI & PARTNERZY - POLAND Ŕ CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

MAVEN CAPITAL PARTNERS UK LLP - UK Ŕ SMALL BUYOUT HOUSE OF THE YEAR

KPMG - DENMARK Ŕ FINANCIAL DUE DILIGENCE ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR

MCCLURE NAISMITH LLP - UK Ŕ BANKING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ REGIONAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR (SCOTLAND)

KPMG - IRELAND Ŕ FUNDS ADVISORY OF THE YEAR (AUDIT) KPMG - LUXEMBOURG Ŕ CORPORATE TAX ACCOUNTANCY FIRM OF THE YEAR KROMANN REUMERT - DENMARK Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR L.K. SHIELDS, SOLICITORS - IRELAND Ŕ LEADING FUNDS ADVISORY (LEGAL) LANGHAM HALL - UK LLP - UK Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY FUND ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR LANGHAM HALL UK LLP - UK Ŕ REAL ESTATE FUND ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR LATHAM & WATKINS - ITALY Ŕ MOST TRUSTED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR LATORRE MORGESE CESARO RIO - ITALY Ŕ INTERNATIONAL CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR LAVRYNOVYCH & PARTNERS - UKRAINE Ŕ PROJECT FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR LDC - UK Ŕ MID MARKET PRIVATE EQUITY HOUSE OF THE YEAR

MCDERMOTT WILL & EMERY AARPI - FRANCE Ŕ EMPLOYMENT & LABOUR - MOST RESPECTED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR MCEVOY PARTNERS - IRELAND Ŕ CORPORATE & COMMERCIAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR MERGER VISION - CZECH REPUBLIC Ŕ SMALL CORPORATE FINANCE ADVISOR OF THE YEAR METIS PARTNERS LTD - UK Ŕ SPECIALIST IP ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR MEWBURN ELLIS LLP - EUROPE Ŕ IP FIRM OF THE YEAR MEWBURN ELLIS LLP - UK Ŕ IP FIRM OF THE YEAR (LITIGATION) MEYER-KÖRING - GERMANY Ŕ FRANCHISE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR MIAC ACADAMETRICS LTD - UK Ŕ NICHE CONSULTANCY PRACTICE OF THE YEAR MIKA J. LEHTIMÄKI, ATTORNEYS-AT-LAW TRUST - FINLAND Ŕ BANKING & FINANCE LAWYER OF THE YEAR

LEITNERLEITNER GMBH EASTERN - EUROPE Ŕ TAX ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR

MIKAEL AHLSTRÖM, FOUNDING PARTNER, PROCURITAS PARTNERS AB SWEDEN Ŕ INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP AWARD

LEOGRIFF - NORWAY Ŕ PATENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

MIQUEL ROCA, BLAS DE LEZO ABOGADOS - SPAIN Ŕ NICHE LAWYER OF THE YEAR

LEONHARDT RECHTSANWÄLTE - GERMANY Ŕ INSOLVENCY & RESTRUCTURING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

MNKS (FORMERLY NOBLE & SCHEIDECKER) - LUXEMBOURG Ŕ DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

LEUMI ABL LIMITED - UK Ŕ ASSET BASED LENDER OF THE YEAR

MOALEM WEITEMEYER BENDTSEN ADVOKATPARTNERSELSKAB - DENMARK Ŕ CAPITAL MARKETS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

LEWIS & CO AARPI - EUROPE Ŕ NICHE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR (SHIP ARREST) Ŕ SHIPPING & MARITIME FIRM OF THE YEAR

MOALEM WEITEMEYER BENDTSEN ADVOKATPARTNERSELSKAB - DENMARK Ŕ INTERNATIONAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

LEXENCE N.V. ADVOCATEN & NOTARISSEN - NETHERLANDS Ŕ CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR LEXENCE N.V. ADVOCATEN & NOTARISSEN - NETHERLANDS Ŕ M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR LEXFIELD - LUXEMBOURG Ŕ INVESTMENT FUNDS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR LIDINGS - RUSSIA Ŕ CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ COMPANY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR LIGERION GROUP - RUSSIA Ŕ MEDIATION ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR LINDSKOG MALMSTRÖM ADVOKATBYRÅ KB - SWEDEN Ŕ INDEPENDENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR LITMUS ADVISORY LIMITED - UK Ŕ DEBT ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2012

MONFRINI CRETTOL & ASSOCIES - SWITZERLAND Ŕ FRAUD LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR MOTIEKA & AUDZEVICIUS - LITHUANIA Ŕ BANKING & FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ INDEPENDENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ COMMERCIAL ARBITRATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR MOUTEIRA GUERREIRO, ROSA AMARAL & ASSOCIADOS | SOCIEDADE DE ADVOGADOS R.L. - PORTUGAL Ŕ ENVIRONMENTAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR MUMMERT & COMPANY - GERMANY Ŕ INDEPENDENT FIRM OF THE YEAR MURDOCHS SOLICITORS - UK Ŕ PROFESSIONAL DISCIPLINE & REGULATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR NABARRO LLP - EUROPE Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR (FUND FORMATION) NEOVIAN PARTNERS - FRANCE Ŕ STRATEGIC ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR

EUROPE WINNER

NESTOR NESTOR DICULESCU KINGSTON PETERSEN SCA - ROMANIA Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

PHOENIX FUND SERVICES - IRELAND Ŕ LEADING FUNDS ADVISORY

NEWTON EUROPE LTD - UK Ŕ OPERATIONS CONSULTANT OF THE YEAR

PMSI - UK Ŕ STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT CONSULTANT OF THE YEAR

NNDKP - ROMANIA Ŕ ENERGY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

PNC BUSINESS CREDIT - UK Ŕ REFINANCE & RESTRUCTURING LENDER OF THE YEAR

NO 5 CHAMBERS - UK Ŕ CHAMBERS OF THE YEAR

POLLYANNA CAPITAL PARTNERS - RUSSIA Ŕ CROSS BORDER M&A ADVISOR OF THE YEAR

NO 5 CHAMBERS / REGULATORY LEGAL / PANNONE LLP / FRENKEL TOPPING UK Ŕ NEW LEGAL INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR (RISK WARNING)

POLLYANNA CAPITAL PARTNERS - RUSSIA Ŕ M&A ADVISOR OF THE YEAR

NOAH ADVISORS LTD. - EUROPE Ŕ CORPORATE FINANCE ADVISOR OF THE YEAR (TECHNOLOGY) NOERR LLP - EUROPE Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

POTAMITISVEKRIS - GREECE Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR PPR & PARTNER - GERMANY Ŕ SMALL COMMERCIAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

NOERR LLP - GERMANY Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

PRAGMA CONSULTING LIMITED - UK Ŕ SPECIALIST DUE DILIGENCE ADVISOR OF THE YEAR Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY ADVISOR OF THE YEAR

NOERR OOO - RUSSIA Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

PRELUDE CONSULTING LIMITED - UK Ŕ NICHE CONSULTANCY OF THE YEAR

NOMOS - SOCIÉTÉ D’AVOCATS - FRANCE Ŕ MEDIA COPYRIGHT’S LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS - IRELAND Ŕ LEADING FUNDS ADVISORY (ACCOUNTING / AUDITING)

NORDIC LAW ASIANAJOTOIMISTO - ADVOKATBYRÅ - ATTORNEYS-AT-LAW OY AB - FINLAND Ŕ M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

PRK PARTNERS - CZECH REPUBLIC Ŕ MOST TRUSTED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ MOST TRUSTED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ MOST TRUSTED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

NORTHERN TRUST - IRELAND Ŕ LEADING FUNDS ADVISORY NORTON ROSE LLP - GERMANY Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR NORTON ROSE LLP - UK Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR NOVAGRAAF TECHNOLOGIES & NOVAGRAAF FRANCE - FRANCE Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ODVETNIKI JURIJ DOLŽAN, MITJA VIDMAR & IGOR ZEMLJARIČ - SLOVENIA Ŕ BANKING & FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR| Ŕ CAPITAL MARKETS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ CORPORATE & COMMERCIAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ EUROPEAN CROSS BORDER LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ INDEPENDENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ EUROPEAN CROSS BORDER LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR OLGA SOROKINA, O2 CONSULTING - RUSSIA Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR OLGA YAUDZEMIS, O2 CONSULTING - RUSSIA Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR ONE BRICK COURT - UK Ŕ DEFAMATION/PRIVACY CHAMBERS OF THE YEAR ORBIS PARTNERS LLP - UK Ŕ TURNAROUND & RESTRUCTURING ADVISORY OF THE YEAR OSBORNE CLARKE - ITALY Ŕ BANKING & FINANCE LAW FRIM OF THE YEAR OSPREY CAPITAL - UK Ŕ SEED INVESTOR FIRM OF THE YEAR

PROCURITAS PARTNERS AB - SCANDINAVIA Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY HOUSE OF THE YEAR PROMAN OY - FINLAND Ŕ CORPORATE FINANCE ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR PRW RECHTSANWÄLTE - GERMANY Ŕ BOUTIQUE IT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR PUSCH WAHLIG LEGAL - GERMANY Ŕ EMPLOYMENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR QUENTIN BARGATE, BARGATE MURRAY SOLICITORS - UK Ŕ INSURANCE LAWYER OF THE YEAR QUINN EMANUEL URQUHART & SULLIVAN, LLP - GERMANY Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR QUINN EMANUEL URQUHART & SULLIVAN, LLP - GERMANY Ŕ PATENTS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR RAIFFEISEN CENTROBANK AG - CENTRAL EASTERN EUROPE Ŕ LEAD M&A ADVISORY OF THE YEAR

WINNER RAPOSO BERNARDO & ASSOCIADOS, SOCIEDADE DE ADVOGADOS, RL PORTUGAL Ŕ FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR RAUTNER HUBER - AUSTRIA Ŕ BANKING AND FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR RAUTNER HUBER ATTORNEYS-AT-LAW - AUSTRIA Ŕ BANKING & FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR RAWLINSON & HUNTER - UK Ŕ LEADING ADVISORY (ACCOUNTACY)

OST ENERGY LTD - UK Ŕ TECHNICAL ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR

RBS INVOICE FINANCE - UK Ŕ INVOICE FINANCE BANK OF THE YEAR Ŕ LARGE ASSET BASED LENDER OF THE YEAR

OUTER TEMPLE CHAMBERS - UK Ŕ PROFESSIONAL DISCIPLINE CHAMBERS OF THE YEAR

RCF IP CONSULTING AND SERVICES - PORTUGAL Ŕ TRADEMARK LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

OXFORD CONSULTING ASSOCIATES LLP - UK Ŕ NICHE CONSULTANCY OF THE YEAR (HEALTHCARE)

RENTSCH PARTNER LTD - SWITZERLAND Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

PAKHARENKO & PARTNERS - UKRAINE Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

RONDELLI ADVISORS SRL - ITALY Ŕ M&A ADVISOR OF THE YEAR

PAMBORIDIS LLC - CYPRUS Ŕ CROSS-BORDER LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

ROTHSCHILD - GERMANY Ŕ CROSS BORDER M&A ADVISOR OF THE YEAR

PANMURE GORDON & CO. - UK Ŕ CORPORATE BROKER OF THE YEAR

ROUSUD COSTAS DURAN SLP- SPAIN Ŕ BUSINESS CRIME DEFENCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

PARKER BULLEN LLP - UK Ŕ REGIONAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

RUIZ-HUERTA & CRESPO SPORTS LAWYERS - SPAIN Ŕ SPORTS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

PATRIKIOS PAVLOU & ASSOCIATES LLC - CYPRUS Ŕ BANKING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ CAPITAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ CROSS-BORDER LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

RUSSELL ADVOCATEN - NETHERLANDS Ŕ FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

PAVIA E ANSALDO - ITALY Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM ON THE YEAR

SALAMANDER SUISSE - SWITZERLAND Ŕ TRUST & COMPANY SERVICES ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR

PCF SOLUTIONS LIMITED - UK Ŕ MANAGEMENT ADVISORY OF THE YEAR

SALUTARIS LEGAL - UK Ŕ PRODUCT LIABILITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

PELARGOS CAPITAL - NETHERLANDS Ŕ INVESTMENT BOUTIQUE OF THE YEAR

SAXINGER, CHALUPSKY & PARTNER RECHTSANWÄLTE GMBH - AUSTRIA Ŕ ANTI-CORRUPTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ MOST RESPECTED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR (TECHNOLOGY) Ŕ MOST TRUSTED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

PENEV LLP - BULGARIA Ŕ TELECOMS AND MEDIA LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR PENNINGTONS SOLICITORS LLP - UK Ŕ LEGAL ADVISOR OF THE YEAR (TECHNOLOGY) PENTECH VENTURES LLP - UK Ŕ TMT VC OF THE YEAR

14 PHARMACY PARTNERS - UK Ŕ NICHE DEBT PROVIDER OF THE YEAR (HEALTHCARE)

RUSSIAN DIRECT INVESTMENT FUND - RUSSIA Ŕ INVESTMENT FUND OF THE YEAR

SCHNITZER LAW - AUSTRIA Ŕ PUBLIC PROCUREMENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2012

SEI INVESTMENTS GLOBAL FUND SERVICES LTD - IRELAND Ŕ LEADING FUNDS ADVISORY

TRAVERS SMITH LLP - UK Ŕ FRANCHISE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

SETTERWALLS ADVOKATBYRÅ - SWEDEN Ŕ LIFE SCIENCES LAWYER OF THE YEAR

TURNER PARKINSON LLP - UK Ŕ REGIONAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

SGH MARTINEAU LLP - UK Ŕ LEGAL ADVISOR OF THE YEAR (DEBT & EQUITY) Ŕ REGIONAL FAMILY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

UGGC AVOCATS - FRANCE Ŕ INDEPENDENT FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR UNIVERSIDADE CATÓLICA PORTUGUESA - PORTUGAL Ŕ BUSINESS LAW SCHOOL OF THE YEAR

SGH MARTINEAU LLP - UK Ŕ REGIONAL PRIVATE CLIENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

UNIVERSITY OF KENT - UK Ŕ ECONOMIC LAW SCHOOL OF THE YEAR

SIA GROUP - UK Ŕ ASSET DISPOSAL FIRM OF THE YEAR

UNIVERSITY OF SURREY - UK Ŕ COMMERCIAL LAW SCHOOL OF THE YEAR

SIA GROUP - UK Ŕ CORPORATE INSOLVENCY ADVISOR OF THE YEAR Ŕ PLANT & PROPERTY VALUATION PROVIDER OF THE YEAR

URS INFRASTRUCTURE & ENVIRONMENT UK LIMITED - UK Ŕ ENVIRONMENTAL DUE DILIGENCE ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR

SIGNET PARTNERS LLP - UK Ŕ NICHE LAW OF THE YEAR (EMPLOYMENT)

VALENTE ASSOCIATI GEB PARTNERS - ITALY Ŕ INTERNATIONAL TAX LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ TRANSFER PRICING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

SILICON VALLEY BANK - UK Ŕ NICHE BANK OF THE YEAR (TECH INVESTMENT) SIMON-KUCHER & PARTNERS STRATEGY AND MARKETING CONSULTANTS EUROPE Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY CONSULTANCY OF THE YEAR - DISABILITIES Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY CONSULTANCY OF THE YEAR - DIVERSITY FOR WOMEN Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY CONSULTANCY OF THE YEAR - LGBT Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY CONSULTANCY OF THE YEAR - MINORITIES

VÁLKY PARTNERS S.R.O. - SLOVAKIA Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR VALTEQ - GERMANY Ŕ REAL ESTATE ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR VAN OERS CORPORATE FINANCE - NETHERLANDS Ŕ MID MARKET CORPORATE FINANCE ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR

SIMONSEN ADVOKATFIRMA DA - NORWAY Ŕ AVIATION FIRM OF THE YEAR

VAZ SERRA & ASSOCIADOS - PORTUGAL Ŕ INDEPENDENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

SINCERIUS TRANSACTION SERVICES - NETHERLANDS Ŕ PURCHASER DUE DILIGENCE ADVISOR OF THE YEAR

VISION HUNTERS OY LTD - FINLAND Ŕ M&A ADVISORY OF THE YEAR

SINCERIUS TRANSACTION SERVICES - NETHERLANDS Ŕ FINANCIAL DUE DILIGENCE ADVISOR OF THE YEAR

VOGEL & VOGEL - FRANCE Ŕ COMPETITION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

SIRIUS LEGAL - BELGIUM Ŕ INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

VÖLKL. RECHTSANWÄLTE - AUSTRIA Ŕ NICHE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

SLAUGHTER & MAY - UK Ŕ DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

WALKERS IRELAND/WALKERS CORPORATE SERVICES (IRELAND) LTD - IRELAND Ŕ LEADING FUNDS ADVISORY (LEGAL)

SMITH COOPER - UK Ŕ REGIONAL ACCOUNTANCY FIRM OF THE YEAR

WBW WEREMCZUK BOBEL & PARTNER - POLAND Ŕ COMMERCIAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

SORAINEN - BALTIC Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

WEINHOLD LEGAL - CZECH REPUBLIC Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM ON THE YEAR

SORAINEN - BALTIC Ŕ TRANSFER PRICING FIRM OF THE YEAR

WESLEYAN ASSURANCE SOCIETY - UK Ŕ INSURANCE COMPANY OF THE YEAR

SOUTH SQUARE - UK Ŕ INSOLVENCY/CORPORATE RESTRUCTURING (CHAMBERS)

WESTERN UNION BUSINESS SOLUTIONS - UK Ŕ FOREIGN EXCHANGE PROVIDER OF THE YEAR

SRS ADVOGADOS - PORTUGAL Ŕ DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

WHITE & BLACK LEGAL LLP - ENGLAND Ŕ VENTURE CAPITAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

STEINVENDER AS - NORWAY Ŕ CF BOUTIQUE OF THE YEAR

WILLHEIM MÜLLER RECHTSANWÄLTE - AUSTRIA Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

STELIOS AMERICANOS & CO LLC, ADVOCATES - LEGAL CONSULTANTS CYPRUS Ŕ FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

WILLIAM FRY - IRELAND Ŕ EMPLOYMENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ ENERGY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ INSOLVENCY AND RESTRUCTURING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ LEADING FUNDS ADVISORY (LEGAL) Ŕ IRELAND - PENSIONS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ INSURANCE & REINSURANCE - MOST RESPECTED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

STUDIO LEGALE SUTTI - ITALY Ŕ INTERNATIONAL COMMERCIAL LITIGATION ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ CORPORATE & COMMERCIAL LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR SUTER HOWALD RECHTSANWÄLTE - ATTORNEYS AT LAW Ŕ BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

SWITZERLAND

SVALNER TAX & TRANSACTION - SWEDEN Ŕ INTERNATIONAL TAX ADVISORY OF THE YEAR SWEENEY MCGANN - IRELAND Ŕ SPORTS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR T. GARANTI BANKASI A.Ş. - TURKEY Ŕ COMMERCIAL BANK OF THE YEAR Ŕ PROJECT & ACQUISITION FINANCE BANK OF THE YEAR

WILSON PARTNERS LTD - UK Ŕ REGIONAL TAX ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR WINSTON & STRAWN LLP - UK Ŕ MOST TRUSTED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR WISTRAND ADVOKATBYRÅ - SWEDEN Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR WOLLEN MICHELMORE LLP - UK Ŕ REGIONAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

TASSOS PAPADOPOULOS & ASSOCIATES - CYPRUS Ŕ ISLAMIC LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

WRAGGE & CO LLP - UK Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

TENZOR CONSULTING GROUP - RUSSIA Ŕ FOREIGN INVESTMENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

WSP ENVIRONMENTAL - SWEDEN Ŕ NICHE ADVISORY OF THE YEAR (ENVIRONMENTAL)

THE COLLEGE OF LAW - UK Ŕ LAW SCHOOL OF THE YEAR

XXIV OLD BUILDINGS - UK Ŕ CHANCERY CHAMBERS OF THE YEAR

THE IRISH FUNDS INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION - IRELAND Ŕ INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP AWARD - PAT LARDNER, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE IRISH FUNDS INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION (IFIA) Ŕ INVESTMENT FUND OF THE YEAR - THE QUALIFYING INVESTOR FUND (QIF)

ZHANNA TOMASHEVSKAYA, O2 CONSULTING - RUSSIA Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR

THEO V. SIOUFAS & CO. LAW OFFICES - GREECE Ŕ INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR THIRTY NINE ESSEX STREET - UK Ŕ PERSONAL INJURY / CLINICAL NEGLIGENCE CHAMBERS OF THE YEAR THOMAS, MAYER & ASSOCIÉS - FRANCE Ŕ INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR TOUCH FINANCIAL - UK Ŕ INVOICE FINANCE BROKER OF THE YEAR TP SERVICES GMBH - SWITZERLAND Ŕ TRANSFER PRICING ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR

ZILVAROVÁ CTIBOR HLADKÝ - CZECH REPUBLIC Ŕ FRANCHISE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ZILVAROVÁ CTIBOR HLADKÝ V.O.S. - CZECH REPUBLIC Ŕ CROSS BORDER LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ZIVKO MIJATOVIC AND PARTNERS - SERBIA Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ZWANZIG HACKE MEILKE & PARTNER - GERMANY Ŕ MEDIATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA 36ONE ASSET MANAGEMENT - SOUTH AFRICA Ŕ ASSET MANAGER OF THE YEAR

ABDULLA FAROUK LUQMAN - YEMEN Ŕ CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

GALADARI - UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Ŕ ARBITRATION AND LITIGATION LAW FIRM ON THE YEAR Ŕ COMMERCIAL DUE DILIGENCE ADVISOR OF THE YEAR Ŕ COMMERCIAL LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ CORPORATE & COMMERCIAL LAW FIRM ON THE YEAR Ŕ CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAW FIRM ON THE YEAR Ŕ INSOLVENCY & RESTRUCTURING LAW FIRM ON THE YEAR Ŕ MARITIME & SHIPPING LAW FIRM ON THE YEAR

ABDULLATIF ALISSA GROUP HOLDING COMPANY - SAUDI ARABIA Ŕ HOLDING GROUP OF THE YEAR

GEN & TEMIZER | ÖZER - TURKEY Ŕ M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

ABOU JAOUDE & ASSOCIATES LAW FIRM - LEBANON Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ CORPORATE FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

GLYN MARAIS INC. - SOUTH AFRICA Ŕ CORPORATE & COMMERCIAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

ADAMS & ADAMS - SOUTH AFRICA Ŕ ANTI-TRUST LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ LIFE SCIENCES LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ PATENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

HESKIA - HACMUN LAW FIRM - ISRAEL Ŕ BANKING & FINANCE LA W FIRM OF THE YEAR

AKUĞUR LAW FIRM - TURKEY Ŕ REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

ISLAMIC DEVELOPMENT BANK GROUP - MENA Ŕ FINANCIAL INSTITUTION OF THE YEAR

AMIT, POLLAK, MATALON & CO. - ISRAEL Ŕ COMPETITION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ ENVIRONMENTAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

JACKIE MIDLANE, NORTON ROSE SOUTH AFRICA - SOUTH AFRICA LEADING BANKING LAWYER OF THE YEAR

BERNADT VUKIC POTASH & GETZ - SOUTH AFRICA Ŕ BOUTIQUE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

KBH KAANUUN - UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Ŕ BOUTIQUE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

A.M. JOHRI ASSOCIATES LTD. - MAURITIUS Ŕ FINANCIAL ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR AB & DAVID - AFRICA Ŕ COMMERCIAL BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

BIN SHABIB & ASSOCIATES (BSA) LLP - UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Ŕ CONSTRUCTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

HERDEM & CO. - TURKEY Ŕ BANKING & FINANCE LA W FIRM OF THE YEAR

IMPALA LEGAL ADVOCATES & CONSULTANTS - UGANDA Ŕ COMMERCIAL BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

JOHN W FFOOKS & CO. - MADAGASCAR Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

KETTANI LAW FIRM - MOROCCO Ŕ BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

BRIAN WIMPEY, NORTON ROSE - SOUTH AFRICA Ŕ LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR

KHOUKHI AT QWEDAR - ALGIERS Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

BURGAN BANK GROUP - MENA Ŕ BANK OF THE YEAR

KHOUKHI AT QWEDAR - ALGIERS Ŕ PRIVATE CLIENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

CASPI & CO - ISRAEL Ŕ BANKING & FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

KNOWLES HUSIN LINDSAY INC - SOUTH AFRICA Ŕ DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

CENTUM - EAST AFRICA Ŕ INVESTMENT BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

KOLCUOGLU DEMIRKAN ATTORNEYS AT LAW - TURKEY Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

CITADEL CAPITAL - AFRICA Ŕ BUY AND BUILD PRIVATE EQUITY HOUSE OF THE YEAR

KOSHERI, RASHED & RIAD LAW FIRM - EGYPT Ŕ ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

CITADEL CAPITAL - AFRICA Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY FIRM OF THE YEAR

KPMG TURKEY - TURKEY Ŕ FULL SERVICE ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR

CITADEL CAPITAL - EGYPTIAN REFINING COMPANY (ERC) - EGYPT Ŕ FUNDRAISING OF THE YEAR

LUQMAN LEGAL - YEMEN Ŕ CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

CLIFFORD CHANCE LLP - MENA Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR CLIMATE SHIPPING & TRADING LTD - GHANA Ŕ COMPANY OF THE YEAR

MAALOUF ASHFORD & TALBOT - SAUDI ARABIA Ŕ OVERSEAS CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ OVERSEAS M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ OVERSEAS PRIVATE EQUITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

ÇUKUR&YILMAZ LAW FIRM - TURKEY Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

MAWERE & SIBANDA LEGAL PRACTIONERS - ZIMBABWE Ŕ FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

DARDIK, GROSS & CO - ISRAEL Ŕ COMMERCIAL BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

MGRA & ASSOCIADOS, LDA - MOZAMBIQUE Ŕ FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

DESTEK PATENT INC. - TURKEY Ŕ IP ADVISORY OF THE YEAR

NORTON ROSE LLP - AFRICA Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ BANKING - MOST RESPECTED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

DEVRES LAW OFFICE - TURKEY Ŕ CONSTRUCTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR EDWARD NATHAN SONNENBERGS - SOUTH AFRICA Ŕ ASSET BASED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ BEST PRIVATE BANKING SYSTEMS PROVIDER Ŕ GLOBAL FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ MARITIME LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ TAX LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

PEKIN & BAYAR - TURKEY Ŕ CAPITAL MARKETS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR PREMIER FINANCIAL SERVICES LIMITED - MAURITIUS Ŕ COMPANY & TRUST FORMATION ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR QUALMS CONSULT GROUP - GHANA Ŕ HEALTH & SAFETY ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR RAND MERCHANT BANK - AFRICA Ŕ INVESTMENT BANK OF THE YEAR

ERNST & YOUNG - SOUTH AFRICA Ŕ FOREIGN INVESTMENT ADVISORY OF THE YEAR

RAND MERCHANT BANK - SOUTH AFRICA Ŕ DEBT HOUSE OF THE YEAR

ERNST & YOUNG - KUWAIT (AL-AIBAN, AL-OSAIMI & PARTNERS) - KUWAIT Ŕ CORPORATE TAX ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR

RAND MERCHANT BANK - SOUTH AFRICA Ŕ INVESTMENT BANK OF THE YEAR

ERNST & YOUNG ETHIOPIA - ETHIOPIA Ŕ CORPORATE FINANCE ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR

RAND MERCHANT BANK - SOUTH AFRICA Ŕ M&A ADVISORY OF THE YEAR

ERRIAH CHAMBERS - MAURITIUS Ŕ CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

RSM ASHVIR - KENYA Ŕ TAX ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR

EXXARO - SOUTH AFRICA Ŕ COMPANY OF THE YEAR

SAHRA PETROLEUM CONSULTING - YEMEN Ŕ NICHE ADVISORY OF THE YEAR (OIL & GAS)

FRAIKECH ASSOCIÉS - MOROCCO Ŕ INDEPENDENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

SIAO PARTNERS - NIGERIA Ŕ TAX ADVISORY OF THE YEAR

G. ELIAS & CO. - NIGERIA Ŕ BANKING & FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

SIMMONS & SIMMONS - MENA Ŕ INTERNATIONAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

G. ELIAS & CO. - NIGERIA Ŕ CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

SOCIÉTÉ CIVILE PROFESSIONNELLE D’AVOCATS MAME ADAMA GUÉYE ET ASSOCIÉS - SENEGAL Ŕ BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

G.O.SODIPO & CO. - NIGERIA Ŕ CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

SOVEREIGN CORPORATE SERVICES JLT - UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Ŕ TRUST ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ COMPANY FORMATION AGENT FIRM OF THE YEAR THE INTERNATIONAL ISLAMIC TRADE FINANCE CORPORATION (ITFC) MENA Ŕ TRADE FINANCE PROVIDER OF THE YEAR ÜNLÜ & CO - TURKEY Ŕ INVESTMENT BANK OF THE YEAR VINSON & ELKINS - UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Ŕ CROSS BORDER LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR YEHUDA RAVEH & CO. - ISRAEL Ŕ OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ PROJECT FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR YÜKSELKARKINKÜÇÜK ATTORNEY PARTNERSHIP - TURKEY Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ZEENAT AL MANSOORI & ASSOCIATES - BAHRAIN Ŕ CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ZEMAH SCHNEIDER & PARTNERS - ISRAEL Ŕ LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ZEMEDENEH NEGATU - E&Y - ERNST & YOUNG ETHIOPIA - ETHIOPIA Ŕ MANAGING PARTNER OF THE YEAR ZL LAW FIRM - JORDAN Ŕ LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR ZU’BI & PARTNERS - THE KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN Ŕ EMPLOYMENT & LABOR LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2012

INTERNATIONAL AO HALL - GUERNSEY Ŕ LEADING ADVISORY (FINANCIAL CONSULTANCY)

KB ASSOCIATES - OFFSHORE Ŕ SPECIALIST FUNDS CONSULTANCY OF THE YEAR

AON - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ DIVERSITY LEADER OF THE YEAR (RISK MANAGEMENT & INSURANCE / REINSURANCE)

KINROSS GOLD CORPORATION - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ MINING COMPANY OF THE YEAR

BENNETT JONES - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ DIVERSITY INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR (LAW FIRM DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION NETWORK (LFDIN)

LEGIS FUND SERVICES - OFFSHORE Ŕ FUND AMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR (CHANNEL ISLANDS) LINCOLN INTERNATIONAL LLC - NTERNATIONAL Ŕ MID-MARKET INVESTMENT BANK OF THE YEAR

BORDEN LADNER GERVAIS - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ DIVERSITY INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR (LAW FIRM DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION NETWORK (LFDIN)

MCCARTHY TETRAULT - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ DIVERSITY INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR (LAW FIRM DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION NETWORK (LFDIN)

CANACCORD GENUITY - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ FULL SERVICE INVESTMENT BANK OF THE YEAR

MCMILLAN, BLAKES - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ DIVERSITY INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR (LAW FIRM DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION NETWORK (LFDIN)

CAPITA FIDUCIARY GROUP - JERSEY Ŕ FUND ADMINISTOR OF THE YEAR CASS CONSULTING - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ RESEARCH-LED CONSULTANCY OF THE YEAR CENKOS CHANNEL ISLANDS - GUERNSEY Ŕ LEADING ADVISORY (ASSET MANAGEMENT) CMS CAMERON MCKENNA - INTERNATIONAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR (TELECOMS)

MIDAXO - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ NEW TECHNOLOGY OFFERRING OF THE YEAR MILBANK, TWEED, HADLEY & MCCLOY LLP - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ PROJECTS/ENERGY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR MONDI - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ COMPANY OF THE YEAR

CONFIANCE LIMITED - GUERNSEY Ŕ NICHE ADVISORY OF THE YEAR (FILM)

NORTON ROSE - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ DIVERSITY INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR (LAW FIRM DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION NETWORK (LFDIN)

CREDIT SUISSE TRUST LIMITED - GUERNSEY Ŕ LEADING ADVISORY (FIDUCIARY)

OGIER - OFFSHORE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

DAVIES - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ DIVERSITY INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR (LAW FIRM DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION NETWORK (LFDIN)

OGIER FIDUCIARY SERVICES (GUERNSEY) LIMITED - GUERNSEY Ŕ LEADING ADVISORY (FIDUCIARY)

DENTONS - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ DIVERSITY INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR (LAW FIRM DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION NETWORK (LFDIN) DUFF & PHELPS - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ CORPORATE RESTRUCTURING ADVISORY OF THE YEAR Ŕ DIVERSITY FIRM OF THE YEAR (INVESTMENT BANKING) DVK - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ BOUTIQUE PRIVATE EQUITY HOUSE OF THE YEAR TRADE FINANCE PROVIDER OF THE YEAR (SME) ETHOSDATA - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ VIRTUAL BOARD ROOM OF THE YEAR FASKEN MARTINEAU - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ DIVERSITY INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR (LAW FIRM DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION NETWORK (LFDIN) FIRCOSOFT LTD - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ NICHE TECHNOLOGY PROVIDER OF THE YEAR (FINANCIAL MARKETS – COMPLIANCE)

OGILVY PUBLIC RELATIONS - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ PUBLIC RELATIONS FIRM OF THE YEAR OLIVER WYMAN - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ MANAGEMENT CONSULTING FIRM OF THE YEAR OPUS PRIVATE LIMITED - GUERNSEY Ŕ LEADING ADVISORY (FIDUCIARY) OSLER - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ DIVERSITY INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR (LAW FIRM DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION NETWORK (LFDIN) PINEL ADVOCATES - JERSEY Ŕ CORPORATE / COMMERCIAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR PLURALSIGHT - NTERNATIONAL Ŕ NICHE SUPPORT SERVICES PROVIDER OF THE YEAR (TECHNOLOGY) PRICE BAILEY LIMITED - GUERNSEY Ŕ LEADING ADVISORY (ACCOUNTACY & AUDIT) PROVIDENT FIDUCIARY GROUP - GUERNSEY Ŕ LEADING ADVISORY (FIDUCIARY)

GLOBELEQ - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ ENERGY BUSINESS OF THE YEAR (EMERGING MARKETS)

RAWLINSON & HUNTER - GUERNSEY Ŕ LEADING ADVISORY (ACCOUNTACY)

GOODMANS - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ DIVERSITY INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR (LAW FIRM DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION NETWORK (LFDIN)

RISK RESOLUTION GROUP ( ) - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ FULL SERVICE BUSINESS ADVISORY OF THE YEAR (EMERGING MARKETS)

GOWLINGS - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ DIVERSITY INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR (LAW FIRM DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION NETWORK (LFDIN) GUERNSEY FINANCE - GUERNSEY Ŕ INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP AWARD - FIONA LE POIDEVIN, CHIEF EXECUTIVE, GUERNSEY FINANCE GUERNSEY FINANCE - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ FINANCE CENTRE OF THE YEAR HEENAN BLAIKIE - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ DIVERSITY INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR (LAW FIRM DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION NETWORK (LFDIN) HOSKIN & HARCOURT LLP - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ DIVERSITY INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR (LAW FIRM DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION NETWORK (LFDIN) HURLINGHAM TRUST - GUERNSEY Ŕ LEADING ADVISORY (FIDUCIARY) IMS CONSULTING GROUP - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ NICHE STRATEGIC ADVISOR OF THE YEAR (LIFE SCIENCES) INTEL CAPITAL - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ TECHNOLOGY VENTURE INVESTOR OF THE YEAR INTERDEAN RELOCATION SERVICES - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ RELOCATION SERVICE PROVIDER OF THE YEAR INTERNATIONAL PRIVATE BANKING SYSTEMS - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ WEALTH MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE PROVIDER OF THE YEAR INVEST IN AFRICA - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ PROMOTION CAMPAIGN OF THE YEAR IPES (GUERNSEY) LIMITED - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ PRIVATE EQUITY FUND ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR JORDANS TRUST COMPANY - OFFSHORE Ŕ TRUST FORMATION FIRM OF THE YEAR

ROBERT BARR, CO FOUNDER LINCOLN INTERNATIONAL LLC - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP OF THE YEAR SAFFERY CHAMPNESS CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS - GUERNSEY Ŕ LEADING ADVISORY (ACCOUNTACY & AUDIT) SLAUGHTER & MAY - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR STERLING X-AG - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ VDR PROVIDER OF THE YEAR STIKEMAN ELLIOTT - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ DIVERSITY INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR (LAW FIRM DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION NETWORK (LFDIN) TORYS - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ DIVERSITY INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR (LAW FIRM DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION NETWORK (LFDIN) TRANSCOM - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ OUTSOURCING SPECIALIST OF THE YEAR (FINANCIAL SERVICES) VIBERTS JERSEY LAWYERS - JERSEY Ŕ BANKING & FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Ŕ CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR WEIRFOULDS - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ DIVERSITY INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR (LAW FIRM DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION NETWORK (LFDIN) WELCOME REAL-TIME - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ NICHE SOLUTIONS PROVIDER OF THE YEAR (RETAIL BANKING) WILLIS MANAGEMENT (GUERNSEY) LIMITED - GUERNSEY Ŕ LEADING ADVISORY (INSURANCE) WILLMS & SHIER ENVIRONMENTAL LAWYERS LLP - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ ABORIGINAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR WTP ADVISORS - INTERNATIONAL Ŕ CORPORATE TAX ADVISORY OF THE YEAR

UK - NICHE CORPORATE FINANCE ADVISORY OF THE YEAR (MINING) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; CAMDEN ASSOCIATES

CAMDEN ASSOCIATES

ACQ 2013 Award as UK-

NICHE CORPORATE FINANCE ADVISORY OF THE YEAR (MINING)

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WINNER

CANADA - FUND MANAGEMENT FIRM OF THE YEAR, AGILITH CAPITAL LLC

Agilith Capital is a Toronto-based investment manager

Horan. Patrick Horan began in the investment business in

founded in 2007 and manages the award winning North

1989, spending the past 15 years managing both mutual

American Diversified Fund. The Fund was launched

fund and pension fund investments with a core focus on

in October 2007 and is comprised of a balanced mix

TMT, financial and industrial sectors. Prior to helping found

of small, mid and large capitalization North American

Agilith, Andrea Horan was director of research at Genuity

equities outside of the resource sector. Since inception,

Capital Markets and had achieved top institutional rankings

the Fund’s NAV has risen at a compound annual rate of

as a media and communications analyst.

more than 16%, over one of the most volatile periods of market history. The Fund’s exceptional performance has

At its core, the Fund takes on high conviction positions,

been recognized through a number industry awards. In

favouring stock picking over indexing with the belief that

December 2009, Agilith was recognized with the Bronze

excess returns are a direct product of superior business

Medal for Best Hedgefund Newcomer and in October

models. The fund is designed to make quick and decisive

2010 the Fund was a winner of a Canadian Hedge Fund

investments allowing for the timely capture of market

Award in the category of Best One Year Return for new

opportunities, inefficiencies and extremes in investor

funds. The Fund has also achieved a five star ranking

sentiment. The fee structure is unique in that investors

with GlobeFund. In 2013 Agilith was very pleased to be

are offered a per annum hurdle rate of 6% before any

recognized by ACQ with the award of Canadian Fund

performance fees are accrued.

Manager of the Year.

AGILITH CAPITAL INC. 80 Richmond St. W, Suite 203 Toronto ON M5H 2A4 Toll Free (866) 345-123 T (416) 637-4635

In addition to managing the Agilith North American

F (800) 595-6568

The fund benefits from the combined 40 years of industry

Diversified Fund, Agilith Capital manages segregated accounts

E ahoran@agilith.com

experience of its managers, Patrick Horan and Andrea

that can accommodate domestic and offshore investors.

www.agilith.com

USA

WINNER

- INDEPENDENT INSURANCE MANAGEMENT FIRM OF THE YEAR – ATLAS INSURANCE MANAGEMENT

Atlas Insurance Management - USA Atlas Insurance Management is a leading independent insurance manager, providing captive insurance company consulting, formation and management services in Anguilla, Bahamas, Cayman Islands, Delaware, Montana, Nevis, Utah and Washington D.C. Atlas offers clients genuinely innovative solutions to a broad range of financial and risk management challenges. Through a careful analysis of the objectives to be achieved and the risks to be addressed and by bringing to bear our experience and expertise, Atlas will help in the selection of the best strategy whether it be a pure, agency, association, special purpose, sponsored, 831(b), segregated cell, or Risk Retention Group captive. From offices in the Cayman Islands and Charlotte, NC Atlas provides a responsive, professional and personal service with unique access to cell companies in Cayman, the Bahamas, Anguilla and Nevis and to

a Delaware Series LLC. Our geographical spread and access to these companies allows us to offer a wide choice and considerable planning flexibility for clients and their advisers.

Atlas Insurance Management 7401 Carmel Executive Park, Ste 305 Charlotte, NC 28226 T 704 945 6620

Our client base covers all aspects of the self-insurance market, including physicians, hospitals, and medical groups, PEO’s, trucking companies, taxi operators, international exporters, real estate, insurance agencies and storage owners. Atlas is experienced in all aspects of the creation, ongoing management and use of captive insurance companies.

E meveleigh@atlascaptives.com www.atlascaptives.com

Atlas has worked with all forms of captives including single parent, group, rent-a-captive, RRGs, and cell captives. We have structured and managed captive programs for both casualty and property coverages, including medical stop loss, warranty, workers compensation, general liability and medical malpractice.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

CAYMAN ISLANDS - INDEPENDENT INSURANCE MANAGEMENT FIRM OF THE YEAR - ATLAS INSURANCE MANAGEMENT (CAYMAN) LIMITED

Atlas Insurance Management – Cayman Islands Atlas Insurance Management is a leading independent insurance manager, providing captive insurance company consulting, formation and management services in Anguilla, Bahamas, Cayman Islands, Delaware, Montana, Nevis, Utah and Washington D.C. Atlas offers clients genuinely innovative solutions to a broad range of financial and risk management challenges. Through a careful analysis of the objectives to be achieved and the risks to be addressed and by bringing to bear our experience and expertise, Atlas will help in the selection of the best strategy whether it be a pure, agency, association, special purpose, sponsored, 831(b), segregated cell, or Risk Retention Group captive.

a Delaware Series LLC. Our geographical spread and access to these companies allows us to offer a wide choice and considerable planning flexibility for clients and their advisers. Our client base covers all aspects of the self-insurance market, including physicians, hospitals, and medical groups, PEO’s, trucking companies, taxi operators, international exporters, real estate, insurance agencies and storage owners. Atlas is experienced in all aspects of the creation, ongoing management and use of captive insurance companies.

From offices in the Cayman Islands and Charlotte, NC Atlas provides a responsive, professional and personal service with unique access to cell companies

in Cayman, the Bahamas, Anguilla and Nevis and to

medical malpractice.

BRAZIL

Atlas Insurance Management Whitehall House, 3rd Floor, 238 North Church Street, PO Box 699, George Town, Cayman Islands, KY1-1107 T 345 945 5556 E nleighton@atlascaptives.com www.atlascaptives.com

WINNER

- ARBITRATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - BASILIO ADVOGADOS

Bachelor of Law from Universidade Cândido Mendes,

Committee, during the same period, besides being elected

worked in large offices of Brazil, among them, Sergio

as Chief Counselor of the Brazilian Bar Association during

Bermudes’ firm, where she worked during eleven years.

the three-year periods from 2000 to 2003 and 2003 to

She was also a partner of Trench, Rossi e Watanabe

2006. Additionally, she was appointed as member of the

Firm (Baker & McKenzie), being responsible, in Brazil,

Committee to Fight Piracy and Unfair Competition of the

for the civil and commercial litigation area, from July,

Federal Committee of the Brazilian Bar Association during

2002 to December, 2005. She is a post graduate in

period of July 2005 to December 2006, and of the Special

North American Law from Wisconsin University, and is a

Committee to Fight Piracy and Unfair Competition of the

specialist in civil and commercial litigation as well as in

Federal Committee of the Brazilian Lawyers Association,

arbitration. She taught Civil Law in the Post Graduation

which she is still a member of. She is also a member of

Course of the Escola Superior de Advocacia (Lawyer’s

the Editorial Committee of the Arbitration and Mediation

Superior School), from 1993 to 2001, and she’s the author

Magazine, and member of the Corporate law Committee

of several books about corporate law.

from the Escola da Magistratura (Judge’s School) of the

From 2004 to 2006, she was the President of the

High Court of the State of Rio de Janeiro.

Mediation and Arbitration Chamber of the Brazilian Bar

She is a professor in Fundação Getúlio Vargas, in the

Association, in which she also acted as President of the

Arbitration post graduation course. In December 2010,

Lawyer’s Association Committee, from October 2003

she was elected a member of the TRE – Tribunal Regional

to December 2006, Vice-President of the Arbitration

Eleitoral (Electoral Court).

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

Ana Tereza Basilio T +55 (21) 2277 4200 F +55 (21) 2210 6316 E abasilio@basilioadvogados.com.br www.basilioadvogados.com.br

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

BRAZIL - RESTRUCTURING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, COSTA, WAISBERG E TAVARES PAES SOCIEDADE DE ADVOGADOS

COSTA, WAISBERG E TAVARES PAES SOCIEDADE DE ADVOGADOS was created to meet the growing demand for customized legal services deriving from the present dynamic and internationalized structure of the market and based on a global view of business operations, always with a deep legal knowledge and the capacity to offer the best and most efficient legal solutions to its clients.

handling of administrative and judicial proceedings, but also seeks to assist its clients in finding the best legal solution for tax planning, aiming to minimize their tax liability , and providing advice on strategic and business matters, covering operations such as: financial, banking, corporate, antitrust, debt restructuring, public concessions and contractual matters from the business world.”

MARTINS, CHAMON E FRANCO ADVOGADOS E CONSULTORES, originates from the gathering of professionals with experience in the areas of tax consultancy, tax litigation and tax planning, with the main objective of playing an advisory role in the solution and management of the day-to-day problems that occur in corporations, thus allowing for the streamlining of their businesses and operations.

“Irrespective of size, our prospective clients are, in general, corporate entities, domestic or foreign, active in diversified segments of market, as well as individuals.”

As a direct result of their commitment to rendering highquality, customized legal services, the firms have excelled amongst their competitors due to both the agility and dedication shown to clients by their professionals and the direct involvement of partners in all client matters, now a trademark of the firms within a context in which detailed knowledge of the client´s routine and operations becomes fundamental to the rendering of quality legal services. “The firm is not only engaged in the solution of inquiries, rendering of legal opinions, and the sponsoring and

COSTA, WAISBERG E TAVARES PAES SOCIEDADE DE ADVOGADOS Av. Paulista, 1079 - 12º andar 01311-200 São Paulo SP Brasil T +55 11 3372-1164 F +55 11 3372-1179 www.mcfcw.com.br

MCFCW renders services to Brazilian and multinational companies from the most diverse segments, such as: petrochemical, pharmaceutical, agro-business, electrical and electronic, IT, real estate, publishing, banking, telecommunications and services, logistics, investment funds, private equity and venture capital.” Bankruptcy & Restructuring services include; Advice and support on out-of-court corporate restructurings, including negotiations and drafting of relevant documents. Advice on corporate reorganizations in and out of court, including the preparation of reorganization plans covered by Law 11.101/2005 (Brazilian Bankruptcy Law). Advice and support on negotiations of acquisitions of assets of companies in reorganization proceedings.

VALUE-ADDED EXPERTISE PROVIDING PEACE OF MIND DISTINCTION IN COMPLEX MATTERS

Creel, García-Cuéllar, Aiza y Enríquez provides clients a team of attorneys with extensive specialized knowledge to anticipate and resolve issues and efficiently achieve clients’ legal and business goals.

In September 2012, and for the third time in 8 years, Chambers and Partners Latin America recognized our Firm as “Mexico Law Firm of the Year 2012”.

We have over 75 years of experience in providing international and domestic clients technical excellence, knowledge of the market and unparalleled client service. Experts in their field, our attorneys provide innovative solutions and value added for clients. The Firm is a strategic service provider to clients with the most complex and demanding transactions and projects, affording them certainty and peace of mind.

Chambers and Partners wrote that the Firm “has established itself as one of the most famous and high-achieving in Mexico. The group is acclaimed as one of the country's key deal makers in high-profile M&A and capital markets transactions. Complementing the firm's financial and corporate strengths are significant supportive practices in tax, competition and associated regulatory matters, making the firm a 'one-stop shop' for clients…”

We are a full service firm in Mexico with a broad array of practice areas, but we have no generalists; each of our attorneys is highly specialized in one of the following fields: Antitrust and Competition, Banking and Finance, Bankruptcy and Restructuring, Capital Markets, Corporate and Commercial, Dispute Resolution, Employment and Labor, Energy and Infrastructure, Environmental, Insurance and Reinsurance, Intellectual Property, Mergers and Acquisitions, Mining, Private Equity, Project Development and Finance, Real Estate, Tax and Transportation. Pro Bono: we are deeply committed providers of pro bono legal services.

The 2012 Edition of LatinLawyer 250 describes the Firm as: “Creel is a market leader in more ways than one. The firm blends transactional excellence with a deep bench across its practice areas. This firm counts some of Mexico’s top dealmakers in its ranks, who have demonstrated their flair in the market’s most complex M&A, banking and finance and capital markets deals. Is highly ranked in insurance, real estate, antitrust and environment.”

Paseo de los Tamarindos 60, Piso 4, Col. Bosques de las Lomas 05120, México, D.F. Tel. +52 55 4748 0600

Offices:

www.creel.mx ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

Batallón de San Patricio No. 111 Office 1802. ING Tower. Col. Valle Oriente 66269, San Pedro Garza García, Nuevo León Tel. +01 81 8363 4221

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

BRAZIL - FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, Dantas, Lee, Brock & Camargo Advogados - LITIGATION - MOST RESPECTED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, Dantas, Lee, Brock & Camargo Advogados - LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - Dantas, Lee, Brock & Camargo Advogados

DANTAS, LEE, BROCK & CAMARGO ADVOGADOS is a multidisciplinary law firm active in areas such as Consumer & Retail, Life Sciences & Healthcare, Infrastructure, Real Estate, Banking & Finance, Oil & Gas, Insurance, Heavy Industry, Production & Manufacturing, Technology & E-commerce and Sports Law. DLBCA was founded in 1993 and is one of the 10 largest firms in Brazil with 400 professionals and 1,800 correspondents lawyers all over Brazil. In 2013 celebrates 10 years of high level of legal services and achievements. The firm is known for its innovation, technology, skilled management and high performance. DLBCA is a “joint venture” of professionals with skills developed in law firms and companies enhanced by association of former justices of Court of Law and professors of Law School. A law firm focused on providing full and effective legal support and, together with clients, reaching results pursuit under the best “cost X benefit” relationship, in a full compliance with ethical principles. DLBCA has developed a holistic concept in order to fully understand its client´s whole business environment.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

Based on what clients really need from a law firm, as a business partner and besides and effective legal support – DLBCA has developed the “4Data “ system to build permanent and web online interaction with clients through customized work flow to provide accurate, transparent and reliable information, always with risk evaluation, resulting in solid reports. It goes beyond a follow up system and a data storage. DLBCA is member of the Association of Tax Consultant – AITC & AVRIO, an alliance with 73 law firms in Europe, Asia and Oceania with the purpose of promoting a network of worldwide legal practice and with the objective of supplying legal services to Clients as if it were a single global law firm. Recently, DLBCA has been distinguished with the following awards and recognitions, among others: one of the most admired law firms in Consumer Law by Análise Editorial – 2013 and Full Service Law Firm of the Year in Brazil by ACQ Global Awards - 2012.

WINNER

BRAZIL - TAX ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR, DELOITTE - LATIN AMERICA – OVERALL TAX ADVISORY OF THE YEAR, DELOITTE Deloitte is a leader in Tax Consulting solutions in Brazil. Our team of specialists is recognized for their knowledge and skills to thoroughly support the challenges faced by clients both in Brazil and in more than 150 countries all over the world. We are a partner for local and international companies planning to set up in Brazil. Ourcapacity to deliver innovative solutions enables us to: - Support the organizations’ internal tax structure, so that they can free up resources and spend more time on their

- Provide solutions based on industry best practices and knowledge of the business; - Meet our clients´ needs with responsiveness and flexibility by offering multidisciplinary solutions;

Contact: Cristina Arantes de Almeida Berry Lead Tax Consulting Partner Tel: +55 11 5186 1013 caberry@deloitte.com.br www.deloitte.com.br

- Benefit from our proprietary enabling technology which interfaces with the client´s IT platform and Brazilian tax requirements. Deloitte’s solutions are designed to leverage the companies´ competitive potential in a complex and sophisticated tax environment

core activities;

USA

WINNER

- BOUTIQUE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR (IP) - DEVORE & DEMARCO LLP

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

US - CF BOUTIQUE OF THE YEAR (TMT) – Digital Capital Advisors, LLC Digital Capital Advisors, LLC (“DCA”) is the premier global investment banking boutique dedicated to serving innovative media companies for whom digital is core to their DNA – as well as those who would like it to be. Founded and run by long-time media investment bankers and former CEO’s, these advisors / investors / financiers / entrepreneurs have been fully immersed in and have helped shape the media landscape for the past 20 years, both online and offline. Such invaluable experience, well-honed insights and extensive relationships throughout the industry with both strategic operators and financial sponsors are of immense value to DCA’s clients as it helps them navigate the fast-changing media landscape and create superior value. DCA provides advisory services in the form of sell-side and buy-side M&A, as well as the private placement of equity and debt, for digital media companies throughout their evolution. Furthermore, the firm’s activities go far beyond just closing deals – both in providing market insights through its white papers that help enlighten an even larger audience than its current clients and in hosting events that facilitate open and important dialogue among leaders in the digital media space.

DCA’s key differentiators are a unique perspective as a result of the team’s invaluable blend of entrepreneurial chops and bulge bracket media investment banking experience, and expertise in seamlessly executing cross-border transactions, just as the digital world has knocked down those boundaries. DCA’s capabilities are enhanced by its recently-launched US venture capital fund, the Entrepreneur’s Investment Fund, its strategic alliance with eValue Group AG, a prolific and highly successful European venture capital fund, and by other important global alliances that have been formed over the years. From its headquarters high atop the iconic Empire State Building in New York City and offices strategically located in Los Angeles and Dusseldorf, DCA’s principals span the globe uniting and building digital leaders of today and tomorrow. They regard their client relationships as partnerships in the true meaning of the word – unified with one another in a sphere of common interest – as they help entrepreneurs and other business owners transfer various forms of capital into tangible and significant wealth.

Jay C. MacDonald CEO & Managing Partner Digital Capital Advisors, LLC Empire State Building, 350 Fifth Avenue, Suite 7640, New York, NY 10118 T +1 212 877 7100 E jay@digitalcapitaladvisors.com www.digitalcapitaladvisors.com

WINNER

MEXICO - INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, DUMONT BERGMAN BIDER & CO., S.C Dumont is a Mexican law firm, founded 73 years and has been engaged in filing, obtaining and arranging protection, for inventions (Patents, Utility Models and Industrial Designs), and for distinctive signs (trademarks, slogans and denominations of origin). Our practice extends to highly specialized areas such as Litigation, Corporate and Regulatory Affairs, Copyrights, Information Technologies, Corporate Law, Anti-counterfeiting, IP Valuation and Tax related issues, through a team of expert lawyers.

services. Dumont is the first Mexican Law Firm certified by the ISO 9001:2008 by TÜV Rheinland® (World leader in independent assessment services) for having a quality management system covering all our areas of services. Dumont has been ranked as one of the top IP Mexican Law Firms by organizations like Chambers & Partners and Managing Intellectual Property. As a result of the implementation of a quality management system, Dumont controls and improves its processes associated with the filing, conservation and protection of all

We combine experience and the dynamism of young and talented lawyers, who take ongoing training to provide value-added

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

forms of IP rights with an approach aimed

DUMONT BERGMAN BIDER & CO., S.C Av. Insurgentes Sur No. 1898 Pent Office 21 Floor, Col. Florida C.P. 01030 Del. Álvaro Obregón México D.F MEXICO T +52-55-5322 62 30

entirely to client satisfaction under the

F +52-55-5661 30 56

highest quality standards.

E mail@dumont.com.mx

WINNER

BRAZIL - HUMAN CAPITAL ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR, ERNST & YOUNG Partner Tatiana Ponte is in charge of the Human Capital practice at Ernst & Young South America (SASA), covering 10 countries including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay and Venezuela. Mrs. Ponte is also a member of the Ernst & Young Brazil Executive Committee and member of the board of EYU Brazil (Ernst & Young Corporate University). Human Capital is a sub area of Tax, and offers an end-to-end service to cover the complete life-cycle of expatriates in Brazil and Brazilians abroad, from immigration, tax, labour and social security perspectives in Brazil. Ernst & Young Terco’s Human Capital team is the only one in the country capable of providing end-to-end services for the complete global mobility lifecycle in Brazil. Our services are divided into five specialised areas: Assignment Services, Labour, Tax Compliance, Immigration, Tax Advisory.

We detain 52% of the market share for expatriates in Brazil; meanwhile, we were leaders in growth in 2012, due to our solid client relationships. We are contributing to a better working world in Brazil, and have been selected to be the exclusive human capital vendor for the Olympic Committee for the 2016 games. We are also assisting oil & gas companies to bring the necessary specialist foreign labour force to assist with the pre-salt – the significant oil reserves that were found in Brazilian deep waters.

Tatiana Ponte - Partner Ernst & Young Av Presidente Juscelino Kubitschek, 1830 7th Floor Tower 3 Itaim Bibi 04543-900 São Paulo Brazil T +55 11 2573-3773

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

US - LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR -Â GREGORY P. JOSEPH LAW OFFICES LLC

Greg Joseph is a past President of the American College of Trial Lawyers and former Chair of the 60,000 member Section of Litigation of the American Bar Association. He President of the U.S. Supreme Court Historical Society. The firm, GREGORY P. JOSEPH LAW OFFICES LLC, practices exclusively in the field of commercial litigation. High stakes commercial and financial cases are the Firmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mainstay. Greg Joseph is widely recognized as one of the leading commercial litigators in the United States. His treatise entitled SANCTIONS: THE FEDERAL LAW OF LITIGATION ABUSE (5th ed. 2013) has been described by one U.S. Court of Appeals as â&#x20AC;&#x153;a leading treatise on litigation sanctions,â&#x20AC;? and it is cited in the official commentary to the U.S. Federal Rules. He is the author of CIVIL RICO: A DEFINITIVE GUIDE (3d ed. 2010), which the HARVARD LAW REVIEW says â&#x20AC;&#x153;meticulously analyzes the decisionsâ&#x20AC;? and FORTUNE calls â&#x20AC;&#x153;the leading treatise on RICO.â&#x20AC;? He also wrote MODERN VISUAL EVIDENCE, which has been described by Communication Arts magazine as â&#x20AC;&#x153;the authoritative textâ&#x20AC;? on that subject. He has also written more than 100 articles in professional journals. Mr. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s books and articles are recognized authorities, having been cited by the courts in more than 200 published judicial opinions and cited by academics and practitioners in more than 300 law journal articles. In the recent past, the firm has been successful in a variety of significant cases, including: Ĺ&#x201D; 7Ĺ&#x201D; 7JDUPSZ PO BQQFBM BĹĽSNJOH B NJMMJPO KVEHNFOU in favor of Citibank against Morgan Stanley on a complicated securities /credit default swap transaction. Citibank, N.A. v. Morgan Stanley & Co. Intâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;l, PLC, 2012 U.S. App. LEXIS 20492 (2d Cir. Oct. 2, 2012) Ĺ&#x201D; %FGFBU PG DMBTT DFSUJĹŁDBUJPO JO B IVHF DMBTT BDUJPO CSPVHIU JO the United States District Court in Arizona on September 18, 2012, followed by victory in the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit refusing to review the denial. Bobbitt v. Milberg LLP, No. 12-80184 (9th Cir. Nov. 8, 2012). Ĺ&#x201D; 8JOOJOH B QFSNBOFOU JOKVODUJPO PO CFIBMG PG MBXZFS BOE law firm clients barring prosecution against them of a legal malpractice action in light of prior rulings in a securities class action, affirmed on appeal. Wyly v. Weiss, 2012 U.S. App. LEXIS 21032 (2d Cir. Oct. 10, 2012) Ĺ&#x201D; 0CUBJOJOH EJTDPWFSZ JO UIF 6OJUFE 4UBUFT GPS VTF JO MJUJHBUJPO in the Paris Commercial Court. In re Application of FinanciĂ¨re dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Authuit for an Order to Take Discovery of Lazard Ltd. pursuant to 28 U.S.C. Â§ 1782, No. 1:12-mc-00212-P1 (S.D.N.Y. July 24, 2012) Ĺ&#x201D; %JTNJTTBM PG QSPGFTTJPOBM NJTDPOEVDU DIBSHFT BHBJOTU UISFF separate sets of lawyers and law firms in the New York State Supreme Court, Commercial Division, and in the Departmental Disciplinary Committee of the First Department of the State of New York. The range of cases on which the Firm focuses traces largely to the subject matter of Greg Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s treatises and articles, which

address areas that tend to give rise to bet-the-company litigation. They include: Ĺ&#x201D; $PNQMFY ĹŁOBODJBM BOE DPNNFSDJBM USBOTBDUJPOT Ĺ&#x201D; 4FDVSJUJFT Ĺ&#x201D; 3*$0 UIF 3BDLFUFFS *OĹ¤VFODFE BOE $PSSVQU 0SHBOJ[BUJPOT "DU

Ĺ&#x201D; 4BODUJPOT Ĺ&#x201D; 'FEFSBM 1SPDFEVSF Ĺ&#x201D; 1SPGFTTJPOBM 3FTQPOTJCJMJUZ o Legal Malpractice o Legal Ethics The Firm has in the past few years increasingly been sought out by major law firms to represent them in connection with serious litigation directed against them or serious internal or regulatory issues. Without cultivating this practice area by means of any marketing, the Firm finds itself representing law firms around the United States, based in New York, Boston, San Francisco and New Orleans. The Firm is gratified by the fact that the most discerning consumers of legal services â&#x20AC;&#x201D; lawyers themselves â&#x20AC;&#x201D; request its assistance when a great deal is at stake for them. In addition to litigation and arbitration, focusing on trial and appeals, Greg Joseph also offers expert subject matter advice to other law firms embroiled in litigation in areas in which the Firm has specific expertise and the other firms do not, commonly including RICO, sanctions and litigation-provoking ethical issues. This advice includes helping to structure claims and defenses at the trial level and taking charge of matters, in whole or in part, at trial or on appeal. Greg Joseph also provides expert witness services in very select cases which, over the past four years, have included testimony concerning: the RICO statute and case law in a multibillion litigation venued in a Russian court in Moscow; the standard of care in a legal malpractice case concerning the ownership of Facebook; federal jurisdiction in a complex patent arbitration; and federal sanctions in a legal malpractice case TFFLJOH JO FYDFTT PG NJMMJPO JO EBNBHFT From the opinion of the Court in Gregory v. Oliver, 2002 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 24730 at *5 n.1, 2002 WL 31972165 at *2 n.1 (N.D. Ill. Dec. 27, 2002): â&#x20AC;&#x153;One of the true experts on federal practice, Gregory Joseph ... is one of this countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading litigators (a few years ago he served as chairman of the Section on Litigation of the American Bar Association) and is an extraordinarily prolific author in addition to maintaining an active law practice: Each year he updates his excellent works on Sanctions: The Federal Law of Litigation Abuse ... and on Modern Visual Evidence ... and he is a regular contributor to the National Law Journal with his periodic columns on Federal Practice). This Court and Greg were fellow members of the Judicial Conferenceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Advisory Committee on Rules of Evidence from the time of its reconstitution by Chief Justice Rehnquist during the early 1990s through the bulk of this Courtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s service as chairman of that Committee, which has just been completed on September 30, 2002.â&#x20AC;?

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

RECENT JUDICIAL OPINIONS RELYING ON GREG JOSEPH’S WORK

State Farm Mut. Auto. Ins. Co. v. Hill, 2012 N.C. App. LEXIS 352 (N.C. Ct. App. Mar. 20, 2012)

Hammary v. Soles, 2013 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 40033 (M.D.N.C. Mar. 22, 2013)

Cory v. Straub Int’l, 2012 Kan. App. Unpub. LEXIS 10 (Kan. Ct. App. Jan. 6, 2012)

Gerke v. Travelers Cas. Ins. Co. of Am., 2013 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 22254 (D. Or. Feb. 19, 2013)

Just Film, Inc. v. Merchant Servs., Inc., 2012 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 173455 (N.D. Cal. Dec. 6, 2012)

Martinez v. Garcia, 2012 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 158220 (N.D. Ill. Nov. 5, 2012)

RECENT ACADEMIC AND PROFESSIONAL ARTICLES CITING GREG JOSEPH’S WORK Ŕ Imwinkelried, Protecting the Attorney-Client Privilege in Business Negotiations: Would the Application of the Subject Matter Waiver Doctrine Really Drive Attorneys from the Bargaining Table?, 51 Duq. L. Rev. 167 (2013)

Goesel v. Boley Int’l (HK) Ltd,, 2012 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 152524 (N.D. Ill. Oct. 24, 2012):

Dorsett v. County of Nassau, 2012 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 79990 (E.D.N.Y. June 7, 2012)

Fox, The Return of “Voodoo Information”: A Call to Resist a Heightened Authentication Standard For Evidence Derived from Social Networking Websites, 62 Cath. U.L. Rev. 197 (2012)

Crooks, Fair Labor Fraud: The Peculiar Interplay of Civil RICO and the Federal Minimum Wage Act, 112 Colum. L. Rev. 2153 (2012)

Imwinkelried, The Validity of the 2010 Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 26 Amendment Governing the Waiver of Work Product Protection: Is the Work Product Doctrine an Evidentiary Privilege?, 39 U. Dayton L. Rev. 3 (2012)

Pannozzo, Uploading Guilt: Adding a Virtual Records Exception to the Federal Rules of Evidence, 44 Conn. L. Rev. 1695 (2012)

Sample v. Qwest Commc’ns Co. LLC, 2012 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 70927 (D. Ariz. May 22, 2012)

State ex rel. Hood v. AU Optronics Corp., 2012 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 62089 (S.D. Miss. May 3, 2012)

Rubloff Dev. Grp., Inc. v. SuperValu, Inc., 2012 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 41304 (N.D. Ill. Mar. 27, 2012)

Dorsett v. County of Nassau, 2012 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 71445 (E.D.N.Y. May 22, 2012)

Cameron v. Rohn, 2012 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 18986 (D.V.I. Feb. 14, 2012)

Simmons & Ritter, Texas’s Spoliation “Presumption”, 43 St. Mary’s L. J. 691 (2012)

State v. Laine, 2012 Wash. App. LEXIS 935 (Wash. Ct. App. April 24, 2012)

Coppola & DeMarco, Civil RICO: How Ambiguity Allowed the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act to Expand Beyond its Intended Purpose, 38 N.E. J. on Crim. & Civ. Con. 241 (2012)

Isensee, Enforcing Against The Enforcers: Ensuring Immigration Compliance Through Civil RICO, 49 Hous. L. Rev. 101 (2012)

Rosenthal, 25th Anniversary of the Summary Judgment Trilogy: Reflections on Summary Judgment 43 Loy. U. Chi. L.J. 471 (2012)

Simmons & Ritter, Texas’s Spoliation “Presumption”, 43 St. Mary’s L. J. 691 (2012)

Coppola & DeMarco, Civil RICO: How Ambiguity Allowed the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act to Expand Beyond its Intended Purpose, 38 N.E. J. on Crim. & Civ. Con. 241 (2012)

Isensee, Enforcing Against The Enforcers: Ensuring Immigration Compliance Through Civil RICO, 49 Hous. L. Rev. 101 (2012)

Poulin, Experience-Based Opinion Testimony: Strengthening the Lay Opinion Rule, 39 Pepp. L. Rev. 551 (2012)

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

US - US – LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY OF THE YEAR - Hanna Hasl-Kelchner, The No Nonsense Lawyer What you do in business and how you do it determines your M.O., your modus operandi. It’s how you roll. But, small hinges can swing big doors. Business reputations and lawsuits are made or broken by details. As a result, knowing which details matter and which don’t help separate great business enterprises from the merely good ones. Yet ironically, the legal aspects of business are among the least understood components of business leadership by decision makers. Business M.O., LLC fills this leadership gap for smart executives, managers, and entrepreneurs by helping them identify, create, and implement strategies to allocate their legal risks and manage conflict more effectively. Better corporate risk management accelerates the development of high performance and high integrity business cultures that help build great businesses. Leadership services include executive education, executive coaching, management training, mastermind groups, and independent general counsel services. Visit www.nononsenselawyer.com/businessmo/ for more information. Business M.O., LLC was founded by Hanna Hasl-Kelchner, Esq., The No Nonsense Lawyer™ and America’s Legal

Advocate for Entrepreneurs. Ms. Hasl-Kelchner is a licensed attorney and speaker whose specialty is the intersection of business and law. She is also an award winning best-selling author of Champions: Knockout Strategies for Health, Wealth and Success from Today’s Leading Experts; and Legal Literacy: What Every Manager Should Know About the Law. With more than 30 years of experience in private, government and in-house legal practice, an MBA from Cornell University, and teaching experience at two top tier US MBA programs (Duke University Fuqua School of Business and the Darden School at the University of Virginia), she understands what makes the world of business and law tick. Her analyses and recommendations have assisted influential decision makers ranging from start-ups to Big Tobacco, and the White House. Her expertise has also been featured in numerous print publications, on radio and television. She makes a no nonsense connection between law and business that is easy to understand, simple and fun. That’s why she’s been called a “lawyer you can love” by a Chicken Soup for the Soul co-author.

Hanna Hasl-Kelchner The No Nonsense Lawyer Founder and CEO Business M.O., LLC 179 E. Franklin Street, #54 Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA 27514 T 919-636-9677 E info@nononsenselawyer.com www.nononsenselawyer.com/ businessmo/

WINNER

US - OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - HERRICK, FEINSTEIN LLP Established market leaders and emerging entrepreneurs look to Herrick for legal counsel and business insights for their key corporate matters. The firm’s lawyers are seasoned in the realms of M&A, financing, hedge funds, private equity and a range of other areas and Herrick is a recognized leader in middle-market transactions. With Herrick, clients receive in-depth involvement from partners, efficiently staffed teams, and the value of deep relationships that bring diverse parties together. STEADY FLOW OF DEALS IN MIDDLE MARKET Middle market M&A is firm strength and Herrick’s lawyers have handled hundreds of such transactions, along with private equity deals, over the past few years. Among many highlights is the firm’s representation of longstanding client Yankee Global Enterprises in the sale of a significant stake in Yankees Entertainment and Sports Network (YES) to News Corp. We also advised leading fastening systems supplier Powers Fasteners in its successful sale to Stanley Black & Decker Inc. (NYSE:SWK) and counseled NASDAQ traded Mediware Information Systems, Inc. (MEDW), a leading provider of clinical software solutions, in reaching a merger agreement to be acquired by leading private equity investment firm Thoma Bravo, LLC.

SUSTAINING INNOVATION FOR HEDGE FUNDS Herrick was once again highlighted as one of a handful of law firms in the United States with a significant hedge fund practice. Recently we helped Elanus Capital Management form a managed account and fund platform to invest in credit linked notes and other capital relief instruments issued by European banks. We also formed two real estate investment funds, a commodities-focused fund for Beechdale Capital Management and a commodities based managed account platform for Modus Quantitative Advisors. RAMPING UP CLIENT FOR NEW MARKETS Herrick recently helped a multi-billion dollar registered investment advisor specializing in real estate investment products, to position for swift growth. Our client had secured two new and significant investment advisory and needed to re-evaluate its compliance procedures in light of the new entity’s requirements. Herrick acted as regulatory counsel, working with outside consultants to rapidly fine tune our client’s compliance mechanisms to accommodate the arrival of this new business.

New York 2 Park Avenue New York, New York 10016 T 212-592-1400 F 212-592-1500

Newark One Gateway Center Newark, New Jersey 07102 T 973-274-2000 F 973-274-2500

Princeton 210 Carnegie Center Princeton, New Jersey 08540 T 609-452-3800 F 609-520-9095 www.herrick.com

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

CANADA - CORPORATE FINANCE BOUTIQUE OF THE YEAR - IJW Management Inc. IJW Management Inc. was founded in 2004 and has since

Despite an M&A slowdown in Canada, IJW has managed to endure

become one of the fastest growing corporate finance boutiques

even in these difficult times. “Though the past several years have

headquartered in Montreal, Canada. The firm specializes

been difficult for the M&A market, IJW has been fortunate to

in advising companies with enterprise values between

have had quality clients in attractive market segments. This has

NJMMJPO BOE NJMMJPO BT SFMBUFE UP NFSHFST BOE

helped us continue to close some deals, albeit fewer, even in

acquisitions, corporate finance, and business valuation.

these difficult economic times” said Wooden. “The fact that we

“It is truly an honour to receive this award from ACQ Magazine as Canada’s Corporate Finance Boutique of the Year”, says Ian Wooden, IJW Management Inc.’s President and founder. “We

are generalists at IJW has definitely been a plus. We have been lucky to have a diversified portfolio of clients that allowed us to complete transactions in better performing market segments.”

would like to thank our industry peers for recognizing the

Looking forward, the team at IJW sees good market opportunities

quality of our work in the M&A market and are grateful for their

in Canada for international M&A. “There are currently numerous

vote of confidence that they exemplified in the polls”.

consolidation opportunities including the natural resource sector,

Although IJW provides various advisory services for corporate finance and M&A, they are most recognized in the Canadian market for their valuation expertise. “Whether we are engaged as buy-side or sell-side advisors, our private company clients recognize us for our strength in providing valuation advice for the pricing of securities for open market transactions”. IJW has advised on a multitude of transactions that closely mirror their valuations conducted in a notional environment. “The reality is,

amongst others”, comments Andrew Abrokwa-Ampadu, one of IJW’s analysts. “With these companies currently having difficulty in raising capital, there are many undervalued assets available at favourable valuations.” Despite still a tough M&A market, Riyad Latoundji, one of IJW’s M&A associates, believes that “As a whole, the M&A market will improve into 2014, but there is still a long haul ahead. Deals will still be slow to close, but this will improve as uncertainty in the economy declines.”

Ian Wooden - President IJW Management Inc. 1100 Bleury, 2nd Floor, Suite IJW Montreal, QC H2Z 1N4 Canada T 1-514-685-8047 ext. 103

what good is a valuation unless it determines the actual price

F 1-514-685-3946

a company will receive in the open market”.

www.ijw.ca

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

MEXICO - COMMERCIAL BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR -足 LARIOS & ASOCIADOS

LARIOS & ASOCIADOS ATTORNEYS AND BUSINESS ADVISORS LARIOS & ASOCIADOS is a full service Law Firm based in Mexico City with office also at Los Cabos, Baja California, Mexico. Our professional services comprise Corporate, Business, IP, Foreign Trade, International and Domestic Taxation, Immigration and Labor Law as well as Litigation. Since its foundation in 1992 the Firm has been constantly active offering the highest degree of prompt, qualified, profound and competitive fee cost service to a limited number of multinational clients through a personalized client-attorney relationship. It is our sincere belief that a client is better served by avoiding legal problems rather than responding to them. To this end, we attempt to keep our clients informed on a timely basis as to important legal, legislative and administrative developments which could, in any way, positively or negatively affect their business and operations in Mexico. The international development and expertise of the Firm is witnessed by our clientele which include a substantial number of American, Canadian, Chinese, Spanish, British, Colombian, Peruvian, Taiwanese and German corporations among others nationalities. The diversity of our clientele has allowed us to better understand the problems faced by investors in their international activities and particularly, in the establishment and/or enlargement of their business or commercial activities in our country. Mexico is the country which has entered into the biggest number of International Free Trade Agreements worldwide. As of today, Mexico has entered into 12 Free Trade Agreements with 44 countries, 28 Agreements for Investment Promotion and Protection and 9 Agreements with countries members of the Latin America Integration Association. The constant professional relationship with corporations of diverse nature has helped us to develop expertise in the assistance for the set up and/or enlargement of corporations, and also in the development of the legal structure for strategic alliances, either locally or abroad.

The Firm assures each client an overall, prompt, expert and cost-effective legal representation. Such expertise is immediately available, both in local and international practice, as well as in major disciplines, including corporate, banking and securities, telecommunications, intellectual property, international trade, labor, tourism and real estate, taxation, in-bond (maquiladora) industry, mining and administrative law, among others. Throughout the years, the Firm has been invited by congressmen and deputies to participate in the elaboration and draft of laws and regulations having developed as well an important lobbying practice expertise representing corporations interests in a strict ethical and professional way. We are very strict in the selection of our personnel. The lawyers and law clerks who work at the Firm are all fluent in English and are continuously trained and kept updated by attending in house and external seminars, and conferences. Each one of them has developed or is developing specific areas of practice that support the expertise and professional service that we provide to all of our clients. The Firm offers expert legal services in all aspects of business and commercial law, including the following: - Incorporation and organization of all types of legal entities. We pay special attention on the specific needs of our clients to draft the incorporation documents and the By-Laws. - Elaboration and updated maintenance of corporate documentation and records to show the agreements reached among the partners necessary for the correct management of the corporations in compliance with the relevant commercial law provisions. - Mergers and Acquisitions of any kind of commercial corporations, either of complete assets and/or stock or of specific divisions, through the stock market or private agreements. The Firm has considerable experience in carrying out complete legal audits to show the accurate status of companies and group of companies. This activity becomes especially important for companies in process of acquiring stock of

WINNER

incorporated companies to be aware of liabilities and/or contingencies involved in the transaction. - Recently the firm has been very active representing companies in mergers, consolidations, spin-offs and corporate reorganizations due to the importance that strategic alliances and consolidations have in commercial global activities today. We also provide counsel in recapitalizations, stock repurchases and other kind of specialized corporate matters. - The Firm has important experience in the dissolution and liquidation processes of all types of companies. We provide complete assistance to our clients in order to duly comply with all legal provisions and in drafting the relevant paper work to document the agreements reached among the shareholders and in its case, by the registered creditors. - Joint Ventures. The Firm has developed an important expertise on this field. Nowadays, due to the globalization of Mexican business, this topic is a key factor. We understand that these transactions are based on the agreement of several business groups, representing different interests focused on a common goal. We offer our clients overall assistance in the negotiation of terms and conditions of the joint venture agreements and in drafting the paper work related thereto. Our international practice primarily involves the accurate and detailed counsel to our clients regarding the main legal framework on foreign investment, its restrictions and actual deregulations depending on the specific area of practice that grant more confidence to foreign investors who see in our country a potentially strong place to develop their businesses. 1. Direct foreign investment in Mexico, including joint ventures and strategic alliances. 2. Advice in the negotiation and elaboration of domestic and foreign franchise agreements of diverse nature according to the Mexican legal framework involving franchises. 3. Advice in the obtainment of foreign financing for Mexican business enterprises. Elaboration of due diligence for corporations applying for financing abroad. 4. Registration, protection and licensee of trademarks, copyrights and technology transfer. 5. Negotiation and drafting of distribution and agency agreements. 6. In-bond (maquiladora) operations, obtainment of permits to import duty free machinery and equipment, and raw material for in-bond companies for the export of final products. 7. International trade, export financing and international sales.

WINNER

MEXICO - TRADEMARK LAWYER OF THE YEAR - LAURA COLLADA SALCIDO - DUMONT BERGMAN BIDER & CO SC Laura Collada Salcido has been the Managing Partner of the Mexican firm Dumont Bergman Bider & Co.,S.C. (DBB) since 2008. The firm is an IP boutique established more than 70 years ago and it has been a traditional key player on IP issues She is a lawyer, graduated with honours from the Instituto Tecnológico Autónomo de México (ITAM). Laura has Law Specializations in Intellectual Property, Corporate, Civil, Constitutional and Environmental Law from the Universidad Panamericana and a Legal Specialization in Contracts from the ITAM Mexico, all of them with honours as well. Laura started in the field very young in a renowned IP firm and then shifted to work at the Mexican Trademark Office (Instituto Mexicano de la Propiedad Industrial) where she was the Subdirector for the Prevention of Unfair Competition in which she was in charge of all administrative infractions. She returned to the private practice in 2000 joining DBB in which she was in charge of the Litigation Department.

She has also been teaching in several colleges and universities such as, ITAM, Universidad Panamericana, ITESM, basically IP litigation as well as copyrights. She also has written about IP on National newspapers and National and International IP magazines. She is a speaker at Conferences organized by different organizations. Laura actively participates in AMPPI (Mexican Chapter of AIPPI) and she is the Chair of the Trademark Committee. She is also involved in other organizations such as INTA, AIPPI, Marques, PTMG, ASIPI (for which she is the National Delegate), AIPF (member of the Board), BMA (Mexican Bar). Her practice includes the complete lifecycle of Intellectual Property rights, from consultancy, strategies, filing and prosecution, to resolving disputes involving these rights through litigation as well as negotiating settlements. She always tries to understand client´s needs to tailor up personal and adequate strategies for each and every case.

DUMONT BERGMAN BIDER & CO., S.C Av. Insurgentes Sur No. 1898 Pent Office 21 Floor, Col. Florida C.P. 01030 Del. Álvaro Obregón México D.F MEXICO T +52-55-5322 62 30 F +52-55-5661 30 56 E lcollada@dumont.com.mx

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

US - International Trade & Finance Law Firm of the Year - Oil & Gas Law Firm of the Year - Energy Law Firm of the Year - M&A Law Firm of the Year - Corporate Law Firm of the Year - Banking & Finance Law Firm of the Year - Private Equity Law Firm of the Year - Capital Markets Law Firm of the Year - Tax Law Firm of the Year - Shipping and Maritime Law Firm of the Year - Mining Law Firm of the Year - International Law Firm of the Year - Islamic Finance Law Firm of the Year - Internet and E-Commerce Law firm of the Year - Intellectual Property Law Firm of the Year - Real Estate Law Firm of the Year - Cross Border Law Firm of the Year - Aviation Law Firm of the Year, and - Full Service Law Firm of the Year

Saudi Arabia

- Overseas M&A Law Firm of the Year - Overseas Corporate Law Firm of the Year - Overseas Private Equity Law Firm of the Year

China

John J. Maalouf, Senior Partner of the Firm, has been ranked as one of the Top 10 International Trade & Finance Lawyers in the United States for the past eight consecutive years by the U.S. Lawyer Rankings (2006 – 2013 Editions) due to his commitment to excellence and outstanding client service. Maalouf Ashford & Talbot’s lawyers are internationally recognized as leading experts in the areas of International Finance Law, Mergers & Acquisitions Law, Energy Law, Private Equity Law, Project Finance Law, Asset Finance Law, Banking Law, Capital Markets Law, Corporate Law, Cross Border Law, Shipping & Maritime Law, Antitrust Law, Sharia Law, and Tax Law. In addition, Mr. Maalouf is an internationally recognized expert on matters involving China business law and co-author of the book “Inside the Minds: Best Practices for Mergers & Acquisitions in China”, published by Thomson West, the world’s most respected name in legal publishing. Maalouf Ashford & Talbot was among the first U.S. law firms in China, and the firm’s legal agreements and documents have become the industry

Maalouf Ashford & Talbot, LLP 500 Fifth Avenue, 14th Fl. New York, New York 10110 T 212.789.8717

- Overseas M&A Law Firm of the Year - Overseas Cross Border Law Firm of the Year - Overseas Banking & Finance Law Firm of the Year Maalouf Ashford & Talbot is among the world’s leading international financial services law firms with offices in New York City, London, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Riyadh, São Paulo and Beirut, with affiliated offices in over 30 different countries worldwide.

John J. Maalouf Senior Partner

F 212.789.8718

standard used by other law firms today. John J. Maalouf is also a recognized expert in the field of international initial public offerings (IPO’s) and is a leader in taking companies public on numerous international stock exchanges, including the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, Hong Kong Stock Exchange and London Stock Exchange.

E John.maalouf@maaloufashford.com www.maaloufashford.com

Maalouf Ashford & Talbot’s numerous accomplishments have led to the firm being named “Law Firm of the Year for 2012” in an unprecedented 16 distinct categories including: International Finance Law Firm of the Year, Corporate Law Firm of the Year, Energy Law Firm of the Year, M&A Law Firm of the Year, Banking Law Firm of the Year, Private Equity Law Firm of the Year, Project Finance Law Firm of the Year, Capital Markets Law Firm of the Year, Asset Finance Law Firm of the Year, Cross Border Law Firm of the Year, Shipping & Maritime Law Firm of the Year, Antitrust Law Firm of the Year, Tax Law Firm of the Year, Sharia Law Firm of the Year, Full Service Law Firm of the Year, and Most Trusted Law Firm of the Year. Maalouf Ashford’s reputation for excellence and breadth of expertise has made it the law firm of choice for many of the world’s leading corporations as they address the diverse legal and business challenges which they face.

WINNER

US - LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - Marashlian & Donahue, LLC – The CommLaw Group.

Marashlian & Donahue, LLC, The CommLaw Group, is not your ordinary law firm. Together with The Commpliance Group, its affiliated consultancy, The CommLaw Group is a professional services “organization” that was specially designed and staffed to service the full-range of legal, consulting and compliance needs of the communications, information technology and Internet services industries. Boasting a vibrant and diverse telecom law practice, The CommLaw Group currently serves hundreds of clients throughout the U.S. and internationally. The firm’s loyal base includes clients of all shapes and sizes, from startups to Fortune 100 enterprises, and from practically every sector of the communications and info tech industries.

Our professional services rates, flexible billing arrangements, and compensation system are all structured to promote stability and accommodate growth. We work hard to avoid sticker shock through proactive and candid communications with our clients and by ensuring our clients’ objectives are properly aligned with their budgetary expectations, and vice versa, prior to embarking on projects. And in a world in which “customer service” is considered a relic, we turn back the clock by pushing our attorneys and consulting professionals to continually expand and deepen not only their professional services skills, but their client servicing skills, as well.

In 2005, anticipating the seismic shift in the market for effective, yet affordable legal services, the firm set out to engineer its one-of-a-kind, “Full Spectrum” professional services business model. The ground-breaking processes developed by the firm enable it to provide value-driven, high-quality professional services that deliver businesssavvy solutions for reasonable, predictable, task appropriate costs; all provided with the customer-friendly approach that has become the firms’ hallmark characteristic.

The CommLaw Group is led by its founder and managing partner, Jonathan S. Marashlian, a nationallyrecognized expert in the areas of communications taxes, regulatory fees, regulatory litigation, audits and defense. Mr. Marashlian was awarded two 2013 Client Choice Awards by Lexology / International Law Office; named overall winner in the Telecommunications Law – USA category.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

Jonathan S. Marashlian Managing Partner Marashlian & Donahue 1420 Spring Hill Rd. Suite 401 McLean, Virginia 22102 E JSM@CommLawGroup.com www.CommLawGroup.com

WINNER

Colombia - FINANCIAL SERVICES BOUTIQUE OF THE YEAR, CAPITAL

Metropolitan Capital is an exclusive financial services boutique based in Bogota, Colombia providing financial and strategic advisory services. The firm offers capital raising, debt restructuring, joint ventures, and mergers and acquisitions advisory services. Additionally, it provides private banking services and private equity structuring advisory. The firm has an extensive rolodex in Colombia and the region. The firm attends a broad base of industries and has developed specialised know how in particular sectors such as real estate investment and development, financial institutions and telecommunications.

Metropolitan Capital was created five years ago by a group of financial executives with international experience. The company is a 100% employee owned financial boutique that caters to the needs of its customers by offering a world-class platform with direct and highly personal advice. The company works with a wide range of clients, both local and international. Within its client base, there are recognized multinationals and family owned companies. Metropolitan Capital and its affiliates are signatory of the United Nations Principles for Responsible Investment (UNPRI).

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

US - (ATLANTA) M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR -Â Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP - (SOUTH CAROLINA) -Â INDEPENDENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR -Â Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP - (SOUTH CAROLINA) -Â COMMERCIAL BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR -Â Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP - LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR -Â Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP Founded in 1897, Nelson Mullins (www.nelsonmullins.com) has nearly 500 attorneys and government relations professionals practicing from 14 offices in the eastern United States.

that clients receive partner-level attention throughout the engagement while maintaining cost-effective execution with well-trained and experienced associates.

Our M&A Group consists of over 60 attorneys across our platform, with a focus on private, middle-market negotiated transactions. In 2012 our M&A Group closed over 50 transactions with an aggregate dollar value of more than 64 #JMMJPO "UUPSOFZT JO PVS . " (SPVQ IBWF CFFO recognized in numerous publications, including Chambers & Partners/Chambers USA: Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leading Lawyers for Business; Georgia Trend magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual Legal Elite: Georgiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Most Effective Lawyers; The Best Lawyers in America and Super Lawyers. Several of our M&A attorneys are members of the ABAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Market Trends Subcommittee that publishes the popular â&#x20AC;&#x153;Deal Pointsâ&#x20AC;? studies of prevailing market terms in private and public target M&A. One of our partners founded the Southeastern M&A Forum and is involved in organizing the Southeastern Private Equity Summit and the Southeastern Distressed M&A Summit.

Our M&A attorneys have deep industry experience in banking, finance, business services, consumer products, defense and homeland security, distribution, healthcare, hospitality, manufacturing, media, pharmaceuticals, retail, social media, software, technology, telecommunications and transportation.

Middle market transactions are different from the deals that make the front page of the Wall Street Journal â&#x20AC;&#x201C; our team understands these differences. Our staffing model ensures

In addition to the more than 60 lawyers dedicated to M&A matters, Nelson Mullins has a strong team of supporting professionals in antitrust, corporate, employee benefits, employment and labor, environmental, finance, intellectual property, litigation, private equity, real estate, securities and tax to provide our clients with superior deal execution in a cost-effective manner. If Nelson Mullins looks like the law firm you want in your corner for M&A deals, or if you just want to learn more about us, please call one of our M&A Practice Group Co-Leaders, Gus Dixon, Michael Hollingsworth or Rhys Wilson. Let us show you how our M&A lawyers can help you achieve your business goals.

Gus M. Dixon Partner gus.dixon@nelsonmullins.com T: 803.255.9491 F: 803.255.5160 Meridian, 17th Floor, 1320 Main Street, Columbia, SC 29201

Michael E. Hollingsworth II Partner michael.hollingsworth@nelsonmullins.com T: 404.322.6080 F: 404.322.6321 Atlantic Station, 201 17th Street NW, Suite 1700, Atlanta, GA 30363

Rhys T. Wilson Partner rhys.wilson@nelsonmullins.com T: 404.322.6269 F: 404.322.6050 Atlantic Station, 201 17th Street NW, Suite 1700, Atlanta, GA 30363

WINNER

PANAMA - M&A / CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR -Â Pardini & Asociados Pardini & Associates is a prestigious law firm in Panama with 30 years of tradition and experience advising foreign clients and corporations of all sizes.

privatization, merger of oil companies, real estate development, airline acquisition, information technology, water and infrastructure projects.

The firm was founded in 1982 in Panama with an original practice in Corporate, Commercial, Trust and Maritime law, which still continues today.

Currently, Pardini & Associates has offices in Panama, Cyprus, Switzerland, Belize, BVI, Seychelles and Ukraine. To serve their customers effectively and efficiently anywhere in the world, the company also is the exclusive Panama member of the International Business Law Consortium (IBLC), a private association of law firms with more than 100 associate offices around the world.

Since then, Pardini & Associates has been at the forefront of many innovative legal developments and during the past ten years, the law firm has developed a highly specialized practice in Foreign Investments in Panama mainly in areas such as: Tourism, Real Estate, Energy, Telecommunications, Insurance and Reinsurance, Mining, Petroleum, Antitrust, Competition, Intellectual Property, Banking, Securities, Manufacturing, Aviation, Construction, Government Contracts, Litigation in Panama and abroad. Our firm has a strong expertise in Labor and Immigration matters. During the last years, the law firm acted and assisted clients in different and important projects such as container port acquisition, electricity generation, mining joint venture, airport

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

Last year, Pardini & Associates received from ACQ Global Awards 2012 the recognition as â&#x20AC;&#x153;Corporate Law Firm and Litigation Law Firm of the Yearâ&#x20AC;?. Also our firm won the Acquisition International M&A Awards as â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mining & Energy Law Firm of the Year: Panamaâ&#x20AC;? and was chosen as the winner of the Corporate Intl Magazine Global Award 2012 for the category: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Aviation Law Firm of the Year in Panamaâ&#x20AC;?. These awards confirm our reputation and experience providing strong and confident services in local and international markets.

Pardini & Associates Attorneys at Law Plaza 2000 Tower 10th Floor 50th Avenue Panama City Panama Contact Details Juan Francisco Pardini E pardini@padela.com www.pardinilaw.com

BRAZIL - LEADING CUSTOMER SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, Milaré Advogados

The Milaré Advogados Law Firm has, for consecutive years, been awarded with remarks and honors that certify its excellence. Recently, the firm was mentioned as the best institution in terms of customer service. By all means, this qualification, in addition to being a great honor, encourages a continuously perfected performance. We should point out that this characteristic of Milaré Advogados is the result of an international scenario that has established the evolution of environmental advocacy since the 1980s: awareness of the finite nature of natural resources and the need for profound changes in human society’s relationship with the natural world. This awareness began to take shape with the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment, held in Stockholm in June, 1972, meaning this awareness has existed for a little over 40 years. A comprehensive study on the indisputable limits to growth has opened the eyes of scientists, politicians and business people from all over the Western world, because it is in the West, with its own style of civilization, where there was and still is a growing demand for resources for economic growth. This is not, however, a necessarily plausible development model because it does not take into account environmental and social demands. This awareness favored the holding of the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development in Rio de Janeiro in June, 1992 (Rio 92). This Conference was preceded by data collection by the World Commission on Environment and Development, comprised of scientists from all over the world. In 1987, this Commission presented its famous report entitled “Our Common Future,” also known as “The Brundtland Report,” which took precedence in speaking about Sustainable Development. As a result, concern regarding the sustainability of planet Earth became a catchphrase that still determines policies and actions to reconcile economic growth with environmental and social needs. It is easy to understand why the business world began to seek new forms to relate with the natural world and its resources, resorting to scientific studies and standards, including Environmental Law principles and their respective policies. Brazil was one of the pioneers of this renewal when, in August 1981, it passed the National Environment Policy (Law 6939/1981) which defined concepts and established actions to ensure the permanence and the quality of the environment and of

WINNER

natural resources. Consequently, in keeping with scientific and technical studies, Environmental Law was encouraged in terms of developing a Doctrine and subsidies for this legislation. This can be seen in the fact that the Constitution of the Republic, issued in October 1988, had a specific chapter devoted to the Environment in article 225. Many national policies geared towards the various aspects and needs of the Environment in Brazil’s extensive national territory were derived from this article. We cannot omit this political, environmental and administrative panorama that illustrates and lays the foundations for Environmental Law and Environmental Advocacy. The Milaré Advogados Law Firm has been aligned with this process since December 1995. The founder of the firm, Édis Milaré, created the first Department for Public Prosecution for Environmental issues in the mid-1980s. The Department has become an efficient support center for the Ministry of Justice of the State of São Paulo in Brazil. He was also the Secretary of State for the Environment, and later President of the Fundação Florestal foundation. He then left to create the firm, which has been operating for 18 years. The firm began small and grew by opening new paths. It has formed and consolidated its staff of lawyers and paralegals assisted by technical advisors. There are no intentions for the current Firm to grow indefinitely, having adopting the style and dimensions of so-called boutique firms. It currently has 15 lawyers, eight paralegals and five technical advisors. The relationship with customers is open and cordial, as they are regarded as agents of sustainable development, advised to work within legal parameters and go beyond legal requirements to adopt attitudes of citizenship. This is how Milaré Advogados has participated in major infrastructure projects for national development in various parts of this country with continental dimensions. It is impossible to disconnect the firm’s work from careful drafting of legal environmental doctrine. The book Direito do Ambiente (Environmental Law), by Édis Milaré, has followed all of this growth in doctrine and practice, having become a reference on the subject. This has been the trajectory of the Milaré Advogados Law Firm. The awareness of the need to grow is not aimed at quantity, but rather at quality and constantly updating the firm’s work.

Brazil Office: Rua Clodomiro Amazonas, 1099, Cj. 124, Itaim Bibi, São- Paulo – SP, 04537-012 T 55-11-30467470 E milare@milare.adv.br

Work Contacts: Energy, Mining and Banking Priscila Santos Artigas E priscila@milare.adv.br

Agribusiness, Real Estate, Audits, Natural and Genetic Resources, Biosafety and Forestr Roberta Jardim de Morais E roberta@milare.adv.br

Contaminated Areas, Infrastructure, Allotments and Solid Waste Rita Maria Borges Franco E rita@milare.adv.br

Gas, Construction and Engineering, Carbon and Retail Market, Transport Ana Claudia La Plata de M. Franco E anaclaudia@milare.adv.br

Criminal Environmental Law Édis Milaré e Lucas Milaré E milare@milare.adv.br E lucas@milare.adv.br

BAHAMAS

WINNER

- CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR -Â PARRIS WHITTAKER

PARRISWHITTAKER

Award-winning law firm Parris Whittaker is named Bahamas Corporate Law Firm of the Year, confirming its reputation for absolute dedication to their clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; best interests, and an ability to achieve a successful outcome against any odds. Whether advising small firms or major international corporations, the corporate lawyers at Parris Whittaker are known for a rigorous and determined approach, always going the extra mile in pursuit of the best possible outcome for their client. And ever mindful of the business imperative in hiring a litigator, Parris Whittaker represents a sound investment in the future prospects of a company. With Bahamian corporate law notoriously complex â&#x20AC;&#x201C; particularly for foreign investors drawn to its unique offshore opportunities â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Parris Whittaker are the first choice for corporations keen to make the most of their business. Key aspects of Parris Whittakerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s corporate legal services include: Ĺ&#x201D; 6OEFSUBLJOH UIF TVDDFTTGVM JODPSQPSBUJPO of new companies; Ĺ&#x201D; &Ĺ˘FDUJWF CVTJOFTT SFTUSVDUVSJOH Ĺ&#x201D; 4XJGU JOUVJUJWF CPBSE SFTPMVUJPOT Ĺ&#x201D; %BZ UP EBZ BEWJDF PO UIF MFHBM BTQFDUT PG CVTJOFTT BĹ˘BJST and

From the initial stages of an exciting new business prospect through to the complex negotiations implicit in manage a large corporation, the lawyers at Parris Whittaker provide detailed advice perfectly fitted to their clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; needs. Areas of particular expertise include e-Business and e-Commerce law; employment and immigration law; Grand Bahama Port Authority license applications; intellectual property and trademark matters; and real estate and commercial property transactions. Partners Arthur K. Parris, Jr, Kenra Parris-Whittaker and Jacy Whittaker together combine many yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; corporate legislation experience, in depth legal expertise and a reputation for rigorous advocacy. Proud to be members of the vibrant Bahamas business community, they command the respect of partners in the business, industry and legal sector. Perhaps most crucially, Parris Whittaker take an integrated approach to their corporate legal services, and seek to build sage, intuitive legal advice into the daily running of their clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; business. Rather than an operating an arms-length relationship, they function as true business partners â&#x20AC;&#x201C; at a fraction of the cost of an in-house legal department. It is this holistic approach, combined with a reputation for ruthless determination to serve their clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; needs, that places Parris Whittaker at the top of the corporate legal services profession.

ParrisWhittaker Suite 10, Seventeen Centre Bank Lane P.O. Box F-43018 Freeport, Grand Bahama The Bahamas t: +242 352 6110

Ĺ&#x201D; $SFBUJWF TPMVUJPOT UP TIBSFIPMEFS EJTQVUFT

t: +242 352 6112

BAHAMAS

WINNER

- SHIPPING AND MARITIME LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR -Â PARRIS WHITTAKER

PARRISWHITTAKER

Top Bahamas law firm Parris Whittaker is named Shipping and Maritime Law Firm of the Year. With partners that combine many yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience and expertise with a vigorous approach to advocacy and reputation for diligent preparation, Parris Whittakerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s position as top shipping and maritime firm is assured. Central to Parris Whittakerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reputation is an understanding of the need for speed when it comes to shipping and maritime law. Few businesses are more likely to find themselves swiftly and urgently in need of sound legal advice than those involving shipping â&#x20AC;&#x201C; when at sea, legal rights can literally sail away. As one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest and busiest container ports, the Bahamas is a compelling prospect for maritime business, and Parris Whittaker have devoted years to building a sound reputation and solid partnerships, including with the Port Authorities. With clients ranging from individuals to major international corporations, each case is pursed with absolute dedication to the best interests of their client, and an understanding of the crucial importance of a swift outcome. Partners Kenra Parris-Whittaker and Jacy Whittaker act with remarkable speed on behalf of maritime clients, whether undertaking or resolving vessel arrests, or advising crew members. Recent important cases include an important

Supreme Court ruling in which a significant sum was successfully secured for a high profile client and the firm successfully acted on behalf of 18 crewmembers in securing outstanding wages. But it is not just the high-profile, high-value cases which Parris Whittaker pursue with rigour and expertise: they are equally dedicated to working on behalf of individuals crew members who have suffered personal injury on board ship. The firm offers a comprehensive range of maritime and shipping legal services, including: Ĺ&#x201D; 4XJGU BOE FĹ˘FDUJWF WFTTFM BSSFTUT Ĺ&#x201D; 4QFFEZ SFTPMVUJPO PG WFTTFM BSSFTUT Ĺ&#x201D; "EWJTJOH PO GPSFJHO NPSUHBHFT Ĺ&#x201D; 6ODPNQSPNJTJOH BEWPDBDZ GPS UIF SJHIUT of crew members; and Ĺ&#x201D; 2VJDL SFTPMVUJPO PG NBSJUJNF MJFO BOE ship mortgage disputes. Ultimately, the ethos of this award-winning firm is that every client is deserving of a legal service which is passionately dedicated to their best interests â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and a belief that a sound and just outcome is every clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s right.

ParrisWhittaker Suite 10, Seventeen Centre Bank Lane P.O. Box F-43018 Freeport, Grand Bahama The Bahamas t: +242 352 6110 t: +242 352 6112

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

BRAZIL - CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - PEDRO MIGUEL AND ASSOCIATED ATTORNEYS - SPORTS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - PEDRO MIGUEL AND ASSOCIATED ATTORNEY Pedro Miguel and Associated Attorneys’ professional team is well prepared to provide quality and effectiveness in facing challenges in varied legal fields, with more than 20 years’ experience.

Working under the concept of a “Boutique Office”, we are structured and organized in Brazil and Spain. We are aimed specifically at giving legal advice to companies carrying out, or intending to carry out, their activities.

Providing a wide range of legal services, responding swiftly to demands and a personalized service for all clients are some of the fundamental concerns at PMAA. The excellence of the legal services at PMAA is based on the lawyers of the firm, who are experienced in a wide variety of activities such as independent bar-practice, legal advice to International Companies, legal counsel to business groups, university investigation, teaching in different countries “How to spread their business overseas”, etc.”

PEDRO MIGUEL ADVOGADOS ASSOCIADOS Headquarters St 23 de Maio, 166 - Vila Tereza, São Bernardo do Campo São Paulo T 55 11 4177.1331/4177.4664 E heitormiguel@pmaa.adv.br E vitormiguel@pmaa.adv.br Branch ETower, 35º floor St Funchal, 418 – Vila Olimpia, São Paulo T 55 11 3521.7315 www.pmaa.adv.br

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

- TRANSFER PRICING ADVISORY OF THE YEAR – PETERS ADVISORS Peters Advisors LLC is an independent provider of transfer pricing and tax valuation services. The firm was founded by Dan Peters, who has more than 20 years of transfer pricing experience and was formerly the Global Transfer Pricing and Valuation Services leader at a Big 4 firm and a global specialty consulting services company. Formed as an alternative to the traditional transfer pricing and tax valuation providers, Peters Advisors focuses on delivering highly innovative and pragmatic solutions to complex issues. In support of this philosophy, since its inception the firm has maintained a ratio of partners to junior level resources of at least 1:1. The partners are deeply involved in all client matters, including strategic decisions, day-to-day management as well as the execution and oversight of project deliverables. Peters Advisors services multinational corporations throughout the United States and in a number of foreign jurisdictions. The firm’s clients range from small- and middle-market companies to some of the world’s largest enterprises, including Fortune 50 companies. Although Peters Advisors has grown tremendously in recent years, the firm remains dedicated to its core areas of expertise in transfer pricing and tax valuation.

Ŕ T ransfer Pricing Planning: all aspects of transfer pricing planning, including global policy development, advance pricing agreements (APAs), intangible property valuation and cost-sharing, in addition to a range of customized planning solutions. Ŕ T ransfer Pricing Compliance: U.S. transfer pricing compliance for Federal and State tax purposes, Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Masterfile documentation, as well as individual country documentation in accordance with local regulations. Ŕ T ransfer Pricing Disputes: representation of clients in transfer pricing controversies upon tax audit and throughout the appellate process. Ŕ T ax Valuation: valuation studies in connection with the transfer of intellectual property for both sale and license, including technology rights, patents, trademarks, trade names and goodwill. Peters Advisors is a full-services transfer pricing and tax valuation firm that is dedicated to achieving outstanding results through a commitment to provide focused, pragmatic and insightful advice to its clients.

Peters Advisors www.petersadvisors.com

WINNER

BRAZIL - CORPORATE RECRUITMENT SPECIALIST OF THE YEAR – QUATRE RECURSOS HUMANOS QUATRE RECURSOS HUMANOS was founded in 1990 and provides HR services across the whole of Brazil in any industry or sector. We have clients in IT, Logistics, Energy, Mining, Finances, Transport, Services, Telecom, Education, Manufacturing and Production, Chemical Industry, as well as many others. For more than two decades QUATRE have been supporting national and transnational companies in their demands for Recruitment, Headhunting, Specialised Search Assignments, Talent Acquisition Consultancy, Trainee Programs, Outplacement, Career and Salary Planning, Climate Research and Assessment, Career Mentoring, Performance Evaluation and Coaching (International Coaches certified by ICC – International Coaching Community). As a member-owner of NPA Worldwide recruiting network, QUATRE has an international reach on five continents and its Director, Daniela Vidigal, after 2 years as NPA Ambassador for South America, was nominated as Managing Director for the NPA South America Region. Working with an

QUATRE is a reliable and dedicated partner in designing solutions for international companies locating their first employee(s) in Brazil or strengthening existing activities in the country, with a deep understanding of local market, regional culture and legal practices, that may differ in a country with wider continental dimensions such as Brazil. Lead by Psychologists and Anthropologists, one of QUATRE’s distinguishing features is the outstanding ability to fully understand each client’s unique corporate culture. QUATRE has strong relations with the best universities in Brazil, which enables the firm to track developing talent, which can then be made available to its clients in the future, as well as having a specialised expatriation partnership to support companies hiring non-Brazilian talent. During the early 90’s Quatre won an international bidding at auction from The World Bank, and because of the high quality of its technical proposal, became responsible for a national project for the RFFSA [Federal Railroad] privatisation process, simultaneously implemented in 19 Brazilian states and involving more than 5,800 positions.

NPA member ensures global reach with timely response,

QUATRE is your very Brazilian HR partner.

industry/occupational knowledge, cultural sensitivity and

Read more about QUATRE http://www.quatre.com.br/institucional/ quatre-hr-brazil/

unparalleled integrity.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

CONTACT: Mrs. LENA VIDIGAL Founder

CONTACT: Daniela Vidigal Social Scientist – MsC Anthropologist QUATRE RECURSOS HUMANOS Director NPA Managing Director for South America Region danielavidigal@quatre.com.br Skype: danividigal LinkedIn: http://br.linkedin.com/in/danielavidigal +55 11 94240 40 44 +55 31 3484-4746 www.quatre.com.br QUATRE is a member-owner of NPA, The Worldwide Recruiting Network, your connection to premier independent recruiting firms located throughout Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa and the Americas.

BRAZIL

WINNER

- BANKRUPTCY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, RAMOS, ZUANON E MANASSERO ADVOGADOS Managing Partner: Fábio P Zuanon Senior Partners: Christian Ramos, Fábio P Zuanon, José Eduardo Manassero Number of partners: 6 Number of other lawyers: 30 THE FIRM: Ramos, Zuanon e Manassero Advogados is a law firm with relevant experience in the structuring and negotiation of high complexity finance and corporate transactions, including advice in cross border loans, M&A, capital markets and foreign investment related deals. RZM is also recognised for its experience in commercial litigation, credit recovery and alternative dispute resolutions.

Corporate & M&A: Corporate matters involving foreign and local investments in Brazil and Brazilian companies investing abroad, purchase and sale of companies/assets, joint ventures, corporate reorganisations, private equity transactions, consortium agreements and corporate restructurings. Real Estate: Purchase, sale and lease agreements, real estate developments and construction agreements. Tax: Corporate tax matters, tax impacts on M&A transactions, transfer pricing rules, general tax consulting and administrative and judicial tax litigation. Restructuring & Insolvency: Corporate litigation, restructuring and insolvency procedures, contracts’ and commercial litigation.

MAIN AREAS OF PRACTICE: Banking & Finance: Cross border loans, trade finance, commodity finance, issuance of debt and equity securities (public offers and private placements), tender offers, securitisation, mortgage-backed securities, asset-backed securities, investments in private equity funds (FIP), investments in receivables funds (FIDC) and investments in real estate funds (FII).

INTERNATIONAL WORK: The firm offers legal advice to foreign individuals and legal entities in connection with foreign investments, joint ventures, project finance, M&A, corporate disputes, development of investment structures, reorganisations, financial products, commercial transactions, access to Brazilian capital markets, general tax advice and credit recovery.

Project Finance & Infrastructure: Structuring and negotiation of project finance transactions, public concessions and public-private partnerships (PPPs), as well as advice on regulatory issues (transportation, energy, oil and gas, telecommunications).

CLIENTS: RZM represents a number of the leading Brazilian and International financial institutions, investment funds and companies, in transactions across all sectors of the economy, being well recognised for its work in the agribusiness sector.

LANGUAGES: English, Italian, Spanish and Portuguese.

RAMOS, ZUANON E MANASSERO ADVOGADOS Rua São Tomé, 86 11º andar 04551-080 São Paulo-SP Brasil T +55 (11) 2599-9010 F +55 (11) 3848-9449 E vivian.farias@rzmadvogados.com.br www.rzmadvogados.com.br CONTACTS Banking & Finance: Christian de Lima Ramos José Eduardo Manassero Project Finance & Infrastructure: José Eduardo Manassero Corporate & M&A: Christian de Lima Ramos José Eduardo Manassero Lilian Toscani Real Estate: José Eduardo Manassero Tax: Eduardo Salgado Felipe Restructuring & Insolvency: Fábio Pascual Zuanon Bruno Alexandre Gutierres

WINNER

MEXICO - ASSET FINANCE - MOST RESPECTED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - RIVERA BELDEN & GARCÍA SÁNCHEZ Rivera Belden & García Sánchez (RBG) is a law firm conformed by a group of professionals highly qualified in granting services to institutional clients and to advise in the structuring of legal projects requiring specialization and innovation. RBG was founded with the purpose of offering a new alternative for national or international clients requiring sophisticated legal services providing high quality services at reasonable costs. We specializes in representing Mexican and International banks, insurance companies, development banks, financial entities, institutional organization and International and Mexican companies in their transactions in México. We also advise real estate funds and developers on their investments, acquisitions, placements and leasing transactions. RBG’s clients includes MetLife, Eurohypo, Bank of Tokyo, GE Capital, the International Finance Corporation, the Inter-American Investment Corporation, Bancomext (Banco de Comercio Exterior), Lloyds Bank, HewlettPackard Financial Services, Mitsubishi Corporation, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, The American British Cowdray Medical Center, Grupo Bafar and many of the leading Mexican and International real estate developers and investment funds.

We have obtained awards and prizes as the best Mexican Law Firm and Lawyers Practicers in the areas of Asset Finance and Real Estate from the International Law Office in London and the prestigious legal magazine Who’s Who. The Fundamentals of our firm are: High Quality Services: Our client’s satisfaction is our highest priority. The firm’s attorneys are well trained and devoted to provide the highest quality of legal services, taking into consideration our clients particular needs. Expedited Response: Recognizing that time is essential to our clients, we commit to provide our services in an expedited manner, without compromising quality. Team Approach: To best serve our client’s interest, we offer a team of expert attorneys in all areas of practice of our firm, having all kind of skills for working as a team and considering all perspectives of our client’s matters. Understanding our clients: We focus in understanding the business and needs of our clients to provide them personalized high quality legal services. Reasonable fees: We know that payment of excessive legal fees has been one of our client’s main concerns. To support our clients with such concern, we offer our legal services at reasonable competitive rates, without compromising quality.

RIVERA BELDEN & GARCÍA SANCHEZ Av. Juan Salvador Agraz 97, piso 4A Santa Fe 05109 México, D.F. T +52-55-5004-0480 through 89 e-mail: rbg@rbg.com.mx website: www.rbg.com.mx

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

MEXICO - BANKRUPTCY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - RIVERA GAXIOLA Y ASOCIADOS, S.C. Firm profile: Rivera Gaxiola y Asociados, S.C is a law firm specialized mainly in litigation, specifically Bankruptcies, Financial Restructurings, Shareholders Controversies, Commercial, Civil and Administrative Litigation. We distinguish as an aggressive firm on the court, with strict coordination between paralegals at court and associates at the office to enhance a greater control of our cases. Also, we consider having a magnificent client-lawyer relationship, in order to explain the procedures and strategy throughout the cases.

Areas of expertise: Ŕ Civil, Commercial and Administrative Litigation. Ŕ International and Domestic Arbitration. Ŕ Bankruptcies. Ŕ Financial Restructurings. Ŕ Shareholders Controversies and Disputes. Ŕ Telecommunications Ŕ Aviation Law. Ŕ Bonds and Bails. Ŕ Insurances. Ŕ Energy.

The law firm was founded on December 2, 2002. Our headquarters are located in Mexico City, with an office in Nuevo León, Monterrey, we have practice all over the country, through our own staff or through strategic alliances and associations with local top firms. Nowadays our firm is one of the most important and well known firms in Mexico.

Notable work (100 words): We are no to communicate our clients names under confidential agreements, but if it is necessary, let us known, and we could maybe arrange some kind of permission to mention some cases. Individual Profile Alonso Rivera Gaxiola, Founding and Senior Partner of Rivera Gaxiola y Asociados, S.C., is an Attorney by the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, he has extensive experience in civil, commercial, corporate and administrative litigation throughout the country, as much as in national and international arbitration, Bankruptcies and Financial Restructurings.

Mr. Alonso Rivera Gaxiola. Founding and Senior Partner Rivera Gaxiola y Asociados, S.C Boulevard Manuel Ávila Camacho 32 11th Floor. Lomas de Chapultepec, Mexico City Mexico T +52 55 1084 1230 F +52 55 1084 1239 E Arivera@rgya.com www.rgya.com

WINNER

MEXICO - LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - RIVERA GAXIOLA Y ASOCIADOS, S.C. Firm profile: Rivera Gaxiola y Asociados, S.C is a law firm specialized mainly in litigation, specifically Bankruptcies, Financial Restructurings, Shareholders Controversies, Commercial, Civil and Administrative Litigation. We distinguish as an aggressive firm on the court, with strict coordination between paralegals at court and associates at the office to enhance a greater control of our cases. Also, we consider having a magnificent client-lawyer relationship, in order to explain the procedures and strategy throughout the cases.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

Individual Profile Alonso Rivera Gaxiola, Founding and Senior Partner of Rivera Gaxiola y Asociados, S.C., is an Attorney by the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, he has extensive experience in civil, commercial, corporate and administrative litigation throughout the country, as much as in national and international arbitration, Bankruptcies and Financial Restructurings.

WINNER

US (TENNESSEE)

- LEADING LAWYERS OF THE YEAR - Bass, Berry & Sims PLC 21 Tennessee attorneys “Leading Lawyers of the Year” in their respective practices.

MEET 21 OF THE

LEADING LAWYERS OF THE YEAR We are honored that 21 of our Tennessee (US) attorneys have been named “Leading Lawyers of the Year” by ACQ Magazine. Robert L. Brewer

Paul G. Jennings

Wallace W. Dietz

J. Richard Lodge

Felix R. Dowsley

Wills, Trusts, Estates & Probate

E-Commerce & Information Technology | Intellectual Property White Collar Crime

Commercial Transactions | Lending & Secured Transactions

Robert L. Echols

ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) | Appellate

Mary Beth Fortugno Healthcare & Hospital Law

J. Andrew Goddard Environmental

James C. Gooch

Wills, Trusts, Estates & Probate

John A. Good

Corporate Finance & Capital Markets

Bankruptcy & Insolvency

Gov’t Relations, Legislation & Lobbying | International Law |

George H. Masterson

Municipal & Public Financing | Public Finance

Todd J. Rolapp

Business, Corporate & Securities

D. Mark Sheets

Commercial Transactions | Real Estate/Real Property

Michael D. Sontag Taxation

T. Stephen C. Taylor Insurance & Reinsurance

Bob F. Thompson

R. Dale Grimes

Banking & Financial Services

Antitrust | Communications | Energy | Public Utilities | Telecommunications

Overton Thompson

Robert W. Horton Labor & Employment

L. Wearen Hughes

Litigation | Tort Litigation/Product Liability

David A. Thornton

Employee Benefits & Exec. Comp.

Construction & Engineering

Nashville • Knoxville • Memphis • Washington, D.C.

bassberry.com ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

USA - PHARMACEUTICAL LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - WASHINGTON DC - INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY ATTORNEY OF THE YEAR, R. DANNY HUNTINGTON Rothwell, Figg, Ernst & Manbeck, P.C. (RFEM) is engaged since 1981 in the practice of intellectual property law worldwide and is a recognized leader in the field. RFEM’s experienced attorneys and other professional staffers serve as IP counsel representing diverse clients, including public and private companies at various growth stages, from start-up to Fortune 500, in multiple industries, technologies and fields. Our firm’s patent practice is directed primarily toward clients engaged in sophisticated technological areas, e.g. the biotechnology and pharmaceutical fields; computer hardware and software and the Internet; semiconductors; advanced electronics; medical devices; and a variety of mechanical systems and devices. We also have a significant trade identity practice, representing clients in the fields of trademarks, service marks, trade names, unfair competition, character protection, etc. Although RFEM has

special intellectual property litigation expertise, a significant aspect of our practice is devoted to acquiring patent, trademark and copyright rights, providing infringement and validity opinions, handling IP-related transactions and counseling. Our guiding principle is to provide the highest quality professional services on a timely basis at a reasonable charge. Our professional fees may be based on the actual amount of time expended on a project, on a fixed fee or hybrid arrangement. Most RFEM attorneys involved in technological areas have a scientific or engineering education in addition to their legal education and bar admission. (Many US general practice firms have numerous attorneys in their IP group who are not technically trained.) RFEM attorneys have many years of IP litigation, procurement, registration and licensing experience.

R. Danny Huntington, Member Rothwell, Figg, Ernst & Manbeck, P.C. 607 14th Street, N.W., Suite 800 Washington, D.C. 20005 T 202-783-6040 F 202-783-6031 E dhuntington@rfem.com www.rfem.com

WINNER

US - LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, Sullivan & Cromwell LLP - LEADING DIVERSITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR – LGBT, Sullivan & Cromwell LLP Sullivan & Cromwell LLP has long been committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment, and these principles are firmly embedded in our Firm’s culture. The commitment and engagement of the Firm’s management and leadership are instrumental to our efforts, because they set the tone from the top. We believe that diversity is vital to the Firm’s ability to provide our clients with the highest level of service, and we strive to be at the cutting edge of the industry in terms of the policies we have instituted and the diversity programming we offer. The Firm’s Diversity Committee has the mandate of continually improving the effectiveness of Firm programs to attract, mentor, retain and assist in the advancement of our women and diverse lawyers. The Firm also has a Diversity Management Department (“DMD”) that is charged with developing, implementing and coordinating the Firm’s diversity and inclusion initiatives, events and programs. Realizing the importance of an integrated

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

approach, the Diversity Committee and the DMD work closely with practice group leaders, Firm committees and other internal departments to ensure the Firm achieves its goals. We recognize that our people are our greatest asset and vital to the success of the Firm. We undertake multiple initiatives for the benefit of women and diverse lawyers to enrich their experiences at the Firm. The Women’s Initiative Committee, Asian Associates Network, Network of Black & Latino Lawyers, and LGBT Network offer candid forums for members to discuss work-related matters, mentor junior lawyers and enrich the Firm’s professional development initiatives. Network members also actively participate in our recruitment efforts. We will continue to make diversity and inclusion initiatives among the Firm’s top priorities, and are honored to receive ACQ5’s recognition for our achievements.

Sullivan & Cromwell LLP 125 Broad Street New York, NY 10004-2498 T 212-558-4000 F 212-558-3588 W: www.sullcrom.com

WINNER

MEXICO - REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, VAHG VÁZQUEZ ALDANA, HERNÁNDEZ GÓMEZ & ASSOCIATES Mexico’s regulatory framework supports 100% foreign ownership in most economic activities, including real estate. Mexico’s foreign investment law provides legal guarantees and affords certainty to Mexican and foreign investors.

broadly know as “real estate law”. VAHG has the ability to provide the best integrated service covering all of the specific factors of real estate law, and to provide a team full of experience and expertise in the main real estate areas, covering both federal and state law.

Formal execution of a real estate transaction in Mexico requires several documents which a Notary Public must review and state in the final deed whereby the property title is being transferred. The public deed must be recorded in the public registry of real estate corresponding to the location of the property. Mexican civil law provides the obligation to indemnify buyers of a real estate when seller appears not to have good title to the property, however title insurance can be obtained as additional guarantee.

Vázquez Aldana, Hernández Gómez & Asociados (VAHG) operates in Mexico City and Guadalajara, Mexico, being the largest Mexican member firm in Consulegis, EEIG; servicing clients across the Mexican Territory. VAHG has consolidated more than 50 years of legal practice. VAHG is formed as a result of the prestige, experience, reputation, business approach, high ethical values and professional standards, responsiveness, accountability and trust of its Partners.

When it comes to Real Estate in Mexico, it is important to have detailed knowledge and understanding the local laws, regulations and authorities. It is essential to understand the legal formalities concerning notarial issues and Public Registry law. Environmental and agrarian (ejido) laws are another key factor as well as federal and local tax issues, and there are very special state regulations as to the use of land and development planning etc. All of the above is what we

VAGH is now recognized as a leading legal firm in Real Estate, M&A, Corporate Law and Banking and Securities Law, within its geographic area in Mexico. VAGH represents an invaluable sum of prestige and reputation with strengths and capabilities to conduct international transactions, operating under the highest standards of services and quality, together with a singular personal approach, developing a unique strategic competitive factor and high appreciation of its clients.

OFICINA CD. DE MÉXICO Av. Presidente Mazaryk 111 piso1 Col. Chapultepec Morales México, Distrito Federal México 11560

T 52 (55) 3300-5801 F 52 (55) 3300-5919

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

USA - INSURANCE TRUST TEAM OF THE YEAR -Â WELLS FARGO INSURANCE TRUST SERVICES

Ć&#x2013;1 É&#x201E;( É&#x201E;+*./$)"É&#x201E; *'' / - 'É&#x201E; .4 The Wells Fargo Collateral Trust is an ideal alternative to collateralrelated letters of credit. Establishing a collateral trust allows you to: Ć&#x152;É&#x201E; '$($) / É&#x201E; .É&#x201E; ) É&#x201E;/# É&#x201E; ..* $ / É&#x201E;! . Ć&#x152;É&#x201E; / $)É&#x201E;*2) -.#$+É&#x201E;*!É&#x201E;/# É&#x201E; .. /. Ć&#x152;É&#x201E; +É&#x201E;/# É&#x201E;$)1 ./( )/É&#x201E;$) *( É&#x201E;" ) - / É&#x201E; 4É&#x201E;/# É&#x201E;/-0./ Learn why weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been ranked the global best bank for insurance trust. $.$/É&#x201E;2 ''.! -"*Ć&#x2020; *(Ć¤$).0- ) /-0./Ć&#x2021;É&#x201E;*-É&#x201E; *)/ /Ć&#x2C6; * -/É&#x201E; 0$))Ć&#x2021;É&#x201E; 0.$) ..É&#x201E; 1 '*+( )/É&#x201E; ĹŽ -É&#x201E; ĹžĹźĹżĆ?ĹžĆ&#x2026;ĹżĆ?Ć&#x20AC;ĹżĆ&#x2026;Ć&#x20AC;É&#x201E;Ć&#x152;É&#x201E;-* -/Ć&#x2020;"Ć&#x2020;,0$))Ćł2 ''.! -"*Ć&#x2020; *( $& É&#x201E; (. 4Ć&#x2021;É&#x201E; 0.$) ..É&#x201E; 1 '*+( )/É&#x201E; ĹŽ -É&#x201E; Ć&#x20AC;ĹžĆ Ć?ĹżĹżĆ&#x192;Ć?ĹźĹżĆ&#x201A;Ć&#x20AC;É&#x201E;Ć&#x152;É&#x201E;($ # 'Ć&#x2020;-Ć&#x2020;- (. 4Ćł2 ''.! -"*Ć&#x2020; *( +/$1 É&#x201E;Ć&#x152;É&#x201E; 0 /$ ' É&#x201E;Ć&#x152;É&#x201E; $).0- ) É&#x201E;Ć&#x152;É&#x201E; É&#x201E;Ć&#x152;É&#x201E; É&#x201E; +/$1 É&#x201E;Ć&#x152;É&#x201E; É&#x201E; 0 /$ ' É&#x201E;Ć&#x152;É&#x201E; 0- /4 Note: Wells Fargo Corporate Trust Services does not provide legal or tax accounting services for its customers. Customers should always consult their own professional tax and legal advisors in connection with any effort to qualify a particular transaction for favorable treatment under applicable tax laws and regulations. Wells Fargo Corporate Trust Services is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. and may refer business to its affiliates, including Wells Fargo Bank International and Wells Fargo Securities International Limited. Wells Fargo Bank International is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland and both Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. and Wells Fargo Securities International Limited are authorized and regulated by the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Financial Services Authority under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000. ÂŠ 2013 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. MC-4386

WINNER

USA - EMPLOYMENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR -Â WILLIAM C. MARTUCCI SHOOK HARDY & BACON

Bill Martucci is a national employment litigator and policy strategist for a number of Fortune 500 companies. Chambers USA Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leading Lawyers for Business notes â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bill Martucci garnered overwhelming feedback for â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;his great knowledge in the employment arena, his ability to relate well to clients, and winning personality in the courtroom.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Clients say: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;His trial skills and work ethic are second to none. His vigorous and passionate defense of clients and creative utilization of innovative strategies earns this national practitioner star status.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; He is â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;well informed and well respected,â&#x20AC;&#x2122;

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

and focuses on complex class actions. Bill Martucci is worth having on any dream team for employment litigation and policy issues.â&#x20AC;? Highly regarded as an exceptional trial lawyer, his jury work has been featured in the National Law Journal. A graduate of Georgetown University Law Center where he earned a Master of Laws in labor and employment, he is included in the Best Lawyers in America for employment and business litigation. He teaches multinational business policy and the global workplace at Georgetown.

William C. Martucci Shook Hardy & Bacon 1155 F Street NW Washington, DC 20004 (202) 783-8400 wmartucci@shb.com

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

SINGAPORE - ARBITRATION AND LITIGATION LAW FIRM ON THE YEAR, BRADDELL BROTHERS LLP Braddell Brothers LLP is Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s third-oldest law practice, founded in 1883 by the sons of the first AttorneyGeneral of Singapore, Sir Thomas Braddell. This year marks our 130th anniversary. We are today a boutique Litigation, Arbitration and Corporate / Commercial practice, specialising in civil and commercial litigation, criminal litigation and international arbitrations (e.g. SIAC, ICC, UNCITRAL) in Singapore, Jakarta and the Asia-Pacific region. We are strong in cross-border disputes and work closely with a variety of law practices, worldwide. Our lawyers have considerable experience representing clients in large, high-stakes and difficult cases ordinarily regarded as the private reserve of Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest law firms and specialist dispute resolution practices. They are fiercely committed to the same time-honoured professionalism and tenacity that all our clients, our friends and our colleagues at the Bar have come to expect of Braddell Brothers LLP. Over 2010-2012, we handled no less than six Worldwide Mareva (Freezing) Injunctions, the largest involving a claim PG BQQSPY 64 NJMMJPO 0VS MBSHFTU TJOHMF POHPJOH litigation and arbitration disputes currently involve QPUFOUJBM DMBJNT PG BQQSPY 4 NJMMJPO BOE 64 million respectively.

Our accolades include the following :â&#x20AC;&#x153;Edmund Kronenburg of Braddell Brothers LLP is a top-notch lawyer who comes up with comprehensive and pragmatic advice,â&#x20AC;? sources say. Beside commercial disputes he also has expertise in medical-related mattersâ&#x20AC;? Chambers Asia Pacific 2013 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Braddell Brothers LLP is a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;unique boutiqueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; which â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;punches well above its weightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. It acted ... in a high-profile DBTF UP SFTJTU B 64 N BXBSE &ENVOE ,SPOFOCVSH JT â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;best in classâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, and a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;trusted confidantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.â&#x20AC;? - Legal 500, Asia Pacific 2013 â&#x20AC;&#x153;At â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;innovative, responsiveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; litigation boutique Braddell Brothers LLP, the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;aggressive, articulateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Edmund Kronenburg and Tan Kok Peng handle high-end matrimonial, medical negligence, shareholder disputes and insolvency matters. Anand Nalachandran, former practice head at ATMD Bird & Bird, strengthened the team â&#x20AC;Ś â&#x20AC;&#x153;Braddell Brothers LLPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;good strategist and communicatorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Edmund Kronenburg is advising â&#x20AC;Ś in FOGPSDJOH JUT N *$$ BSCJUSBUJPO BXBSE Ĺ&#x2022; JO 4JOHBQPSF and Jakarta.â&#x20AC;? - Legal 500, Asia Pacific 2012 For more information on our firm, people and practice areas, please visit www.braddellbrothers.com.

INDIA

BRADDELL BROTHERS LLP One Raffles Place #34-03, Singapore 048616 T +65 6499 9490 F +65 6499 9499 www.braddellbrothers.com

Enquiries: Edmund Kronenburg, FCIArb, FSIArb Managing Partner ej.kronenburg@braddellbrothers.com

WINNER

- CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR -Â Desai & Diwanji The Firm Founded on 1 April 1935, Desai & Diwanji is one of Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sleading law firms, helping clients achieve their goals by combining the highest global standards with local expertise. With offices in Mumbai, New Delhi and Gurgaon, Desai & Diwanji is also amongst Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest law firms. The firm focuses on the core areas of commercial activity: corporate and M&A; capital markets; banking, finance & insurance; project finance; energy, natural resources and infrastructure; aviation; admiralty & maritime; technology, media & telecommunications; life sciences & pharmaceuticals; outsourcing; real estate & construction; litigation & dispute resolution. We also have cross-practice groups formed to respond to the needs of our clients and the market and which comprise lawyers drawn together from a range of our main practice areas, to offer legal advice covering sector-wide issues. Practice Areas Desai & Diwanji provides flexible support for day-to-day business needs as well as for specific transactions. With specialised knowledge of both the legal framework as well as the specific business requirements of various industry sectors, our team of lawyers work on some

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

of the most challenging, complex and stimulating transactions in India. The firm is structured around the following practice areas: Ĺ&#x201D; .FSHFST "DRVJTJUJPOT BOE 1SJWBUF &RVJUZ Ĺ&#x201D; &RVJUZ $BQJUBM .BSLFUT Ĺ&#x201D; #BOLJOH 'JOBODF BOE *OTVSBODF Ĺ&#x201D; 1SPKFDU 'JOBODF Ĺ&#x201D; &OFSHZ /BUVSBM 3FTPVSDFT BOE *OGSBTUSVDUVSF Ĺ&#x201D; "WJBUJPO Ĺ&#x201D; "ENJSBMUZ BOE .BSJUJNF Ĺ&#x201D; 5FDIOPMPHZ .FEJB BOE 5FMFDPNNVOJDBUJPOT Ĺ&#x201D; -JGF 4DJFODFT BOE 1IBSNBDFVUJDBMT Ĺ&#x201D; &NQMPZNFOU &NQMPZFF #FOFĹŁUT BOE &YFDVUJWF Compensation Ĺ&#x201D; 0VUTPVSDJOH Ĺ&#x201D; 3FBM &TUBUF BOE $POTUSVDUJPO Ĺ&#x201D; -JUJHBUJPO %JTQVUF 3FTPMVUJPO BOE *OTPMWFODZ

Vishwang Y Desai

Our Clients

Desai & Diwanji

We are privileged to work with an impressive array of highcalibre corporations, financial institutions, funds, and governments. Our continuing success relies on our building and sustaining the trust of our clients. We aim to build longterm relationships with them â&#x20AC;&#x201C; relationships that over time take the form of a real partnership.

Lentin Chambers Dalal Street Mumbai-400001 E vydesai@desaidiwanji.com T +91-22-39841000 T +91-22-22658245

WINNER

TAIWAN - IP LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, DEEP & FAR ATTORNEYS AT LAW

ৡࢋ᫨Ĺ៮ࢋ棻ċひƱࣦĄ尢ࣦċⷚ 13th Fl., 27 Sec. 3, Chung San N. Rd., Taipei 104, Taiwan, R.O.C. T: 886-2-25856688 F: 886-2-25989900/25978989 Email: email@deepnfar.com.tw www.deepnfar.com.tw

⥷⇁⤽቎㹘㲫ⅾ㲫䗉뺕Зᶽὁㅔ侇㣣䉍甠⏎뺕杗ȵ䆺⏁ⅾ䔕·ὁş⽮䈭뺔 We are just like an uncut jade or gem mine. If you use us, you shall soon feel like discovering treasures and/or justifying your rights. ㏍消卨⅍뺓㏔आ䏣攽唛䯜泊ď⃽뺕ዠ憧⴫冼ş勂뺔 Deep In Mind, Knowledge and Efforts, Far Goal In.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

INDIA

WINNER

- HIGH LEVEL M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - Desai & Diwanji The Firm Founded on 1 April 1935, Desai & Diwanji is one of India’sleading law firms, helping clients achieve their goals by combining the highest global standards with local expertise. With offices in Mumbai, New Delhi and Gurgaon, Desai & Diwanji is also amongst India’s largest law firms. The firm focuses on the core areas of commercial activity: corporate and M&A; capital markets; banking, finance & insurance; project finance; energy, natural resources and infrastructure; aviation; admiralty & maritime; technology, media & telecommunications; life sciences & pharmaceuticals; outsourcing; real estate & construction; litigation & dispute resolution. We also have cross-practice groups formed to respond to the needs of our clients and the market and which comprise lawyers drawn together from a range of our main practice areas, to offer legal advice covering sector-wide issues. Practice Areas Desai & Diwanji provides flexible support for day-to-day business needs as well as for specific transactions. With specialised knowledge of both the legal framework as well as the specific business requirements of various industry sectors, our team of lawyers work on some

of the most challenging, complex and stimulating transactions in India. The firm is structured around the following practice areas: Ŕ .FSHFST "DRVJTJUJPOT BOE 1SJWBUF &RVJUZ Ŕ &RVJUZ $BQJUBM .BSLFUT Ŕ #BOLJOH 'JOBODF BOE *OTVSBODF Ŕ 1SPKFDU 'JOBODF Ŕ &OFSHZ /BUVSBM 3FTPVSDFT BOE *OGSBTUSVDUVSF Ŕ "WJBUJPO Ŕ "ENJSBMUZ BOE .BSJUJNF Ŕ 5FDIOPMPHZ .FEJB BOE 5FMFDPNNVOJDBUJPOT Ŕ -JGF 4DJFODFT BOE 1IBSNBDFVUJDBMT Ŕ &NQMPZNFOU &NQMPZFF #FOFţUT BOE &YFDVUJWF Compensation Ŕ 0VUTPVSDJOH Ŕ 3FBM &TUBUF BOE $POTUSVDUJPO Ŕ -JUJHBUJPO %JTQVUF 3FTPMVUJPO BOE *OTPMWFODZ

Vishwang Y Desai

Our Clients

Desai & Diwanji

We are privileged to work with an impressive array of highcalibre corporations, financial institutions, funds, and governments. Our continuing success relies on our building and sustaining the trust of our clients. We aim to build longterm relationships with them – relationships that over time take the form of a real partnership.

Lentin Chambers Dalal Street Mumbai-400001

INDIA

E vydesai@desaidiwanji.com T +91-22-39841000 T +91-22-22658245

WINNER

- INFRASTRUCTURE FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - Desai & Diwanji The Firm Founded on 1 April 1935, Desai & Diwanji is one of India’sleading law firms, helping clients achieve their goals by combining the highest global standards with local expertise. With offices in Mumbai, New Delhi and Gurgaon, Desai & Diwanji is also amongst India’s largest law firms. The firm focuses on the core areas of commercial activity: corporate and M&A; capital markets; banking, finance & insurance; project finance; energy, natural resources and infrastructure; aviation; admiralty & maritime; technology, media & telecommunications; life sciences & pharmaceuticals; outsourcing; real estate & construction; litigation & dispute resolution. We also have cross-practice groups formed to respond to the needs of our clients and the market and which comprise lawyers drawn together from a range of our main practice areas, to offer legal advice covering sector-wide issues. Practice Areas Desai & Diwanji provides flexible support for day-to-day business needs as well as for specific transactions. With specialised knowledge of both the legal framework as well as the specific business requirements of various industry sectors, our team of lawyers work on some

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

of the most challenging, complex and stimulating transactions in India. The firm is structured around the following practice areas: Ŕ .FSHFST BOE "DRVJTJUJPOT Ŕ &RVJUZ $BQJUBM .BSLFUT Ŕ #BOLJOH 'JOBODF BOE *OTVSBODF Ŕ 1SPKFDU 'JOBODF Ŕ &OFSHZ /BUVSBM 3FTPVSDFT BOE *OGSBTUSVDUVSF Ŕ "WJBUJPO Ŕ "ENJSBMUZ BOE .BSJUJNF Ŕ 5FDIOPMPHZ .FEJB BOE 5FMFDPNNVOJDBUJPOT Ŕ -JGF 4DJFODFT BOE 1IBSNBDFVUJDBMT Ŕ &NQMPZNFOU &NQMPZFF #FOFţUT BOE &YFDVUJWF Compensation Ŕ 0VUTPVSDJOH Ŕ 3FBM &TUBUF BOE $POTUSVDUJPO Ŕ -JUJHBUJPO %JTQVUF 3FTPMVUJPO BOE *OTPMWFODZ

Vishwang Y Desai

Our Clients

Desai & Diwanji

We are privileged to work with an impressive array of highcalibre corporations, financial institutions, funds, and governments. Our continuing success relies on our building and sustaining the trust of our clients. We aim to build longterm relationships with them – relationships that over time take the form of a real partnership.

Lentin Chambers Dalal Street Mumbai-400001 E vydesai@desaidiwanji.com T +91-22-39841000 T +91-22-22658245

INDIA

WINNER

- PROJECT FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - Desai & Diwanji The Firm Founded on 1 April 1935, Desai & Diwanji is one of India’sleading law firms, helping clients achieve their goals by combining the highest global standards with local expertise. With offices in Mumbai, New Delhi and Gurgaon, Desai & Diwanji is also amongst India’s largest law firms. The firm focuses on the core areas of commercial activity: corporate and M&A; capital markets; banking, finance & insurance; project finance; energy, natural resources and infrastructure; aviation; admiralty & maritime; technology, media & telecommunications; life sciences & pharmaceuticals; outsourcing; real estate & construction; litigation & dispute resolution. We also have cross-practice groups formed to respond to the needs of our clients and the market and which comprise lawyers drawn together from a range of our main practice areas, to offer legal advice covering sector-wide issues. Practice Areas Desai & Diwanji provides flexible support for day-to-day business needs as well as for specific transactions. With specialised knowledge of both the legal framework as well as the specific business requirements of various industry sectors, our team of lawyers work on some

Vishwang Y Desai

Our Clients

Desai & Diwanji

We are privileged to work with an impressive array of highcalibre corporations, financial institutions, funds, and governments. Our continuing success relies on our building and sustaining the trust of our clients. We aim to build longterm relationships with them – relationships that over time take the form of a real partnership.

Lentin Chambers Dalal Street Mumbai-400001 E vydesai@desaidiwanji.com T +91-22-39841000 T +91-22-22658245

WINNER

AUSTRALIA - EMPLOYMENT FIRM OF THE YEAR - FCB GROUP FCB Group (FCB) is Australia’s leading workplace relations

offices. We advise leading organisations from all major Austra-

specialist. We deliver sophisticated strategic and advisory services

lian industries—from start-ups to large enterprises, from asso-

across workplace law, human resources (HR) and technology.

ciations to government agencies and global businesses which

We partner with our clients to maximise the contribution their

collectively employ more than 750,000 individuals.

people make to their business. Our point of difference is our mul-

We place the highest value on understanding our clients’ busi-

tidisciplinary approach; we offer specific products and services,

nesses and aligning our people with our clients’ business goals

together with bespoke, integrated solutions across workplace law,

and creating value for our clients in everything we do.

HR and state of the art technology. We do this by means of our key businesses, FCB Workplace Law, FCB HR, FCB Technology, and our holistic service offering, FCB Smart Solutions. We are the only workplace relations firm in Australia with two Accredited Employment and Industrial Law Specialists in our team and we have the honour of being the only Australian representative in the Worklaw Network, a global group of specialist workplace relations law firms focussed exclusively on labour and employment law. Founded in 1993, we have a team of 60 staff, including nine Partners and 35 professionals based in our Sydney and Melbourne

FCB Group Sydney Level 11, 83 Mount Street North Sydney NSW 2060 Phone +61 2 9922 5188 Fax +61 2 9955 9575 FCB Group Melbourne Level 18, 607 Bourke Street Melbourne VIC 3000 Phone: +61 3 9098 9400 Fax: +61 3 9098 9499

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

CHINA - CORPORATE IMMIGRATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - FRAGOMEN Fragomen: Global Excellence That Continues to Break New Ground Fragomen is the world’s largest immigration specialist firm. Since our firm was established in the United States in 1951, we have steadily grown into a global network of almost 2,000 employees worldwide. We are honored to be recognized as the leader in our field by our clients and professional peers, as well as by reputable publications and industry journals. We have 39 offices in 15 countries across the globe, and offer immigration counselling and services in more than 170 countries. We continue to grow as client needs dictate. Fragomen is exclusively focused on immigration services. We provide clients with high-quality, innovative, sustainable and cost-effective worldwide immigration services, which have several separate but related elements. Fragomen does not simply process work visas and work permits. We have built our firm specifically to support all aspects of global immigration services, ensuring that we are the knowledge leaders in this highly specialized area of practice. Our cutting-edge, proprietary technology solutions – which include a web-based case management system, immigration home page and visa assessment tool – enable us to manage our clients’ worldwide needs on a compliant basis. These state of the art client solutions leverage Fragomen’s intellectual capital across the globe and are relied on by our large number and diverse range of client companies. Even as our practice expands internationally, we work with each client individually to understand their business and immigration priorities, and to deliver solutions tailored to their evolving business needs and the often challenging local immigration requirements. Fragomen in China and the Asia Pacific Region Over the last decade, Fragomen has grown exponentially to become the largest global immigration specialist also in the Asia Pacific region. We have 15 offices spread across Australia, China, Hong Kong, India, New Zealand and Singapore. Our Asia Pacific Coordination Centre based in Singapore delivers seamless services into Asia Pacific countries where we currently do not have an office, partnering with best-in-class local immigration experts qualified by us. Our legal professionals and immigration consultants in the region are very international and come from all around the world. No other provider in the region can match our ability to deliver on-the-ground expertise mentored by a tradition of global excellence.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

We have a significant presence in China. Our offices in Shanghai, Beijing and Guangzhou are able to service the whole of mainland China. Our corporate clients in China are drawn from a wide selection of industries, including financial services, pharmaceutical and health care, information and communication technology, industrial and manufacturing, energy, professional services, advertising and communications, insurance, retail and management consultancy. Our case teams are hand-picked and possess in-depth understanding of the issues faced by each industry and, as such, take a proactive approach in advising on how immigration can be utilized as a business advantage. Our Fragomen China immigration team consists of leading experts in the increasingly complex area of Chinese immigration. Our highly skilled and experienced technical experts specialize in assisting multinational corporations, financial institutions and other global employers with employment-based immigration and investor visas. We also provide advice on immigration-related compliance and strategies for the transfer of expatriate workforces into China and throughout the country. We are able to provide a comprehensive range of immigration services in China, including: Ŕ "EWJTJOH PO SFDSVJUNFOU QPMJDZ BOE QSPDFEVSF Ŕ # VTJOFTT JOWFTUPST IJHIMZ TLJMMFE QSPGFTTJPOBMT BOE sole representatives Ŕ 1FSNBOFOU SFTJEFODZ Ŕ 0VUCPVOE CVTJOFTT USBWFMFS TFSWJDFT Our China office is supported by our colleagues in Fragomen offices around the world who provide expert assistance in filing of applications at relevant diplomatic posts abroad, especially in Hong Kong where we also have a China visa practice in our Hong Kong office. This ensures end-to-end service. Our office maintains close working relationships with China’s immigration officers, helping us form the best strategy when dealing with complex and unusual circumstances, as well as anticipate and address the implications of changes to the immigration process. If you would like to know more about Fragomen and our China practice, please contact: Mark Buchanan (Partner) at +8621 61829998 / mbuchanan@fragomen.com. Becky Xia (Partner) at +86 21 6182 9960 / bxia@fragomen.com

BEIJING Unit E2, 20/F, Tower B, Gateway Plaza No. 18 Xiaguangli, Dongsanhuan North Road, Chaoyang District Beijing, 100027 China T +86 010 5632 2300 F +86 010 5632 2340 E beijinginfo@fragomen.com

GUANGZHOU Tower A, 23/F Center Plaza 161 Lin He Xi Road Tian He District Guangzhou, 510620 China T +86 20 2885 8287 F +86 20 2885 8222 E guangzhouinfo@fragomen.com

SHANGHAI Suite 1408, Level 14 Jin Mao Tower 88 Century Avenue Pudong New District Shanghai, 200120 China T +86 21 6182 9988 F +86 21 6182 9980 E shanghaiinfo@fragomen.com

CHINA

WINNER

- LEADING CLIENT CARE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, HFG LAW FIRM & IP PRACTICE - LEADING IP LAWYER OF THE YEAR, Fabio Giacopello, HFG LAW FIRM & IP PRACTICE

Founded in 2003, HFG counts 88 professionals distributed in Shanghai, Beijing and Guangzhou. HFG is recommended practice by Legal 500 and by Managing IP. HFG’s full service IP practice covers litigation, anti-counterfeiting, trademark filing and administrative disputes, patent filing and prosecution, copyright, and media. Going beyond traditional areas of practice, HFG integrated commercial and corporate law services providing one stop station to companies whose intangible assets out value the tangibles. We specifically focus on food and pharma regulatory, retail and e-commerce, IT and telecom, licensing and monetization of patented technology. HFG provides both IP and corporate services to several Fortune 500 public and private multinational companies and Small-Medium Enterprises. HFG in China consists of three entities authorized by Ministry of Justice, recorded with China Trademark Office and licensed under the State of Intellectual Property Office for all patent related practice. We are proud of the highest standard and quality of service rendered with uncompromised understanding of the business interests of clients from all over the world. Collectively our firm commands a profound and diversified knowledge base and multi-lingual communication

capability, and represents the clients at various levels before all the state-level agencies and administrative and judicial authorities. Mr. Fabio Giacopello, is partner at HFG from 2010. Admitted to Italian Bar, Fabio has extensive experience with IP in China and in Europe. He is winner of “ILO - Client Choice Award 2013” – Trademark Category, China; recommended lawyer by Legal 500 and mentioned by MIP’s IP Handbook as one of the outstanding IP professional in China. Fabio is member of Anti-Counterfeiting Committee of INTA (China Sub-Committee) and has been recently appointed Arbitrator at Shanghai International Arbitration Center (SHIAC); speaker at several seminars organized by the EU-China SMEs Helpdesk, he often cooperates with education institutions and associations for giving lectures about Chinese IP System and/or European IP System (INTA, EIPM, China-Italy Chamber of Commerce, Italian Chamber of Commerce in HongKong, etc.); author of several articles published by International and local publishing houses such as Word Intellectual Property Review, China Business Law Journal, Intellectual Property Magazine.

HFG Law Firm 14/F, Huaqi Building, No. 969 Wuding Road, Jing’An District, 200040 Shanghai T +86 (21) 5213 5500 F +86 (21) 5213 0895 E hfg_china@hfgip.com www.hfgip.com

WINNER

CHINA - ENERGY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, HUNTON & WILLIAMS LLP

Manuel Maisog is a partner at Hunton & Williams LLP in its Beijing office. He has had key roles in many prominent energy transactions, both in China and elsewhere in the Asia-Pacific region. As representative examples, in China, Mr. Maisog represented a major Southeast Asia-based multinational energy concern in its acquisition of interests in two coal mining joint ventures in Shanxi, and in its acquisition of a portfolio of foreign-invested enterprises operating power and steam generating assets in Northeast China. He has also represented project sponsors in the negotiation and drafting of turnkey engineering, procurement and construction contracts for multiple electricity generation facilities in Taiwan, and represented a Taiwanese potential acquiror in its evaluation of a preliminary equity investment in a coalfired power plant in Inner Mongolia. Elsewhere in the Asia-Pacific region, Mr. Maisog represented the project acquiror in the privatization of the largest and most advanced electricity generating facility in Thailand, and worked in the structuring and drafting of the concession agreement and ancillary contracts for the privatization of the national electricity

transmission system in the Philippines. He represented a major independent power producer in Thailand in the refinancing of its project financing on a corporate financing basis, and represented the foreign equity participant in its extension of a bridge loan facility to an electricity generating subsidiary in Thailand. He also advised a coal mining project company in the negotiation of a long-term coal supply agreement for an electricity generating facility in Mindanao, and advised on the negotiation of the proposed acquisition of a hydroelectric facility in Laos. Mr. Maisog also has experience in dispute resolution in the energy sector. He represented the acquiror of an interest in an energy project in a complex international arbitration proceeding, and represented both public utility and private sector clients in the negotiation, drafting and execution of settlement agreements for the resolution of disputes with construction contractors in Thailand.

Manuel Maisog Partner / Chief Representative

Mr. Maisog earned an undergraduate degree at Princeton University and a masters degree at Harvard. He studied law at Harvard Law School and Mandarin and Classical Chinese at the Stanford Center in Taiwan.

M +86 139 1010 9142

Hunton & Williams LLP 517-520 South Office Tower Beijing Kerry Center No. 1 Guanghua Road Beijing 100020 China T +86 10 5863 7500 F +86 10 5863 7591 E bmaisog@hunton.com www.hunton.com

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

INDONESIA

- DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, IGNATIUS ANDY LAW OFFICES

WINNER

SOUTH KOREA - LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR, IK HYUN SEO, PARTNER - CHO & PARTNERS

Ik-Hyun Seo is experienced in both US and Korean IP litigation and prosecution matters, and represents a broad range of clients – from high-tech companies to luxury and fashion companies. His detailed knowledge of the similarities and differences between these two jurisdictions has been a valuable asset when advising foreign clients on effective IP management and enforcement strategies in Korea. Mr Seo is recognised as a leading individual in the IP sector by Asia-Pacific

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

Legal 500 (2001-2013), a leading lawyer by Asia Law & Practice (2004-2013) and a highly recommended attorney for intellectual property by PLC (20052012). He is a member of the World Intellectual Property Organisation Arbitration and Mediation Centre’s Domain Name Panel, and also serves on the editorial board of Managing Intellectual Property. In addition, he serves as regional counsel for a number of multinational clients with IP programmes in Asia.

Ik-Hyun Seo - Partner E ihseo@cholaw.com Cho & Partners 6th and 13th floors, Ann Jay Tower 718-2 Yeoksam-dong, Kangnam-Ku Seoul 135-080, Korea T +822 6207 6800 F +822 6207 6801 www.cholaw.com

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

KOREA - SHIPPING & TRANSPORT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, JIPYONG JISUNG The shipping & maritime team of Jipyong Jisung have represented Korean domestic and international clients from the major sectors of the industry including various shipowners, P&I Clubs, insurers, aviators, shipbuilders, ship-financers and traders, and offered a wide range of high-quality, efficient and professional legal service in a variety of complex shipping, casualty, aviation, insurance, international trade, shipbuilding and ship finance issues. This shipping & maritime team was inaugurated when Mr Choon-Won Lee joined Jipyong Jisung in October 2008. Mr Lee, with 20 years experience in this special area, is most well-noted as being a leading maritime lawyer representing the new generation of Korean shipping society. One of the noteworthy, major representative cases handled by the shipping & maritime team of Jipyong Jisung is the Hyundai Fortune case, which is believed to be one of the largest casualty cases in the shipping world. In this matter, Jipyong Jisung has successfully defended and dismissed cargo claims of USD 500 million acting for the shipowners, and based thereon induced the conclusion of various disputes in the potential claim amount of about USD 1.5 billion.

The team’s more recent focus has been on actively engaging in charterparty disputes and in issues related to rehabilitation and bankruptcy of shipping companies, shipbuilders as the international shipping market began to suffer from depression from the late 2008. The shipping & maritime team of Jipyong Jisung prides in and is renowned for providing best solution for the clients, with professionalism and devotion, in any event and in every aspect. Appraisals from the clients include, “we recommend Jiypong Jisung without the slightest reservation”, “on every single occasion Jipyong Jisung has been very attentive to our issues and tried their best to find an ideal solution to our problem”, and “Jipyong Jisung’s research is very thorough and their vast experience enables them to provide advice that caters to the specifics of our request, all the time without losing sight of big picture”. It is not a surprise that the long-standing clients of Jipyong Jisung continue to turn to them for legal services and a growing number of new clients are seeking their advice.

Choon-Won LEE Jipyong Jisung 10th Floor, KT&G Seodaemun Tower, 60 Chungjeong-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul , 120-020, Korea T (82-2) 6200-1910 F (82-2) 6200-0802 E cwlee@jipyong.com www.jipyong.com

WINNER

INDIA - PROJECT FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - KHAITAN SUD & PARTNERS The Firm: Khaitan Sud & Partners, Solicitors & Advocates, is a dynamic and fast growing focused law firm in India which provides a wide range of specialist legal services to both its domestic and international clients. Practice Areas: We have a team comprising of 12 partners with considerable experience in rendition of commercial and corporate advice, project finance advisory and documentation services and also act on dispute resolution matters. For our

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

project finance, infrastructure and banking practice, we offer expertise in drafting and reviewing of financing and security documentation such as facility agreements, sponsor funding documentation and typical security/ collateral documentation pertaining to hypothecation, assignment, mortgage, guarantee and indemnity agreements. We also provide services relating to banking transactions encompassing advisory and documentation services with respect to corporate loans, retail loans and working capital financing.

KHAITAN SUD & PARTNERS T +91 11 41552824-25 F +91 (11) 41510266 E delhi@kspartners.co.in tanuj.sud@kspartners.co.in www.kspartners.co.in

WINNER

INDONESIA - ARBITRATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, LUBIS GANIE SUROWIDJOJO Lubis Ganie Surowidjojo (LGS) was founded in 1985 by Timbul Thomas Lubis, Mohamed Idwan (‘Kiki’) Ganie and Arief Tarunakarya Surowidjojo. In more than 28 years of service, LGS has secured a position as the premier Indonesian corporate transaction and commercial litigation law firm. LGS has over a hundred lawyers and experience representing a diverse range of clients, including domestic and multinational corporations, public and private companies, Government instrumentalities and State Owned Enterprises. The founders, partners and lawyers pride themselves on working closely with clients to understand their problems, determine their needs, and arrive at practical solutions that are both cost-effective and viable over the long term.

Representative Clients Adaro Indonesia; American Bureau of Shipping; Astra International; Astratel Nusantara; Bank Mandiri; Charoen Pokphand Indonesia; DBS Bank Ltd; Goldman Sachs; Government of the Republic of Indonesia; Hitachi; Hutchison (Hong Kong); Indonesia Infrastructure Guarantee Fund; Japan Tobacco International Indonesia; Krakatau Steel; Liga Primer Indonesia (LPI); Medco Energi International; Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Indonesia; Mitsui & Co., Ltd;

Mitsui Banking Corporation; Pamapersada Nusantara; Sampoerna Strategic; Sime Darby (Malaysia); Simpson, Spence & Young (SSY); Standard Chartered Bank; Sumitomo; Temasek Holdings (Private) Limited; and Unilever Indonesia.

ISO Certification LGS has obtained certifications of ISO 9001:2008 for Quality Management systems and ISO 14001:2004 for Environmental Management systems to ensure that all aspects of the firm’s operations and the quality of services are on par with the most well managed companies and organizations in the world.

Arbitration One of our unique selling points is the combination of our long-standing commercial law practice and our premier litigation department that has extensive experience in dealing with commercial disputes in the context of arbitration and alternative dispute resolution as well as litigation in the Indonesian courts and tribunals, such as the Indonesian antitrust body (KPPU). Our Managing Partner, Dr. Ganie, has more than 30 years of legal experience, and specializes in commercial transactions and commercial litigation, including alternative dispute resolution and has acted as an expert in a number court and arbitration proceedings.

Dr. Mohamed Idwan (‘Kiki’) Ganie Managing Partner Lubis Ganie Surowidjojo Menara Imperium 30th Floor Jl. H. R. Rasuna Said Kav. 1 Kuningan Jakarta 12980, Indonesia T +62 21 831-5005, 831-5025 F +62 21 831-5015, 831-5018 E ganie@lgslaw.co.id www.lgsonline.com

WINNER

INDONESIA - CAPITAL MARKETS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, LUBIS, GANIE & SUROWIDJOJO Lubis Ganie Surowidjojo (LGS) was founded in 1985 by Timbul Thomas Lubis, Mohamed Idwan (‘Kiki’) Ganie and Arief Tarunakarya Surowidjojo. In more than 28 years of service, LGS has secured a position as the premier Indonesian corporate transaction and commercial litigation law firm. LGS has over a hundred lawyers and experience representing a diverse range of clients, including domestic and multinational corporations, public and private companies, Government instrumentalities and State Owned Enterprises. The founders, partners and lawyers pride themselves on working closely with clients to understand their problems, determine their needs, and arrive at practical solutions that are both cost-effective and viable over the long term.

Capital Markets LGS is known as one of the Indonesian leading law firms in the capital markets area. It has provided legal services to its clients (issuers and underwriters) in more than one hundred capital markets transaction projects including Initial Public Offerings (IPOs), bonds issues, rights issues, mergers and acquisitions of public companies, investment and divestment of public companies, tender offers, conflict of interest transactions, any numerous other matters. We approach our clients’ assignments with a pragmatic view that is driven by a deep understanding of their business needs and of the surrounding practicalities of the legal and business landscape that they operate in.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

INDONESIA - COMMERCIAL LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, LUBIS GANIE SUROWIDJOJO Lubis Ganie Surowidjojo (LGS) was founded in 1985 by Timbul Thomas Lubis, Mohamed Idwan (‘Kiki’) Ganie and Arief Tarunakarya Surowidjojo. In more than 28 years of service, LGS has secured a position as the premier Indonesian corporate transaction and commercial litigation law firm. LGS has over a hundred lawyers and experience representing a diverse range of clients, including domestic and multinational corporations, public and private companies, Government instrumentalities and State Owned Enterprises. The founders, partners and lawyers pride themselves on working closely with clients to understand their problems, determine their needs, and arrive at practical solutions that are both cost-effective and viable over the long term.

Litigation We strive to understand a client’s needs and the legal complexities faced by them in Indonesia’s highly dynamic legal and business landscape, translate this into a solution, and then see the successful outcome. In litigation, due to the differences of legal systems and legal realities, we have a close and intense working relationship with our foreign clients to ensure that they understand any legal impact and options available under Indonesian law (which might not be similar to the impact and options in their own jurisdictions in the same situation), so that they can have the available results and options commercially “translated” and realistically analyzed at each stage of the proceedings.

WINNER

INDONESIA - INSOLVENCY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, LUBIS GANIE SUROWIDJOJO Lubis Ganie Surowidjojo (LGS) was founded in 1985 by Timbul Thomas Lubis, Mohamed Idwan (‘Kiki’) Ganie and Arief Tarunakarya Surowidjojo. In more than 28 years of service, LGS has secured a position as the premier Indonesian corporate transaction and commercial litigation law firm. LGS has over a hundred lawyers and experience representing a diverse range of clients, including domestic and multinational corporations, public and private companies, Government instrumentalities and State Owned Enterprises. The founders, partners and lawyers pride themselves on working closely with clients to understand their problems, determine their needs, and arrive at practical solutions that are both cost-effective and viable over the long term.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

Spence & Young (SSY); Standard Chartered Bank; Sumitomo; Temasek Holdings (Private) Limited; and Unilever Indonesia.

Insolvency LGS has a widely acclaimed Indonesian insolvency practice and we are particularly proud to underline our role in the restructuring process of Indonesian banks. Since the aftermath of the economic crisis, LGS has become one of the leading law firms involved in the rebuilding of the economy its role as the primary counsel to the Indonesian Bank Restructuring Agency (IBRA). LGS has been actively involved in the process of suspension, take over and due diligence of the troubled banks. It has also played vital roles in the drafting of banking law amendments, Indonesian banks re-capitalization, settlement arrangements with the former owners, due diligence and negotiations in debt restructuring under IBRA supervision, as well as implementing other IBRA assignments.

WINNER

KAZAKHSTAN - INDEPENDENT RESTRUCTURING ADVISOR OF THE YEAR, M.FAVALE-ÂTARTER, LLC M.Favale-Tarter, LLC was founded in 2009 and has been actively engaged providing strategic advice to select clients. As part of the value-added service, Ms Favale draws from over 20 years finance experience to create unbiased, conflict-free, custom solutions that successfully challenge established frame-works whilst adhering toBest Practices. Ms Favaleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique and well-rounded finance experience allows her to understand and influence the full value-chain, and devise and execute on creative strategies. Effectively, Ms Favale controls the process for the benefit of her clients, thus eliminating conflicts of interest. Ms Favale advises and acts for private entities and Governments and, when appropriate, partners-whilst retaining control of execution- with legal, accounting, and investment banking firms for execution. Ms Favale created and implemented the successful Kazakhstan banking sector restructuring, which became known as the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;BurdenSharingâ&#x20AC;? framework, whereby BTA Bank is the first successful largescale bail-in and has become an international benchmark. In 2010, Euromoney Magazine ranked M.Favale-Tarter, LLC alongside UBS and Lazard with the CEE Deal of the Year-BTA Bank restructuring. In 2013, Finance Monthly and Lawyer Monthly acknowledged the leading role M.Favale-Tarter, LLC played in the 2nd BTA Restructuring. Ms Favale became Senior Advisor to the Prime Minister of Kazakhstan to ensure a successful execution of the restructuring bank framework. She continues to act as a Senior Advisor for matters related to the financial sector including debt restructuring, and other areas such as privatization and mergers & acquisitions. In this role, Ms Favale interacts with government officials, government related entities, investment banks and the private sector on behalf of Kazakhstan. In addition to creating the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Burden Sharingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; bank restructuring framework, Ms Favale also devised and implemented the Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s IPO programme on behalf of the Prime Minister of Kazakhstan. This programme has been implemented and deemed a success. The goal of the programme was to create a wealth conduit for the population

of Kazakhstan, rather than short-term gains, thus promoting the development of a middle-class, and the development of a domestic capital market, to further spur and diversify the domestic economy and limit foreign capital dependence. Before her advisory role, Ms Favale was a portfolio manager and senior member of the Advent Capital investment team and a senior portfolio man-ager at Brevan Howard. At UBS, Ms Favale was a Managing Director, Head of CEEMEA and LATAM corporate bond research in UBSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s global credit fixed-income research group, where she was ranked The Outstanding Analyst of the Year by Institutional Investor Magazine for Emerging Markets Corporates (April 2006). She was also a senior member of UBSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Credit Commit-tee and Global Emerging Market Steering Committee. Prior to UBS, Ms Favale covered the US High Yield market and began her career in Mergers & Acquisitions at Bankerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Trust. Ĺ&#x201D; Transaction Summary Ĺ&#x201D; 3FTtructuring (Strategy and Implementation) - BTA Bank restructuring 2010 & 2012 (CEE Deal of the Year---BTA Bank restructuring (February 2010); Euromoney Magazine - Alliance Bank restructuring 2010 - Temir Bank restructuring 2010 - Astana Finance 2011-2012 - BTA Bank 2nd restructuring 2012 Ĺ&#x201D; 1SJWBUJ[BUJPO 4USBUFHZ BOE *NQMFNFOUBUJPO

- Privatization Programme: Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s IPO â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Kazakhstan 2011 Ĺ&#x201D; "DRVJTJUJPO "EWJTPSZ

- Mining Asset in Central Asia 2012 Ĺ&#x201D; "TTFU 4BMF - Iron Ore Mining Asset in Brazil (On Going mandate) Ĺ&#x201D; 'VOESBJTJOH - Mandated to raise funds for Private Equity and Hedge Funds (On Going Mandate) Ĺ&#x201D; "EWJTPSZ - Advisor to Global Investment Banks (On Going Mandate)

Marcia Elizabeth Christian Favale CEO/President/Founder M.Favale-Tarter, LLC T +1 631 902 8848 E mfavale-tarter@mfavale-tarter.net www.mfavale-tarter.net

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ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

AUSTRALIA - INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, NICHOLAS WESTON LAWYERS & TRADE MARKS ATTORNEYS -Â NICHOLAS WESTON Nick Weston, a partner at intellectual property law firm Nicholas Weston Lawyers & Trade Marks Attorneys, is consistently ranked among Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most effective intellectual property lawyers. Nicholas Weston Lawyers & Trade Marks Attorneys is a private firm of top brand and technology lawyers in Australia. He has more than 15 years of experience in providing strategic advice and litigating copyright, trade secret, trade marks, trade practices and contract matters for Australian and international small cap and private companies in the film, music, advertising, sport, FMCG, publishing, logistics, retail, games, digital business, biotechnology and technology sectors. Representative clients include Electronic Arts, U. S. Department of Defense, Camera House, Independent Sports and Renegade Films. Mr. Weston has a compelling record of obtaining litigation results in a wide range of commercial cases in Federal and State courts across Australia. Known for his creativity, superior technical expertise, professionalism and integrity, Mr. Weston has earned a high level of respect among other leading lawyers for his abilities. In 2012, he has provided advice and worked behind the scenes for a number of other IP law firms. As a World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Domain Name Panelist, Mr Weston has remained at the forefront of global domain name strategy and enforcement and new developments in domain name dispute resolution, including the latest changes in generic top-level domains (gTLDs). Decisionmaking authority under the Uniform Domain Name Dispute Resolution Policy and Rules (UDRP) lies exclusively with the appointed Panels. In 2012, Mr Weston has served as sole Panelist in WIPO domain name cases involving brands including Dolce & Gabbana, Enterprise car hire, BDO, Mitsubishi, PGA Tour, Banamex and Van Houten. Two of Mr. Westonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s decisions were included in the recent WIPO Overview of WIPO Panel Views on Selected UDRP Questions, Second Edition (â&#x20AC;&#x153;WIPO Overview 2.0â&#x20AC;?) to assist other Panels on certain questions that commonly arise in proceedings under the UDRP. Mr. Westonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trade marks practice gives clients direct access to their trade marks and domain name portfolios online through a secure, passwordprotected web portal. Updated daily and offered at no charge, Mr. Westonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clients can instantly print status, docket, and maintenance reports and check the status of pending opposition proceedings at their convenience. Adding to his commercial chops, Mr. Weston also serves as Chairman and CEO of Australian Securities

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

Exchange (ASX) listed biotechnology company Agenix Limited. Agenix has operations in China where it is developing a hepatitis B drug, and in the U.S. where it is commercializing a novel monoclonal antibody diagnostic for detecting pulmonary embolisms and thrombosis. Agenix has a broad global portfolio of intellectual property assets, including a number of patents, that it seeks to both protect and leverage. Mr. Weston is responsible for overseeing all legal matters of Agenix including litigation, intellectual property, licensing, commercial transactions, technology transfers, IP due diligence investigations and management of outside counsel. At Agenix, Mr. Weston has unwound a deal in China left by a QSFWJPVT CPBSE PWFSTFFO UIF SFDPWFSZ PG . JO China, bankrupted and jailed a former CEO who had TUPMFO . GSPN UIF DPNQBOZ FNQMPZFE UIF GPSNFS head of global business development of Pfizer, Inc to lead the partnering program for its clot diagnostic technology and in-licensed a diagnostic device from another stock exchange listed company in exchange for stock, payable over time, in instalments. The firm was named a top trade marks firm in the country for three straight years (2008, 2009 and 2010) by Managing Intellectual Property Magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s World Survey for â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Trade Mark Prosecutionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Trade Mark Contentiousâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. According to the 2008 IP Handbook published by Managing IP magazine, â&#x20AC;&#x153;clients noted the thoroughness of the firmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paperwork and â&#x20AC;&#x153;attention to detailâ&#x20AC;?â&#x20AC;?. The firm was also shortlisted for the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Intellectual Property Advisory Excellenceâ&#x20AC;? award in Australia as part of Corporate International Magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Global Awards 2010. In one of the most creative licensing transactions of 2012, on behalf of Agenix Limited, Mr Weston negotiated an agreement with Tyrian Diagnostics Limited (ASX: TDX) to licence its rapid point-of-care human diagnostic technology in a share exchange transaction. Under the terms of the agreement, Agenix will license exclusive world-wide royalty free rights to all human health applications for Tyrianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proprietary DiagnostIQÂŽ rapid point-of-care test platform. In return, Agenix will provide Tyrian with "HFOJY TIBSFT UP UIF WBMVF PG NJMMJPO QBZBCMF JO installments to be completed by June 2014. Mr Weston was also Presiding Panelist in one of the leading WIPO domain name decisions of 2012 that made a rare but unanimous finding of Reverse Domain Name Hijacking (RDNH) against the complainant. What sets the firm apart is its approach in providing decisive guidance and readable advice that seamlessly links IP with corporate and commercial legal issues, and documents drafted through a litigatorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prism.

Nick Weston Nicholas Weston Lawyers & Trade Marks Attorneys Melbourne Ground Floor, 156 Collins Street Melbourne Vic. 3000 National: 1300 132 551 International: +61 1300 132 551 Email: mail@nicholasweston.com

WINNER

HONG KONG - PRIVATE CLIENT ADVISORY OF THE YEAR - NYGT (HONG KONG) LIMITED Who is NYGT? Since our foundation over a century ago, NYGT has been managing the financial affairs of private clients and their business interests. Our prime aim is to help our clients achieve their financial ambitions, both corporate and personal. Our clients are varied - private individuals, mid-large businesses and professional practices. Our business spans 8 principal regions around the world, with locations in Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai, Seoul, Singapore, Vancouver, London and New York. In a business as diverse as ours, professionalism and teamwork are keys. We recognize that clients and intermediaries take comfort from knowing that they can easily reach senior people and decision-makers in our organization who are able to understand their needs and objectives. Our business thrives on its people - a pool of highly talented and enthusiastic individuals who deliver a broad and innovative range of services, but without compromising on delivering a genuinely director-

led service. Technical excellence underpins how we deliver our services and our teams are dedicated to offering practical financial solutions. People may ask what sets us apart from our competitors; put simply, it’s our people - ambitious, talented and enthusiastic professionals who enjoy what they do and relish the opportunity to work together and with our clients.

NYGT (Hong Kong) Limited Member Of NYGT Group NYGT (HONG KONG) LIMITED P.O.Box 792 General Post Office Hong Kong E nygt-pr@nygtgroup.org

Our History NYGT was founded in New York in the 1930’s and has, for many years, combined independent trusts with an investment management and private banking house profile. The firm we know today has evolved by exponential growth and has gained an enviable reputation as a leading financial services firm which offers a full and innovative range of services. Today, there are over 100 consultants who operate from 8 principal offices around the world, providing corporate finance management and advisory services to private clients, professional practices and mid-large corporation.

WINNER

HONG KONG - PRIVATE EQUITY FIRM OF THE YEAR - NYGT (HONG KONG) LIMITED

Who is NYGT? Since our foundation over a century ago, NYGT has been managing the financial affairs of private clients and their business interests. Our prime aim is to help our clients achieve their financial ambitions, both corporate and personal. Our clients are varied - private individuals, mid-large businesses and professional practices. Our business spans 8 principal regions around the world, with locations in Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai, Seoul, Singapore, Vancouver, London and New York. In a business as diverse as ours, professionalism and teamwork are keys. We recognize that clients and intermediaries take comfort from knowing that they can easily reach senior people and decision-makers in our organization who are able to understand their needs and objectives. Our business thrives on its people - a pool of highly talented and enthusiastic individuals who deliver a broad and innovative range of services, but without compromising on delivering a genuinely director-

NYGT (Hong Kong) Limited Member Of NYGT Group NYGT (HONG KONG) LIMITED P.O.Box 792 General Post Office Hong Kong E nygt-pr@nygtgroup.org

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

AUSTRAILIA - PRIVATE EQUITY FIRM OF THE YEAR - PACIFIC EQUITY PARTNERS

ASIA PACIFIC - LARGE EQUITY HOUSE OF THE YEAR, PACIFIC EQUITY PARTNERS

Market Leading Returns From Australia/New Zealand Control investments EV A$200M – 1,000M, Australia/New Zealand

SCAHA

Peters

Spotless

Personal Products

Ice Cream

Industrial Services

Leveraged Joint Venture

Multinational Carve-Out

Public to Private

Jan 12

Aug 12

Veda Advantage

Hoyts Group

AST

EDL

Business Intelligence

Media & Entertainment

Share Registry

Energy

Public to Private

Corporate Carve-Out

Private Vendor

Public/Control

Jul 07

Dec 07

May 08

Jan 10

Link/AAS

Xtralis

Griffin’s

Share Registry

Fire/Security

Biscuits/Snacks

Corporate Carve-Out

Multinational Carve-Out

Aug 05

Feb 06

Jun 06

2012 Australasia – Firm of the Year, PEI Award 2013 Australia – Private Equity Firm of the Year, M&A International Global Award 2013 Asia Pacific – Large Equity House of the Year, ACQ Global Award 2013 Australia – Private Equity Firm of the Year, ACQ Global Award

www.pep.com.au ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013 67

WINNER

INDIA - INDEPENDENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - O.P. KHAITAN & CO The Firm:

Practice Areas:

O.P. Khaitan & Co. (the “Firm”) is a well-established and successful law firm founded by Mr. O.P. Khaitan in March 1990 in New Delhi. Currently, the Firm is being managed by Mr. Gautam Khaitan as its Managing Partner who possesses vast corporate and litigation experience. The Firm is a highly reputed, skilled and professionally managed law firm based in New Delhi. The members and associates of the Firm are qualified from National and International Universities and have vast and extensive legal experience in their fields. The Firm has paralegal and support staff of more than 40 people.

The Firm’s practice extends to the areas like Arbitration and ADR; Civil, Criminal and Commercial Litigation; Corporate & Transactional Documentation; Fund Investments (PE Investments); Industrial Disputes & Labour Laws; IT; Infrastructure & Mining Projects; Insurance; IPRs; Banking, Capital Market & Finance; International Trade; Investment/ Disinvestment in India & Abroad; TMT; M & A, Joint-Ventures & Foreign Collaborations; NGOs; Real Estate; Regulatory Approvals & Compliances; Taxation; Administrative & Constitutional Laws; Debt Recovery & BIFR Matters, etc.

The Firm’s paramount concept of “Client Satisfaction” is the backbone of its work culture and the Firm takes great pride in consistently adopting the highest international standards for all clients’ matters. This commitment makes it accessible, communicative, responsive, value-added, dedicated and focused on its clients’ needs, conscious of cost and commercially pragmatic in its advice and assistance.

Due to our good working relations with a number of lawyers and law firms in other jurisdictions and as we have very close relations with many national and international firms, law firms networks around the globe, we ensure ready access to swift legal advice in other jurisdictions whenever needed. Further, the Firm is also a member of IBA, IACC, IICC, IGCC, ICC, FICCI, SILF, SCBA and Delhi High Court Bar Association.

Our Memberships & Affiliations:

O.P. Khaitan & Co Khaitan House, B-1, Defence Colony, New Delhi - 110 024, India T +91-11-46501000 F +91-11-24337958, 41551590

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2012

WINNER

INDIA - TRADEMARK LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, R K DEWAN & CO

WINNER

SOUTH KOREA - LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR, TAE YEON CHO, PARTNER - CHO & PARTNERS

Tae-Yeon Cho began his career focusing on IP law at a time when the concept of intellectual property was in its infancy in Korea. As a result, he is considered to be among Korea’s most knowledgeable and experienced IP lawyers. Mr Cho is also recognised as a distinguished trial lawyer, having served as lead counsel in a number of significant cases involving IP issues and commercial subjects.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2012

Mr Cho serves as an executive member of Korea’s Internet Address Dispute Resolution Committee. He has been recognised as one of Asia’s leading business lawyers in the area of intellectual property by Asia Law & Practice (2004-2013). In addition, he was recognised as a leading individual in the area of intellectual property by the Asia-Pacific Legal 500 (2001–2013) and as a highly recommended IP attorney in Korea by PLC (2005–2012).

Tae-Yeon Cho - Partner E tycho@cholaw.com Cho & Partners 6th and 13th floors, Ann Jay Tower 718-2 Yeoksam-dong, Kangnam-Ku Seoul 135-080, Korea T +822 6207 6800 F +822 6207 6801 www.cholaw.com

WINNER

SINGAPORE - LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, TAN KOK QUAN PARTNERSHIP Tan Kok Quan Partnership, founded in 2000, is a leading boutique law firm specialising in litigation. Its litigation practice covers various areas, such as: administrative law, banking and securities law, civil and commercial law, defamation, probate and administration of estates and wills, professional negligence and real estate. The group holds its own against similar practice groups of the largest firms, with its wealth of experience in handling a diverse range of cases, particularly complex civil and commercial disputes. Its clientele include multinational companies, export-import governmental agencies, statutory boards, banks, financial institutions, stockbroking firms, listed companies as well as small and medium enterprises. Handling civil and commercial cases is a core competency of the practice group; in some of these cases landmark decisions have been made by the courts. The department regularly deals with claims involving investigations into fraud, negligence, disputes between shareholders or partners, employment disputes, joint venture disputes and other contractual disputes. The banking and securities law department acts for banks, finance companies, other financial institutions and stockbroking firms in advisory roles, as well as their counsel in court to handle claims and disputes. It also handles debt recovery work and has an experienced team of lawyers and support staff who deal with such claims from the issuance of the writ through to execution proceedings. Kannan Ramesh, Senior Counsel heads the firm’s dispute resolution, insolvency and international arbitration practices. He is also the firm’s engagement partner for

emerging Asian markets in particular India and Indonesia. Ramesh has been recognized as an outstanding choice as counsel in dispute resolution. Chambers Asia and Chambers Asia-Pacific describe him as “impressive, articulate and bright”, “the driving force in the firm”, “the key name at the firm and a well respected, aggressive insolvency litigator” and “an impressive, open-minded and client orientated litigator, whom it is a pleasure to work with”. Ramesh is recommended for dispute resolution in the Euromoney publication Asialaw Leading Lawyers – “A Guide to Asia’s Finest Lawyers”. Ramesh is also mentioned in the International Who’s Who of Business Lawyers, The International Who’s Who of Insolvency and Restructuring Lawyers and the “International Who’s Who of Professionals”.

Tan Kok Quan Partnership Eddee Ng - Partner T +65 6225 9333 E eddeeng@tkqp.com.sg www.tkqp.com.sg

Ramesh has more than 20 years of dispute resolution experience. He has handled various complex disputes, both in Court and in arbitration, for international and domestic clients. He has a particular focus on private client work in emerging markets with a South Asian emphasis. Ramesh’s dispute resolution experience is in the areas of real estate, banking, insolvency, corporate and shareholders issues, trust, professional negligence, crossborder investment disputes, private equity, hotel disputes, competition law and commercial crime. Also, he has led teams appointed to investigate corporate failures and corporate malfeasance. Many of these engagements have resulted in the submission of reports authored by Ramesh to the Singapore Stock Exchange and the Monetary Authority of Singapore. An engagement of particular note is China Aviation Oil (S) Limited.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2012

GERMANY - BOUTIQUE MERCHANT BANKING FIRM OF THE YEAR – Acxit Capital Management.

Constantia Flexibles acquires leading global label manufacturer Spear

Frankfurt, 7th May 2013. Constantia Flexibles Group, headquartered in Vienna, Austria, acquired Spear Group – one of the leading manufacturers of labels globally. Acxit Capital Management acted as exclusive financial advisor to Spear Group in this transaction. A team of Acxit Capital Management GmbH has acted as an exclusive financial advisor for global labels business Spear Group on its acquisition by Vienna headquartered Constantia Flexibles Group. Spear has been the world’s leading innovator and supplier of pressure sensitive labels for the beverage industry since 1982. The company has sales of BQQSPYJNBUFMZ 64 NJMMJPO XJUI FNQMPZFFT located at four facilities in North America, one site in Europe (Cwmbran, UK), one site in South Africa and a sales office in Singapore. Additionally, Spear has an increasingly growing business which provides re-sealable products primarily for the food and snack markets. Thomas Unger, CEO of Constantia Flexibles, said: “We will be able to serve our customers even better together with Spear, a leading beverage labels

business with a highly attractive, global, blue-chip customer base. The Group’s outstanding technological capabilities present many opportunities for continued profitable growth. We look forward to partnering with Spear’s excellent management team to capture the benefits from combining our businesses.” “We are excited by the increased opportunities that Spear will be able to offer our customers by joining forces with Constantia Flexibles. This combination will enhance our leadership position in the technological development of pres-sure sensitive labeling for primary brand decoration,” said Rick Spear, CEO of Spear.” “It was an important transaction for Acxit Capital showing strength of packaging practice as well as ability to deliver multinational clients valuable advice” said Thomas Klack and Jens Tschauder, who led the Acxit Capital team. The transaction was closed on the 7th of May, 2013. Constantia Flexibles is a leading flexible packaging group supplying international customers in the food, pet food, pharmaceutical and beverage industries. More than 6,500 employees in over 50 group companies in 20 countries offer innovative packaging solutions on a global basis.

WINNER

Transaction team: Thomas Klack, Managing Partner Jens Tschauder, Managing Partner Alexander Klemm, Managing Partner Ruta Morkeliunaite, Director Nadim Yusufi, Analyst Acxit Capital Management is an independent, privately owned boutique merchant banking firm founded in 1999 with offices in Frankfurt and Zürich. Activities comprise financial advisory, capital raising, principal investments and asset management services. Our activities in Corporate Finance include advisory ser-vices in Strategic and Corporate Development, Restruc-turing, Capital Markets, Mergers & Acquisitions and Dis-posals. We assist in Alternative Capital Raising and In-vestments. We believe in long term relationships with clients in all corporate finance and investment matters taking a holistic approach. We assist listed corporations, family businesses and entrepreneurs, financial sponsors, family offices and institutional investors both in the German speaking region and internationally. Having embraced growth markets early we strengthened our reach through international partnerships with Tata Strategic and Tata Capital in India, in China with CICC, Capital First Partners and Capital 8 as well as Istnvest in Turkey. For recent transactions please refer to our homepage: www.acxit.com. Acxit Capital’s managing partners are Johannes Lucas, Thomas Klack, Jens Tschauder, Dr. Hanns Alexander Klemm, Peter Hollmann and Christopher Klemm.

Press contact: Alexander Klemm Managing Partner Acxit Capital Management GmbH Siesmayer Carrée Siesmayerstraße 21 30323 Frankfurt/M Tel: +49 (0)69-7706060 Fax: +49-(0)69-77076996 E-Mail: press@acxit.com

WINNER

SWEDEN - STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT CONSULTANT OF THE YEAR - A.T. Kearney AB

A.T. Kearney – assisting private equity firms and portfolio companies creating competitive advantage A.T. Kearney is a global team of forward-thinking, collaborative partners that delivers immediate, meaningful results and a long-term transformational advantage to our clients and colleagues. Since 1926, we have been trusted advisors on CEO-agenda issues to the world’s leading organizations across all major industries and sectors. A.T. Kearney works collaboratively with private equity firms through the entire investment process—from deal origination, due diligence, 100-day planning, and restructuring operations, to building up assets, creating value, and exiting the investment. Our dedicated global team of industry experts has unparalleled depth of knowledge, experience, and a deep understanding of operational processes vital to improve portfolio companies. A.T. Kearney assists in deal origination with comprehensive knowledge of the market and competition dynamics in specific industries. Impending portfolio restructurings in large corporate groups often provide early leads in possible acquisition targets for Private Equity investors. In the ongoing dialogue with our Private Equity clients, we discuss market scenarios and potential transaction structures. Commercial and Operational Due Diligence advice from the A.T. Kearney team includes the analysis of the market position and competitive landscape of

a company. The key to understanding a business is deep industry knowledge and capacity to evaluate the competitive landscape and the technological trends along the industry’s value chain. A.T. Kearney has consultants with long industry experience that possess the competence to evaluate of the attractiveness of an investment object. Besides the market opportunities, the operational improvement potential is of major importance. Following a successful acquisition, A.T. Kearney’s salient strength in operations supports the investors both in the short-term restructuring process or development program and in the comprehensive execution of programs aimed to improve profitability and cash flow. A.T. Kearney also supports investors both in the search for suitable buyers and in Vendor Due Diligences when an investment nears exit. Here, we evaluate the quality of the business plan against the background of the expected market developments as well as other opportunities and risks for the future of the business in a holistic manner.

“The recognition by ACQ as the strategic management consultant of the year is a testament of the great team we have and the quality of the work we do for our clients”

Bo Kaunitz Lead Partner in A.T. Kearney’s Nordic Private Equity Practice T +46 8 679 3900 E bo.kaunitz@atkearney.com

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

FRANCE

WINNER

- SPECIALIST ADVISER OF THE YEAR, ADVENTION BUSINESS PARTNERS

Advention Business Partners is a strategy consulting

corporate and business unit strategies resulting in increased

group that helps boards and senior management address

competitive advantage and greater shareholder value.

complex issues in areas including corporate strategy,

Advention Business Partners assists its clients in the

business unit strategy, performance improvement,

management of their corporate portfolio to long-term value

turnaround/restructuring, transaction services and

creation, and in their business unit strategy which includes

commercial/strategic due diligence.

knowing what business to be in, understanding the sources

Advention Business Partners currently employs sixty professionals in its international offices (Dubai, London, Munich, New York, Paris and Shanghai). Clients come

of competitive advantage in that business, and developing a plan to capture sustainably a relative advantage over competition

from a number of sectors and include global clients,

Advention Business Partners is also very active with its

small/middle-sized businesses and private equity

private equity clients at every point of the transaction

firms worldwide.

process. Services range from acquisition screens,

Advention Business Partners has a reputation for longterm relationships with its clients, valuable independence and acute business sense.

Advention Business Partners

commercial/strategic due diligence as well as post-merger

Alban Neveux (Managing Director)

management. When analyzing an investment, Advention

E-mail: alban.neveux@adventionbp.com

Business Partners goes through a rigorous and systematic

Address in France: 6 rue Anatole de La Forge – 75017 Paris

analytical process in order to provide its clients with a

As a strategic advisor, Advention Business Partners

clear advice regarding a “go / no go” decision and the

Telephone: +33 6 10 94 33 39

works with its corporate clients to develop efficient

impact on valuation.

Web address: www.adventionbp.com

WINNER

BELGIUM - BUSINESS CRIME LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - AFSCHRIFT G.E.I.E AFSCHRIFT (Listed 3 times in www.worldfinance100.com) is a multi awarded 21 lawyers boutique law firm established in Brussels, Antwerp, Geneva, Luxembourg, Madrid and Tel Aviv. With over 30 years experience in domestic and international tax law and white-collar crime law, Professor Thierry AFSCHRIFT leads the firm’s practice and advises a significant number of major companies and banks. He is admitted to the Brussels, Antwerp and Madrid Bar, while being member of Luxembourg and Geneva bars.

Tax issues linked with business ones are more and more complex these days, and for many years now have typically been sanctioned by criminal penalties. The firm gives preventive and rigorous advice in relation to the decisions and behavior clients plan to adopt in the framework of their businesses, so as to avoid the application of criminal law. When clients are involved in criminal proceedings, we also assist them assertively and effectively, notably to assure respect for their fundamental rights.

AFSCHRIFT’s lawyers engage in all matters of (international) business law and more specifically tax and international law, cross-border mergers and acquisitions, international tax planning and optimization, consultancy and litigation, as well as consultancy on taxation related to financial instruments. They also specialize in business crime cases.

Furthermore, AFSCHRIFT Law Firm defends all taxpayers in all disputes concerning all taxes matters. The firm defends taxpayers undergoing criminal prosecution in tax and all other financial cases, both during the preliminary investigation stage and before the courts. When clients are involved in criminal proceedings, the firm assists them assertively and effectively, notably to assure respect for their fundamental rights.

AFSCHRIFT Law Firm is specialized in domestic and international tax law and law relating to white collar crime. AFSCHRIFT law firm has been established in Brussels since 1994 and over the years, has expanded its presence and activity in Antwerp, Geneva, Luxembourg, Madrid and Tel Aviv. The firm advises all taxpayer, natural or legal persons, in order to organize at the best their personal, real property or professional patrimony. As a specialist, it helps its clients in performing transactions including by setting up international financial packages that minimize tax costs while remaining legally compliant. The firm gives preventive and rigorous advice in relation to the decisions and behavior clients plan to adopt, so as to avoid the application of fiscal and criminal laws.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013 75

The firm has participated in the major tax and criminal trials of the past 20 years and acts as a counsel for several Belgian, Swiss and Luxembourgian banks and financial institutions, as well as for wealthy individuals. The firm chose deliberately the “boutique” status as it dedicates its entire activity to the sphere of Tax Law and Financial Criminal Law. This situation allows the firm to gather real specialist lawyers. This grants also the firm a large independence.

Thierry Afschrift AFSCHRIFT LAW FIRM Avenue Louise, 208 B-1050 Brussels BELGIQUE T +32 (0)2 646 46 36 F +32 (0)2 644 38 00 E avocats@afschrift.com www.afschrift.com

WINNER

BELGIUM - TAX LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - AFSCHRIFT G.E.I.E

AFSCHRIFT Law Firm is specialized in domestic and international tax law and law relating to white collar crime. AFSCHRIFT law firm was established in Brussels in 1994 and over the years, has expanded its presence and activity in Antwerp, Geneva, Luxembourg, Madrid and Tel Aviv. The firm advises all taxpayer, natural or legal persons, in order to organize at the best their personal, real property or professional patrimony. As a specialist, it helps its clients in performing transactions including by setting up international financial packages that minimize tax costs while remaining legally compliant. The firm gives preventive and rigorous advice in relation to the decisions and behavior clients plan to adopt, so as to avoid the application of fiscal and criminal laws. Furthermore, AFSCHRIFT Law Firm defends all taxpayers in all disputes concerning all taxes matters. The firm also defends assertively and effectively taxpayers undergoing criminal prosecution in tax and all other financial cases, notably to assure respect for their fundamental rights.

AFSCHRIFT often appears as a “pioneer” in respect to the developed argumentation.The firm chose deliberately the “boutique” status as it dedicates its entire activity to the sphere of Tax Law and Financial Criminal Law. This situation allows the firm to gather real specialist lawyers. This grants also the firm a large independence. With over 30 years experience in domestic and international tax law and white-collar crime law, Professor Thierry AFSCHRIFT leads the firm’s practice and advises a significant number of major companies and banks, in reorganizations, tax planning and tax litigation. He is the Founder and a board member of the tax Management School at the Solvay Business School of the Université Libre de Bruxelles. Thierry AFSCHRIFT is deputy judge at the Court of Appeal in Brussels. He is admitted to the Brussels Bar, the Geneva Bar, to the Bar of Luxembourg and to the Bar of Antwerp. He is the author of some 75 publications on tax issues and organizes numerous symposia on domestic and international tax matters. He has been awarded many times. He is notably listed in the world finance 100.

Thierry Afschrift AFSCHRIFT LAW FIRM Avenue Louise, 208 B-1050 Brussels BELGIQUE T +32 (0)2 646 46 36 F +32 (0)2 644 38 00 E avocats@afschrift.com www.afschrift.com

WINNER

LUXEMBOURG - FUNDS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - AMMC Law S.A. AMMC Law is an independent, top tier Luxembourg law firm with a steadily growing presence in Luxembourg and abroad. Described as “a genuine alternative to the ‘big’ Luxembourg law firms”, we provide legal advice to national and international clients, both individuals and organisations, across a wide range of practice areas and industry sectors. Our lawyers are recognized as experts in their fields, and underpinning our legal advice is both an understanding of the commercial challenges faced by our clients and a desire to help resolve those challenges in the most efficient, cost-effective way possible.

Experience the difference Our strategy is clear: we want to be the first-choice law firm for clients seeking the best Luxembourg legal advice while providing flexible, responsive and cost-effective service. While we are Luxembourg law specialists, the international background of our staff – consisting of many nationalities with experience from a number of jurisdictions - enables us to anticipate and avoid the complications or delays than can otherwise arise in cross-border transactions. We think our approach can be summarised as responsive, reliable, and efficient. We are delighted to be able to say that the majority of our new clients come from recommendations from existing

clients, as well as their intermediaries and service providers, all of whom appreciate our responsiveness and efficiency. AMMC Law is continually developing its ever-expanding funds practice. Our dedicated funds department has extensive experience advising on the setting-up, maintenance and regulatory compliance requirements of regulated and unregulated investment funds. During the past twelve months, AMMC Law has advised on the setting-up and structuring of a number of Luxembourg alternative investment funds, covering a wide range of investment targets and strategies. In addition, the firm advises entities seeking a listing on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange. Areas of expertise: Ŕ structuring and formation of regulated and unregulated investment funds, including UCITS and alternative investment funds; Ŕ advising on private equity and hedge fund strategies; Ŕ provision of assistance in relation to the distribution of Luxembourg investment funds in other jurisdictions, in particular Switzerland; Ŕ provision of corporate advice and services in relation to the structuring of Luxembourg investment funds; Ŕ representation in working groups of the Association of the Luxembourg Fund Industry.

Contact Details: Julien Dif AMMC Law SA 2-4, rue Eugène Ruppert L-2453 Luxembourg T +352 26 27 22 00 www.ammclaw.com

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

LUXEMBOURG - LITIGATION FIRM OF THE YEAR - AMMC Law S.A. AMMC Law is an independent, top tier Luxembourg law firm with a steadily growing presence in Luxembourg and abroad. Described as “a genuine alternative to the ‘big’ Luxembourg law firms”, we provide legal advice to national and international clients, both individuals and organisations, across a wide range of practice areas and industry sectors. Our lawyers are recognized as experts in their fields, and underpinning our legal advice is both an understanding of the commercial challenges faced by our clients and a desire to help resolve those challenges in the most efficient and cost-effective way possible.

Christophe Maillard is head of the litigation department. Along with various business law cases (including employment law cases), he has recently assisted clients in defending their brands, trademarks and know-how. He currently represents clients in large international litigations and unfair competition cases. Christophe’s modern and innovative legal approach is also reflected by providing Luxembourg legal information through Twitter and LinkedIn, in the development of the first free Luxembourg legal iPhone and iPad app (iLaw) and

Experience the difference

in the use of QR Codes.

Our strategy is clear: we want to be the first-choice law firm for clients seeking the best Luxembourg legal advice while providing a flexible, responsive and cost-effective service.

Winning this award is a great achievement for the firm and

While we are Luxembourg law specialists, the international background of our staff – consisting of many nationalities with experience from a number of jurisdictions - enables us to anticipate and avoid the complications or delays than can otherwise arise in cross-border transactions. We think our approach can be summarised as responsive, reliable and efficient.

highlights how the development strategy and philosophy of AMMC Law and its litigation department are recognised by clients, peers and professional contacts.

Contact Details: Christophe Maillard

Law works, to ensure that its clients receive the best

AMMC Law SA Inscrite au Barreau de Luxembourg 2-4, rue Eugène Ruppert L-2453 Luxembourg R.C.S. Luxembourg B 174.465

service possible.

T +352 26 27 22 00

The firm considers it as further support and encouragement to continue its efforts to improve the way in which AMMC

www.ammclaw.com

WINNER

SWEDEN - PRIVATE EQUITY ADVISER OF THE YEAR - ARTHUR D. LITTLE AB

Arthur D. Little – linking strategy, technology and innovation – helping investors and portfolio companies to outperform Founded in 1886 as the world’s first management consultancy, Arthur D. Little has continually transformed businesses by applying its expertise in linking strategy, innovation and technology. Today, Arthur D. Little helps investors and private equity firms achieve superior returns, while guiding companies to create growth, overcome challenges, and increase their efficiency and competitiveness in a globalised marketplace. The Arthur D. Little brand is synonymous with technological ingenuity, innovative thinking and problem solving. Our consulting services have historically been sought after by corporations, governments and investors. Arthur D. Little continues to lead strategic thinking in innovationdriven industries such as Automotive & Manufacturing, Energy & Utilities, Life Sciences & Chemicals and TIME (Telecom, Information, Media,

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013 77

Electronics), and helps its clients assess future developments and trends in new and emerging markets. Arthur D. Little‘s transaction teams provide independent, impartial and expert advice to ensure that good deals get done. Buy side and sell side in need of Commercial Due Diligences turn to Arthur D. Little as well as boards and management teams of portfolio companies in need of 100 day plans and various performance improvement programs. Petter Kilefors, Arthur D. Little’s Global Practice Leader comments;

“We are proud to be recognized by ACQ as the Private Equity Adviser of the Year.”

WINNER

CHANNEL ISLANDS - DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR – BABBÉ At Babbé we have an exceptional dispute resolution team. Forceful and effective, we work across the full range of commercial activity, but with a particular focus on finance related matters. We have represented clients in some of the largest and most complex cases ever to have taken place in Guernsey. We are widely acknowledged to be among the foremost Guernsey law firms in fields including contentious trust litigation, commercial fraud, insolvency, and professional indemnity. Due to the nature of Guernsey’s status as an offshore jurisdiction we have developed significant expertise in matters that have an international dimension. In addition to acting in the court of Guernsey, our lawyers also provide a wide range of services in support of overseas litigation, often acting as the local agent for leading international law firms. Experience you can trust We have successfully taken a preliminary issue to the Privy Council in an action where we act for a local corporate trustee defending a claim for breach of trust arising out of the trust’s investment strategy. This £65 million pound claim involves legal issues at the heart of Guernsey trusts law and the Privy Council has now upheld our arguments. We won an appeal to the Guernsey Court of Appeal on behalf of Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC), enabling it to be joined as a party to a Hastings-Bass application. This was the first such joinder anywhere in the world.

We are involved in several major funds litigation cases, variously on behalf of investors and on behalf of the fund, including giving expert evidence of Guernsey law in foreign proceedings. We successfully acted on behalf of a major Trust Company, recently obtaining judgment for in excess of €3million from a fiduciary agent. We also obtained a worldwide freezing order in support of the judgment and the first ever order in Guernsey for interest on costs. We recently acted in a shareholder dispute arising out of a major onshore joint venture conducted through a Guernsey corporate vehicle. Having demonstrated the strength of our client’s case in emergency injunctive proceedings, we were then able to obtain third party commercial funding for an unfair prejudice action. We achieved a satisfactory settlement of the dispute within 5 weeks. We are acting for construction professionals in a multi-million pound dispute concerning a major mixed use development. This is one of a number of cases in which we are involved pioneering the use of e-disclosure in Guernsey. We obtained a freezing injunction as part of a worldwide claim arising out of allegations of the fraudulent use of voyage and time charter parties for an Eastern European tanker fleet. Ian Swan, a partner at Babbé and head of the Dispute Resolution team said, “Our success is down to the quality of our lawyers and the strength in depth we now have.”

Ian Swan Babbé P O Box 69 18-20 Smith Street St. Peter Port Guernsey GY1 4BL T +44 (0) 1481 746176 F +44 (0) 1481 712245 E i.swan@babbelegal.com www.babbelegal.com

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2012 2013

WINNER

GUERNSEY - COMMERCIAL PROPERTY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR – BABBE At Babbé we have been involved in a significant proportion of the major property transactions that have taken place in Guernsey in the last few years. Clients choose our firm for the breadth of our expertise and for our ability to make the buying, selling or leasing of property as straightforward a process as possible. Guernsey property law is a highly specialised area. We advise our clients on all aspects of property transactions, including planning considerations and environmental liabilities. We assist with the development of large-scale commercial projects, and have experience with projects that have an international investment dimension. Our lawyers have substantial expertise in helping to resolve disputes between interested parties, including landlords, tenants, and developers.

Experience you can trust We acted for Harmsworth Pension Funds Trustees Limited, the purchaser of “Park Place” for £9.514 million and we recently acted for the funder of the highest value commercial property transaction ever to have taken place in Guernsey. We continue to be at the forefront of many of the major property transactions in Guernsey including: t The purchase of a warehouse/business continuity suite for £4.7m. t The purchase of the B&Q building at £14m t The purchase of several office blocks and complexes ranging in value from £3m to £7m We have also acted in many Landlord and tenant matters including for landlords, in prominent “High Street” retail premises, industrial units, office blocks and other commercial premises and for tenants the leases of retail and office premises.

Martyn Baudains Babbé P O Box 69 18-20 Smith Street St. Peter Port Guernsey GY1 4BL T +44 1481 746173 F +44 1481 726324 E m.baudains@babbelegal.com www.babbelegal.com

We are also very active in commercial property financing arrangements and have been involved in a wide range of commercial property transactions.

WINNER

GUERNSEY - OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR – BABBÉ

Babbé – a leading Guernsey law firm with a reputation for delivering world class legal services. We are one of Guernsey’s leading law firms and our corporate and commercial, trust and fiduciary, and funds teams represent a significant number of global businesses and institutions. Our “exceptional” dispute resolution team acts for many of these clients in contentious matters and also frequently works in partnership with international law firms on multi-jurisdictional matters.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013 79

Setting the standards in offshore commercial markets We have developed a range of legal specialisms in tandem with the development of Guernsey as a world-class offshore centre. We offer expert legal advice and representation to a wide variety of commercial clients, including multi-national banks, fiduciary companies, funds investors and insurers. Our clients choose us for our responsiveness to their needs, for our close understanding of the industries in which they operate, for our careful stewardship of their interests and, where appropriate, for our forceful and effective litigation.

Andrew Laws Babbé P O Box 69 18-20 Smith Street St. Peter Port Guernsey GY1 4BL T +44 (0)1481 746175 F +44 (0)1481 716956 E a.laws@babbelegal.com www.babbelegal.com

WINNER

SWITZERLAND - COMMERCIAL BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - BADERTSCHER ATTORNEYS AT LAW

Dr. Markus Dörig studied at Zurich and Geneva Law School and graduated in 1984. He was awarded his PH.D. “magna cum laude” and admitted to the Bar in 1987.

some multinational groups. He and his team have been very successful in servicing clients with both expertise and the necessary speed which has become crucial in the business.

Thereafter, he worked for a US law firm in Chicago.

Markus Dörig holds the following memberships: Zurich Bar Association (ZAV); Swiss Bar Association (SAV); International Bar Association (IBA); Swiss Fiscal Association; International Fiscal Association (IFA); Center For International Legal Studies, Salzburg; International Law Office (ILO): Alfa International (Amercian Law Firm Association) and MSI International.

In 1996, together with his partners, he founded his law firm BADERTSCHER Attorney at Law in Zurich. Markus Dörig has 25 years of professional experience. He focuses on international clients mainly in the corporate and M&A fields. He also is a member of the Board of Directors of

Dr. Markus Dörig Badertscher Rechtsanwälte AG Mühlebachstrasse 32 Postfach 769 8024 Zürich T +41-44-266 20 66 F +41-44-266 20 70 Grafenauweg 6 Postfach 4239 6304 Zug T +41 41 726 60 60 F +41 41 726 60 66 E info@b-legal.ch www.b-legal.ch

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

- COMMERCIAL LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, BARGATE MURRAY SOLICITORS - SHIPPING & MARITIME LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, BARGATE MURRAY SOLICITORS - INSURANCE LAWYER OF THE YEAR, QUENTIN BARGATE -足 BARGATE MURRAY SOLICITORS

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013 81

WINNER

UK - WHITE COLLAR CRIME LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR -Â BARK & CO SOLICITORS

Bark&co is a leading international law firm based in the heart of the City of London specialising in the corporate and civil fields. Bark&co is renowned for its work in the field of white collar fraud and it is rated in the Legal 500 as a top-tier leading firm. Our field of expertise includes complex fraud, serious crime civil and tax compliance. Our departments focus on civil litigation, regulatory matters, money laundering and asset protection. Bark&co cases often garner wide international press coverage and in-depth comment. For example, in R v Edmondson & Others, Bark&co represents the former editor of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;News of The Worldâ&#x20AC;? in the

notorious and political â&#x20AC;&#x153;media voicemail phone hackingâ&#x20AC;? case. Other recent highprofile cases include the Asil Nadir case, a Serious Fraud Office prosecution of the charismatic former chairman of multinational PollyPeck International, while in R v Kweku Adoboli at Southwark Crown Court, Bark&co represented a former trader at the Swiss Bank UBS in relation UP 64 CJMMJPO GSBVE CJMMFE BT #SJUUBOĹ?T biggest bank fraud. These cases highlight the Bark&co culture of vigorously fighting for their clients.

Mr Giles Bark-Jones Director

Bark&co are proud to have won this title and to continue our unwavering commitment towards our clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; interests.â&#x20AC;?

Bark & Co 14 New Bridge Street, London. EC4V 6AG T 0207 353 1990 E office@barkco.com www.barkco.com

WINNER

UK - HEALTH & SAFETY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR -Â Berrymans Lace Mawer LLP Berrymans Lace Mawer LLP is a defendant law firm specialising in advising a large number of leading corporate entities on a broad spectrum of legal issues. The firm acts for clients in a wide range of sectors and is recognised as a leading adviser to multinational conglomerates, insurers, Lloydâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s syndicates, underwriters, MGAs, brokers, corporate policyholders, public sector organisations, professional indemnifiers and other market organisations. With over 1,300 people and nine offices in the UK and Ireland, we promise to deliver clear concise advice and a stellar service to all our clients, through building long term partnerships with them. This means putting clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; interests at the very heart of our process, delivering value for money at every stage, sharing knowledge and protecting brand and reputation. BLMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s award-winning safety, health & environment (SHE) team regularly represents companies, public bodies, trusts and individuals including directors being investigated, questioned or prosecuted for corporate manslaughter, breaches of health & safety and regulatory offences. We respond to actions or threats from local authorities, the Environment Agency, the Health & Safety Executive and government agencies. The SHE team comprises more than 30 legal specialists operating across seven offices. It offers clients a comprehensive, regulatory service designed to manage

serious incidents, minimise disruption and protect clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; brands and operations. They include: Ĺ&#x201D; a dedicated 24 hour a day emergency incident helpline, giving clients immediate access to specialist legal advice and representation in the aftermath of an incident

For more information please contact:

Ĺ&#x201D; provision of crisis management support and a rapid response service Ĺ&#x201D; representation at PACE interviews under caution Ĺ&#x201D; handling of HSE / local authority / police investigations Ĺ&#x201D; defence of corporate manslaughter Ĺ&#x201D; representation at coronerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inquests and magistrates and crown court proceedings. The team uses its legal and forensic skills to clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; advantage. As dual specialists, it not only provides clients with effective risk management/incident prevention strategies, but also advises on civil claims arising out of incidents and regulatory matters. Legal directory, the Legal 500 2012, said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Berrymans Lace Mawer LLPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s knowledge of health and safety issues is excellentâ&#x20AC;Ś the firm does a great job for its clients.â&#x20AC;? In Chambers & Partners, clients recognise the firm as â&#x20AC;&#x153;an absolute model of efficiencyâ&#x20AC;? and members of the team are described as â&#x20AC;&#x153;committed and fearless and passionate about health and safety.â&#x20AC;? For more information, please visit www.blm-law.com

Helen Devery T 0161 838 6761 helen.devery@blm-law.com

Jennette Newman T 020 7865 3422 jennette.newman@blm-law.com

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

UK - ACTUARIAL ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR, BARNETT WADDINGHAM LLP

a true partnership approach

Avoid the pensions potholes The complexity of the pensions issues involved in a corporate transaction make it crucial to take specialist independent pensions advice. Barnett Waddingham’s award-winning specialist corporate M&A team, part of the UK’s largest independent provider of actuarial and pensions administration services, delivers expert pensions advice tailored to the specific circumstances of each deal. Our approach is captured through clear communication and practical advice on ways to manage the issues, taking into account the wider deal context. An online pensions guide for Finance Directors is available on our website.

www.barnett-waddingham.co.uk/corporate-consulting

corporateconsulting@barnett-waddingham.co.uk

Connect, learn & share Our Corporate Consulting Practice keeps you connected with the latest news, thinking and developments in pensions – all available on our website.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013 83

WINNER

UK - TURNAROUND INVESTOR OF THE YEAR - Better Capital LLP

Better Capital Founded by Jon Moulton, a highly experienced investor in distressed opportunities in October 2009, Better Capital comprises a small number of experienced and proven turnaround professionals with offices in London and Dublin. It actively seeks opportunities in businesses which require restructuring, both operationally and financially.

LP and BECAP12 Fund LP) focus on providing investment capital for the acquisition and operational turnaround of underperforming businesses. Typically, the Better Capital Funds will invest in businesses with turnover of up to £500 million and are lossmaking, requiring investment of up to £50 million and having significant operations in the UK or Ireland.

Better Capital provides consultancy services to the general partners of the Better Capital Funds. With over £400 million assets under management, the Better Capital Funds (BECAP Fund

To date the Better Capital Funds manage a portfolio of ten investments in sectors such as aerospace, technology, business services, consumer products and retail.

Better Capital LLP Third Floor, 39-41 Charing Cross Road, London, WC2H 0AR T +44 (0)20 7440 0840 F +44 (0)20 7440 0841 E info@bettercapital.co.uk

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

BENELUX - INDEPENDENT CORPORATE FINANCE FIRM OF THE YEAR, BLUEMIND CORPORATE FINANCE STRATEGY

corporate finance strategy BlueMind is one of the largest independent Corporate Finance firms in the The Netherlands, Belgium and Luxemburg (Benelux) and has been advising medium-sized, large and fastgrowing companies in the field of M&A, corporate funding and Management Buy-Outs since 1986. BlueMind is official listing sponsor of Alternext (NYSE Euronext). Track Record BlueMind is one of the very few M&A firms with an active track record throughout the Benelux. Next to assisting numerous clients, BlueMind completed 16 transactions in 2012 and has ranked in the top 10 of the mid market league tables of Thomson Reuters U.K. the last couple of years. Global Reach BlueMind is exclusive Benelux partner of Mergers Alliance. This reputable partnership consists of leading independent corporate finance firms from over 25 countries worldwide, winning various awards around the globe. For more information about BlueMind, clients and transactions, please visit www.bluemind.nl Europalaan 6 | 5232 BC ‘s-Hertogenbosch | The Netherlands T +31(0)73 623 87 74 | F +31(0)73 623 87 75 | www.bluemind.nl

WINNER

UK - IRELAND - CUSTODY TRANSFER AGENCY OF THE YEAR - BNY MELLON FUND SERVICES (IRELAND) LTD. - IRELAND - ACCOUNTING & ADMINISTRATION ADVISORY OF THE YEAR - BNY MELLON FUND SERVICES (IRELAND) LTD. - UK - INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT ADVISORY (INSURANCE) OF THE YEAR - BNY MELLON [EUROPE]

The ocean gets warmer. The Peruvian anchovy harvest suffers. It raises the price of fishmeal, cattle feed, and beef.

We turn global insights like these into powerful investment strategies for a university endowment. The endowment funds the work of a brilliant marine biologist. She studies the Peruvian anchovy. Proving small fish can lead to big insights.

bnymellon.com These illustrations do not depict actual clients or investment results. The value of investments and the income from them is not guaranteed and can fall as well as rise due to stock market and currency movements. When the investment is sold the amount received could be less than that originally invested. Past performance of any investment is not indicative nor a guarantee of future results. If distributed in EMEA, this advertisement is a financial promotion for Professional Clients only. This is not investment advice. BNY Mellon is the corporate brand of The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation and may also be used as a generic term to reference the Corporation as a whole or its various subsidiaries. Products and services may be provided under various brand names and in various countries by the subsidiaries, affiliates and joint ventures of The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation where authorized and regulated as required within each jurisdiction. Not all products and services are offered in all locations. This material is not intended, and should not be construed, to be an offer or solicitation of services or products or an endorsement thereof in any jurisdiction or in any circumstance that is contrary to local law or regulation. Issued by The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation with respect to services other than investment management. Issued in EMEA, with respect to investment management, by BNY Mellon Asset Management International Limited, BNY Mellon Centre, 160 Queen Victoria Street, London EC4V 4LA. Registered in England No. 1118580. Authorized and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. BNY Mellon Asset Management International Limited is ultimately owned by The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation. ©2013 The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation. All rights reserved.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013 85

Invested in the world.

WINNER

GERMANY - FINANCIAL ADVISORY OF THE YEAR, BÖHRET LINDSTEDT SEHMSDORF & PARTNER Consider the whole … observe every detail. We are a firm of auditors, lawyers and tax consultants. More than twenty five professionals provide consulting services on all business, legal and tax issues for mediumsized enterprises, private equity funds and venture

Knowing both sides, companies and financial institutions, we are able to build bridges and, although being focused on our client’s needs, keep his business partner’s requirements in mind. Our goal is making the deal possible. Besides the common services such as audits, assistance with financial statements according to German-GAAP and IFRS, national and international taxation a major part of our work is related to M&A, such as:

capitalists. Our client portfolio also includes wealthy private individuals, non-profit and public institutions. Our activities as corporate consultants are as complex as the challenges that our clients face every day as an

Ŕ business valuations according to legal requirements or as a basis for transactions

entrepreneur. Based on sound theory and proven in practice, the detailed knowledge of auditors, lawyers and tax consultants is combined into an interdisciplinary competence team, thus making it possible to consider

Ŕ due diligence audits Ŕ corporate reconstruction

every issue as a whole.

Ŕ structuring transactions reflecting legal, accounting and tax issues

#²ISFU Ŕ -JOETUFEU Ŕ 4FINTEPSG 1BSUOFS "VEJUPST Ŕ -BXZFST Ŕ 5BY $POTVMUBOUT

The sound experience of more than 15 years enables

Ŕ vendor due diligence

Michael Boehret

us to provide flexible and innovative solutions to the given tasks. The integrated consultancy approach gives us the capacity to cover M&A and financing transactions or to conduct a corporate reconstruction and due diligence process.

To cover this scope of work, we employ more than ten certified auditors, lawyers and certified tax consultants. To serve our clients on international tasks we are actively using our membership with IGAF-Polaris, a global association of independent firms.

As a full service law firm, Buse Heberer Fromm employs more than 120 lawyers and tax consultants and provides a range of consultancy services in six German business centres: Berlin, Dusseldorf, Essen, Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Munich. Our services include banking and finance, employment, corporate/M&A, information technology, insurance, intellectual property, real estate and tax law.

Maxstr. 8, 01067 Dresden, Germany m.boehret@boehret-lindstedt-sehmsdorf.de T +49 351 866 85 0 www.boehret-lindstedt-sehmsdorf.de

Over the past years, numerous of our firm‘s foreignbased clients have successfully expanded their business activities in Germany. Should you wish to join them, please contact our Managing Director: Christian Pothe, Harvestehuder Weg 23, 20149 Hamburg, Germany. Phone +49 (0) 40 41999-250, fax +49 (0) 40 41999-258, e-mail pothe@buse.de

GERMANY CORPORATE & COMMERCIAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR BUSE HEBERER FROMM

www.buse.de · Berlin · Dusseldorf · Essen · Frankfurt am Main · Hamburg · Munich www.buseinternational.com · Brussels · London · Milan · New York · Palma de Mallorca · Paris · Sydney · Zurich ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

UK - COMMERCIAL DUE DILIGENCE ADVISOR OF THE YEAR, CARLTON STRATEGY ADVISORS LIMITED Carlton Strategy Advisors gains triple due diligence award recognition ACQ Global Awards 2013 has recognised Carlton Strategy Advisors amongst a select number of leading firms working in an advisory capacity within the Due Diligence sector from a poll of its readership. Commenting on CSA’s three separate awards of: ’UK – COMMERCIAL DUE DILIGENCE ADVISOR OF THE YEAR, CARLTON STRATEGY ADVISORS LIMITED; UK - MARKET DUE DILIGENCE ADVISOR OF THE YEAR UK and UK - COMMERCIAL DEAL ADVISOR OF THE YEAR’, David McClelland, director, said, “CSA saw recovery in the transaction services sector over 2012/13 and we are therefore very pleased to see that our client related deal flow has gained such recognition.” CSA’s focus is on the SME/lower-mid market, where we aim to identify areas where we can

add value to client transactions across the range of private equity investment and bank lending. We are very much director led, seeking always to provide our clients with clear, evidenced, opinion in written due diligence reporting. Our predominant forte is within technical specification markets. In the past 12 months, we have looked at a range of business trading in the Nuclear, Aviation, Medical Diagnostics, Softwareas-a-Service and Oilfield Services industries, for example. And mostly in circumstances where the target business may have claimed a leadership position in its chosen field of specialism, rendering it potentially very attractive to investors and lenders because of the high barriers to entry that help protect volumes of trade and revenues on which the investment or lending model may be favourably disposed towards, subject to due diligence.

David McClelland Director Carlton Strategy Advisors T +44 (0) 208 947 5108 E info@carlton-advisors.co.uk

WINNER

UK - INVOICE DISCOUNTER OF THE YEAR - CENTRIC COMMERCIAL FINANCE Centric Commercial Finance funds the working capital and growth aspirations of UK-based SMEs. Centric is a multi-award winning independent Financial Services Group, focused on delivering eventdriven invoice discounting and asset based lending transactions to companies with revenues of more than £1million. The asset based lending facilities that Centric provides are typically secured by accounts receivable (with invoice discounting as the core element) plus cash flow loans, stock, plant & machinery and property. The experience of the senior management team in structuring and delivering invoice discounting and asset based lending transactions sets Centric Commercial Finance apart. Centric’s one stop invoice discounting and asset based lending solution is ideally suited to businesses going through event driven change such as management buyouts and buyins, exits for private equity and retirement, mergers and acquisitions, funding growth, refinancing, restructuring and turnarounds. Typically, Centric competes against banks or large financial institutions where creativity, speed of decision and certainty of delivery allows the team to compete successfully.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013 87

Centric Commercial Finance’s model is introducer based, focused on corporate financiers, accountants, private equity firms and brokers. The one thing all key business introducers have in common is the reliance they place on Centric delivering on their promises for every asset based lending or invoice discounting deal. In 2012, Centric broadened the diversity, reach and spread of its new business referrals, delivering 62 transactions from 38 different introducers, which include 10 Private Equity backed transactions. Over the past 12 months, Centric Commercial Finance also made the key strategic move to increase its individual facility limit to £15 million. This has served to further strengthen its relationships with private equity houses looking to fund transactions and re-finance portfolio companies through its asset based lending platform. By providing access to its experienced and accountable team of senior decision makers, Centric Commercial Finance continues to offer the quantum and certainty of funding, flexible approach, speed of response and focus on service and support that each individual client’s business situation demands.

Centric Commercial Finance T +44 (0) 20 8603 2900 E info@centricCF.com www.centricCF.com

We will pave the way for you

in the Czech Republic

Looking for a trustworthy partner in financial services? Searching for a solution for your corporate finances, payments or risk protection? The professional team of ČSOB’s corporate bankers offers a long-term partnership. With an over 45 years of tradition, we have an extensive expertise in corporate banking. Detailed knowledge of the local business environment makes us a top provider of financial services on the Czech market, proved by many international awards. We are eagerly looking forward to doing business with you.

www.csob.cz

Corporate and Institutional Banking

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

EASTERN EUROPE - BANK OF THE YEAR - CESKOSLOVENSKA OBCHODNI BANKA, A. S. Back to Basics ACQ’s Czech Republic Bank of the Year 2013 award goes again as in 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012 to ČSOB for outstanding skills and leadership in its marketplace. Charlotte Abbott talks to Ivan Meloun, Director of ČSOB’s Acquisition and Leveraged Finance department (CSOB AF), about the banks back to basic approach to lending.

The Bank ČSOB is part of Belgium’s KBC, a leading European bank assurance group, and is one of the biggest local banks in the Czech Republic, both in terms of balance sheet and number of corporate clients. Measured in the long term basis, most of the major corporate Czech firms use ČSOB as their house bank, or at the very least, one of them. CSOB AF is the transaction unit focused on origination of new deals from the new and existing customers generating financing of new transactions. CSOB AF is interested in all financing opportunities connected to its clients and prefers not to follow the cherrypicking strategy. Along with its corporate clientele, typical clients are private equity funds and wealthy individual investors.

“All business decisions in CSOB AF are made locally within ČSOB; we originate the deals ourselves.”

“We serve as the centre of excellence and support for other KBC units in the Central Europe regions like Slovakia, Hungary where KBC Bank is present. We exchange the best practices with K&H Bank in Hungary and ČSOB Slovakia, and provide our collective clients with full coverage of the CEE region.” “We also act as a local service point for foreign banks. When there is a big buy out, over €100m for example, that is being driven by maybe a London-based bank, we are a strong point of contact for the foreign bankers who will approach us for our local knowledge and advice. We are not the only local bank in this region, obviously, so I am always very happy when we are approached for this kind of advice.”

Ivan Meloun has been active in financial markets since 1996 working in, amongst other things, investment banking, asset management and company restructuring. “The role of the CSOB AF team is simple; we are part of the large structured finance division. There are other teams like us: Syndication, Project finance, Trade finance, Real estate finance, etc. All in all, there are some 40 commercial specialists in the ČSOB structured finance division. CSOB AF consists of 5 people, I guess we are the biggest team focusing on acquisition finance or leveraged buyout financing in the Czech Republic, it means that we in one team cover not only the LBO type of financing for the private equity sponsors but also the M&A financing dedicated for the corporate investors.”

Mr Ivan Meloun

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013 89

We know the formula for success As the largest bank on the Czech market, we continue to strengthen our leading role in corporate and institutional banking. Our clients can expect a high standard of service, as well as a professional and dependable team, offering a unique combination of insight into the local environment and a support from international KBC network. Our comprehensive, individually tailored financial and consulting services have been designed to establish long-term, mutually beneficial relationships with our corporate and institutional clients.

Ä&#x152;SOB for your success.

www.csob.cz

Corporate and Institutional Banking ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

CZECH - BANK OF THE YEAR

Winning Formula “Our winning formula is to keep banking simple. We are conservative bank and still use the old efficient model that has been used for hundred of years. “Our model doesn’t have any sophisticated products; we just focus on providing loans to our clients, like we have always done. We also always hold our loans till maturity and have an extreme focus on relationship building with customers. During the acquisition we cover both type of sponsors (i.e. private equity and trade buyers), so the long term relationship between the target company and our bank will last regardless who becomes the new owner ”

Big deal Last year, Ivan stated that he hoped to see the return of the big deals over €100m in CSOB’s marketplace and that the banks will find enough appetite to underwrite and syndicate them. “In the past we used to underwrite almost all senior facilities on our own. Nowadays, because the syndication market is very weak, we underwrite loans jointly with other banks or we engage in club financing.” In the Czech Republic we can see lot of a new transactions executed during 2012, like EUR 400 mio financing of Falcon (holding shares in T-Mobile CR) where CSOB co-ordinated the club financing and committed EUR 100 mio loan ticket, or EUR 1 bln facility for EP Energy, or EUR 1.5 bln facility where CSOB committed EUR 150m final holds in each transaction, or project Smetana for Macquarie with a bank loan EUR 300 mio where CSOB committed EUR 80 mio final hold. Despite the limited activity on the Western markets the Czech LBO market sees the slightly recovery trends, the local banks disposes with the funds and are prepared to allocate them, the local pricing still a little bit below Western European standards that makes financing quite attractive and also the drop in leverages is not so significant – the banks are still providing the senior leverage

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013 91

around 3.5x as before the crisis in 2008. The pipeline of new deals in 2013 is huge, we expect double digit growth both in terms of income and assets in year –o – year comparison. We are very pleased that the number of western based private equity funds (that have never been in CEE before) eyes the CEE region (mainly Czech Republic) as the interesting enough to spend the capital here. Regarding the new deals that we have in the pipeline, yes, the big deals over €100m have returned to our market place, we are working currently on three EUR 100 mio deals in senior loan size and we will be happy to share this information once the deals are completed. “In the past years 2009-2012, we have seen the exit of many competing foreign banks in the Czech market place. At the moment, local banks, including CSOB, are really active and fully capable of providing loans to local clients. “Some banks that used to be in the Czech Republic in 2008-2012 aren’t here any more, but I believe that this is just a temporary situation, with foreign backed banks re – entering the marketplace.” “In regards to the next six months, I think there will be financing, as we haven’t stopped so far and we wont in the latter half of 2013. “For rest of 2013, CSOB will be more selective with their lending, concentrating on industries that have remained resilient through the crisis, for example the TELCO, food, water utilities and energy sectors. “In areas such as the automotive and machinery, we will analyse each company independently from the market, as those areas have started to feel the effects of the crunch. “In two years time, CSOB will be even stronger. Throughout the crisis we never closed our business; we kept going, and keep enough sources for providing new loans as CSOB loanto-deposit ratio stands at 70% and CSOB Tier 1 capital adequacy ratio is at healthy 11.71% end of 2012. We can honestly say that during one of the worst recessions in decades, CSOB stayed open for business, when other did not. I think it’s a great accolade to the strength of the bank.

Ivan Meloun, Director Ceskoslovenska obchodni banka, a.s. Acquisition and Leveraged Finance Radlicka 333/150 150 57 Praha 5 T +420 224 114 393 E imeloun@csob.cz www.csob.cz

WINNER

UK - IP ADVISORY OF THE YEAR, Coller IP

An increasing number of companies are investing in IP and are recognising that it is a valuable asset. We understand however that achieving a successful IP investment, sale or licensing deal is a challenging process where specialist skills, networks and relationships are required. Coller IP provides commercial advice, due diligence, professional patent and trade mark services and guidance for those wishing to secure a deal or gain market access. We work closely with the boards of all types of organisations to support their decision-making. Our combination of strategic legal, technical and commercial expertise is proving invaluable to clients in both the private and public sectors, whether they are established corporates, investors, new start-ups or Government enterprises. Our strategists are experienced and globally reknown. Recognising the growing importance of intellectual property as a business asset, we offer independent IP valuations and evaluation of IP at all levels from initial assessment through to full due diligence. We offer a very different approach to most other companies. With us, you can be sure that you have a firm view as to the basis for your business decisions whether you are planning to invest in an enterprise, acquire it, sell it, restructure, develop a product, settle a dispute, or prepare for a major event such as an IPO, M&A or insolvency.

In order to grow, companies often wish to acquire IP assets. Coller IP identifies targets through its networks and uses a flexible approach to secure a successful IP transaction and transfer of assets. Our clients say: â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have recently had cause to seek advice with regards to IP, to support a large initiative. The participants in the initiative require a return on the funding they are putting into this development, and the mechanisms are complex and potentially onerous to our company. Coller IP provided invaluable support to my company; they were very quick to understand the technology, its application, the potential future market it might generate, and were able to advise my company on the most appropriate, low risk solutions to providing the participants with a return they found acceptable.â&#x20AC;? Richard Davies, Commercial Manager, Fugro GEOS Limited. We welcome contact from companies and individuals that own IP and wish to protect and develop it or who wish to reap rewards from IP investment by successfully trading IP, negotiating a sale or purchase or completing a licensing deal.

Coller IP T +44 870 402 1611 E jmaguire@collerip.com

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

UK - LEAD CORPORATE FINANCE ADVISOR OF THE YEAR – CONVEX CAPITAL

I am delighted to receive external recognition for the results we have achieved. The past 12 months has seen Convex close a number of cross-border transactions, all with stellar results. The most important measure for me is that our clients are so delighted with the outcome that they naturally become friends for life. We advise entrepreneurs on how to maximise and realise the value of the equity in their business. How? We like to think differently, when you find yourself following conventional wisdom it’s time to think twice. You can win big by seeing things others daren’t. We know that a deal is a game of incomplete information, it’s not chess it’s poker. We never make assumptions, it’s better to find out than suppose. We believe that success in almost all pursuits involves a deep understanding of people, often in terms of competition and co-operation. We believe opportunity lies in the future not in the past. We believe strategy and tactics are paramount, we don’t like process and embrace serendipity. We are creative: everything we do is bespoke, tailored to a set of unique circumstances. Everything we do is the best it can possibly be. Our Information Memoranda are famous for creativity, originality and impact. Buyers and investors anticipate receiving a Convex document. We are focused: this is what we do, this is all we do. There is no competition for resources, our focus is on our clients 100% of the time. As Partners we have individually built and sold businesses, we know a whole lot more than just the numbers.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013 93

Our Partners and all of the Team like to take a personal responsibility for our part in our clients success. In the past 12 months all of transactions have involved buyers and investors from outside the UK. Our analysts undertake global research projects on every deal to identify the very best suitors for our clients, wherever they may be in the world.

Neil Worsley, Managing Partner

This award winning transaction involved selling our Swedish based client to a Dutch based acquirer.

Convex Capital LLP Bass Warehouse, Castle Street, Manchester, M3 4LZ

Competing interest included companies in France, USA and the Far East.

T 0161 819 2500

I think that provides a flavour of just how small the world has become. Our pipeline of prospects and the number of live transactions has increased by more than 50% when compared to this time last year. Overall levels of client confidence appears to higher, which is encouraging shareholders to explore their options. It’s also worth remembering that not all sectors are struggling. We actively seek growing businesses in growing markets, as these businesses will all be desirable to investors and acquirers. Our team is everything. We believe in incentives. Everyone here is remunerated according to his or her performance. If we don’t achieve what our clients want . . . . we don’t get paid. We create our own luck, the good player gets lucky more often than the bad player. Redoubling efforts in every area of our business. We can’t be complacent. Resting on our laurels is not a core value at Convex.

F 020 7240 5780 www.convexcap.com

WINNER

RUSSIA - LEADING LAWYER OF THE YEAR -Â gowlings.com/thesecret DAVID AYLEN, PARTNER -Â GOWLING INTERNATIONAL INC.

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David Aylen is the resident Managing Partner of Oxford University, Said School of Business, at Russiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New Economic School (NES) and at the Centre for Gowlings Russia/CIS. With a 20-year history in Russia, montrĂŠal r ottawa r toronto r hamilton r waterloo region r calgary r vancouver r beijing r moscow r International Legal Studies based in Salzburg. Gowlings is one of the top rated IP Specialty firms based in Moscow. David is a regular committee member within the International Trademark Association (INTA). In Five years ago David moved from Canada to Moscow 1999, David was appointed by INTA to the Board of with a clear mandate to facilitate business for clients Governors for the Brand Names Education Foundation looking to set up in Russia, one of the BRIC countries. (BNEF) where he served a three-year term. In 2009, he Since then he has never looked back. Under his was elected by INTA as a Vice-Chair of the Alternative leadership, Gowlings Russia/CIS has seen substantial Dispute Resolution Committee. Presently, David is growth. Most of their clients are either United States the only INTA-certified ADR expert for Russia. or EU law firms looking for help and guidance for their clients or to multinationals seeking to establish a foothold in Russia. David is not a newcomer to the IP arena. Armed with degrees in Engineering and Law, he began his practice in Canada in 1981. His entire professional career has been dedicated to intellectual property with a focus on patent and trademark litigation and prosecution. Since joining the Moscow office his practice has further expanded into portfolio management and patent monetization â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a topic in respect of which he has recently lectured at

While in Canada from 1981 to 2008, David was a member of the Ontario Advocatesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Society and was an active participant on its Committee on Intellectual Property Litigation for several years. In that same time frame he was a founding member on the Intellectual Property Litigation Committee for the Canadian Bar Association which is credited with the creation of the annual Federal Court Judges Dinner.

london r gowlings.com

David Aylen Partner Gowlings 11 Gogolevsky boulevard Moscow 119019 Russia T +7-495-787-2070 www.gowlings.com

He is certified by the Law Society in Ontario as a Specialist in Intellectual Property (Patents, Trademarks, Copyright).

WINNER

BELGIUM - CONTRACT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, DEBLOCKLAW

Our strong international presence is built on extensive experience of working with clients on complex legal issues. In short we offer straightforward assistance in solving a problem. With a selective team of friends and partners worldwide, we provide advice of the highest quality to clients around the world.

As an independent law firm, we are able to guarantee our clients a personal approach. For us the clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interest is central. We provide high quality support and the prompt follow-up of the clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business.

Over the years, we have designed and built our business around bringing a personal service and added value to the client.

WHAT WE DO Our firm deals with the following fields of the law:

The practice exists since 1986. We are based in the port of Antwerp, diamond centre to the world and located right in the heart of Europe, one hour from London, Paris, Milan or Berlin and connect easily with the USA, Africa or the Middle East.

We work hard to achieve concrete results. The intervention of the lawyer must bring a tangible benefit for the client.

Ĺ&#x201D; Ĺ&#x201D; Ĺ&#x201D; Ĺ&#x201D; Ĺ&#x201D; Ĺ&#x201D; Ĺ&#x201D; Ĺ&#x201D;

$POUSBDU MBX *OUFSOBUJPOBM -JUJHBUJPO "SCJUSBUJPO BOE .FEJBUJPO -BCPVS -BX $PNQBOZ MBX $POTUSVDUJPO MBX -JBCJMJUZ BOE *OTVSBODF $PNNFSDJBM 1SBDUJDF %FCU $PMMFDUJPO

DEBLOCK LAW OFFICE Bourlastraat 3 2000 Antwerpen BELGIUM t. + 32 (0)3 206 22 55 f. + 32 (0)3 206 22 50 info@deblocklaw.com www.deblocklaw.com

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013 95

WINNER

LUXEMBOURG - COMMERCIAL BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - DSM DI STEFANO MOYSE AVOCATS A LA COUR THE FIRM: DSM Di Stefano Moyse law firm offers a seamless service to its clients with comprehensive and responsive advice and action. The firm’s consistent focus on excellence and responsiveness has earned DSM an international reputation as a “domestic firm offering top quality work.” (Legal 500, 2009). “DSM…handles corporate, commercial, tax and regulatory issues… Mario Di Stefano is highly recommended” (Legal 500, 2012) and “he operates…to the highest standards.” (Legal 500, 2013).

targeted recruitment of high-profile, multi-lingual lawyers. In addition, the partners are recognised experts in commercial law and M&A, corporate and structured finance, tax and dispute resolution. Global Yet Local Many firms claim to be international, but few can rival our multilingual team with our five global legal networks. (ALFA International, Association of European Lawyers, International Business Law Consortium, State Capital Group, EALG)

DSM DI STEFANO MOYSE have significant experience in Mergers & Acquisitions, joint ventures and other business combinations across a broad range of industries. Representing buyers and sellers, we combine business expertise with legal advice of the highest caliber, creating added value for our clients. We work with companies across the spectrum of industry, whilst remaining at the cutting edge of legal and regulatory developments. Our team of multi-lingual legal experts specializes in structuring and executing complex cross-border transactions. Taking Care Of The Detail Our legal team understands the importance of detail, whether it is a matter of incorporating special purpose vehicles, equity offerings and listings, joint venture agreements, or corporate re-organisations and restructurings through a Luxembourg holding company. High Profile Lawyers DSM’s multi-specialist approach, within one of the world’s major financial centres, has been made possible by the

Mario Di Stefano DSM DI STEFANO MOYSE Avocats à la Cour 2a, boulevard Joseph II L-1840 Luxembourg B.P. 2648 L-1026 Luxembourg T +352 262 562 1 E mdistefano@dsmlegal.com

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

GREECE - M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR -Â ELIAS PARASKEVAS ATTORNEYS Singled out as the only Greek law firm ever listed in Financial Timesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; â&#x20AC;&#x153;Most Innovative 50 European Law Firmsâ&#x20AC;? (2007-ranked 24th), Elias Paraskevas Attorneys holds true to its hallmark: the development of innovative legal minds that bring commercial awareness and add value to clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; transactions, with unwavering integrity. Established in 1933 by the widely referred to as the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dean of Greek Lawyersâ&#x20AC;? Elias Paraskevas, the firm is run today by Dimitris Paraskevas, a top-rated lawyer with international acclaim and former Secretary for Privatisation, who envisioned and paved the way to its international growth. Paraskevas is the only Greek law firm with a branch in London and an affiliate in Monaco. Over the past decade our firm has advised more than 50 international banks and financial institutions and over 200 leading corporations, governments, international organisations, stateowned concerns, private foundations and ultra high net-worth individuals in a wide range of

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013 97

M&A, banking, finance, capital markets, corporate, restructuring, litigation, real estate and private DMJFOU NBUUFST FYDFFEJOH CJMMJPO JO WBMVF Our team of lawyers is highly qualified. In addition to their Greek qualifications, most of our lawyers have trained abroad; many have earned law degrees and post-graduate degrees from foreign universities and have a thorough understanding of the laws and practices of countries other than Greece. Their global background enables them to structure and negotiate cross-border business transactions and to document them in a style familiar to international lawyers and their clients. Their familiarity with foreign languages and cultures allows us to bridge cultural gaps and make clients feel comfortable in their Greek and international ventures. Faithful to the values of social responsibility, the firm is renowned for its commitment to pro bono work and philanthropic endeavours through the Elias Paraskevas Foundation.

Dimitris Paraskevas ELIAS PARASKEVAS ATTORNEYS Dimitris E. Paraskevas 7 Asklepiou Street, 10679 Athens Greece

1933

T +30 210 3610333 F +30 210 3645329 E dparaskevas@paraskevaslaw.com www.paraskevaslaw.com

WINNER

UK - IP & TRADEMARK LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, ELKINGTON AND FIFE LLP Elkington and Fife are very pleased to receive this award. We are a leading firm of patent and trade mark attorneys with a worldwide reputation. We have a substantial practice in relation to trade marks acting for a full range of clients from large multi-national companies through to SME’s and start-up companies. We have a wealth of expertise in trade mark clearance both in the UK and worldwide and the handling all aspects of UK, CTM, foreign and international applications. We also have substantial experience in relation to handling UK and CTM oppositions and Europe and worldwide trade mark disputes, with experience of handling cases up to the Boards of Appeal and the General Court. Work includes advice and liaison with Trading Standards offices regarding anti-counterfeiting matters. We also have a burgeoning domain name and dispute resolution practice. We handle work for a wide spectrum of clients including blue chip companies in the chemical

and pharmaceutical, telecommunications, IT, telecommunications, computer hardware and software, toy retail, automobile and engineering, medical and entertainment industries, entertainment and publishing. The department is happy to conduct a review of client’s trade mark portfolios. As a firm, we regularly punch far above our weight in terms of the quality of work and clientele. The partners and fee earners are acknowledged experts in their fields, many having worked previously in house in large multinational corporate IP departments, law firms or at the EPO. A consistently high standard of work is achieved by having a high degree of partner involvement in most work. The firm prides itself on giving high quality responsive advice which is also commercial in nature and geared to the needs of its clients. For us, our clients are paramount and we are happy to look at ways of fitting our service to our client’s individual requirements. We are not afraid to listen.

Mark Hiddleston Elkington and Fife T 01732 458881 F 07132 450346 E mark.hiddleston@elkfife.com www.elkfife.com

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

GERMANY - PRIVATE EQUITY LAWYER OF THE YEAR -Â FLORIAN AIGNER, AFR RECHTSANWĂ&#x201E;LTE AFR RechtsanwĂ¤lte was established in Munich in early 2007 by attorneys-at-law Florian Aigner, Florian Fischer and Ulrich Radlmayr as founding partners after having worked for a leading German tax and Private Equity law boutique for several years. In late 2007, the firm opened a Stuttgart branch with attorneys-at-law Dr. Roderich Fischer, Diethard Goerg and Martin Hunstein (each with several years of experience with Shearman & Sterling and Gleiss Lutz). The private equity and venture capital (PE) practice group of AFR has an outstanding reputation in the market, in particular for small- to mid-cap transactions. Given the size of the firm, the number and volume of transactions handled is far beyond average and can even be compared to German desks of international law firms in this particular market segment. The PE practice covers all aspects and stages of the transaction, starting with tax structure and due diligence and ending with day-today advice to portfolio companies. Industry publications have variously described AFRÂ´s partners as â&#x20AC;&#x153;enjoying an excellent standing for their M&A and PE work since the very beginningâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;clients praising the creativity, quickwittedness and readiness for action of the relatively young firmâ&#x20AC;?. In particular, PE Partner Florian Aigner has been singled out as â&#x20AC;&#x153;strong and creative negotiatorâ&#x20AC;?. Florian Aigner has an exceptional track-record in rendering combined transactional and tax advice in PE as well as VC transactions on buy-side as well as sell-side.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013 99

The firm currently has six partners and five associates and is focusing on legal and tax transaction advice, in particular in the following areas: Ĺ&#x201D; Advising financial investors and strategists with regard to the acquisition and sale of companies (focusing on small- to mid-cap) Ĺ&#x201D; Advising single- and multi-family-offices with regard to the acquisition and sale of companies and alternative investments as well as tax oriented asset allocation and structuring Ĺ&#x201D; "EWJTJOH NFEJVN TJ[FE BOE GBNJMZ SVO DPNQBOJFT JO TBMF and acquisition processes, in particular within the scope of companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s succession Ĺ&#x201D; .BOBHFNFOU JO DBTF PG -#0 .#0 TUSVDUVSFT NBOBHFS funds, sellers) Ĺ&#x201D; 7FOUVSF $BQJUBM JOWFTUNFOUT QSF TFFE FBSMZ BOE MBUF TUBHF in particular serial entrepreneurs and business angels Ĺ&#x201D; *OTPMWFODZ DPSQPSBUF BOE UBY BEWJDF JO TQFDJBM TJUVBUJPOT Ĺ&#x201D; Acquisition financing (including alternative financing instruments) Ĺ&#x201D; 5BY BOE ĹŁOBODJBM QSPEVDUT BOE UBY TUSVDUVSJOH The firmÂ´s approach can be characterized by highly personal and pragmatic approach, extreme responsiveness and high flexibility. Due to the firmÂ´s lean structures, AFRÂ´s clients enjoy a very close and dedicated personal contact to the lawyers working on the deal (â&#x20AC;&#x153;know your lawyerâ&#x20AC;?). On the international front, AFR has a reliable Best-Friends-Network of renowned law firms - what is even more important - singular outstanding lawyers which rank among the best in their respective field of expertise - in the whole of Europe, South-East-Asia and on the American continent.

AFR RechtsanwĂ¤lte MĂśhlstraĂ&#x;e 2 D 81675 MĂźnchen T +49 89 38 66 60-0 F +49 89 38 66 60-100 www.afr-legal.de

WINNER

ITALY - INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT FIRM OF THE YEAR, FOUR PARTNERS S.R.L. & FOUR PARTNERS ADVISORY SIM S.P.A. Four Partners, founded in 2007, is an independent financial advisory firm dedicated to entrepreneurial and/or private families owning and managing a large and complex wealth. Since 2009 Four Partners is a fully regulated entity under the supervision of Consob and Bank of Italy. Four Partners assist clients in defining and executing the investment strategy either for their global wealth or for a part of it. Often Four Partners acts as sounding board for the client vis-à-vis all matters (not just financial) that fall into the strategic or operational management that clients runs on their wealth. Our differentiating factors are: Technical analysis and methodology: Four Partners always adopts an integrated approach by merging/ cross-checking the relevant know-how and experience of all its capabilities to perform its analysis and reach its recommendations, hence to better serve the client. Pivotal role of client as opposed to request for “delegation of power”: Four Partner’s scope of work is to put clients in the best position to take executive decisions and to be ensured that execution follows and respects their strategic decisions. Operating arm for a holistic supervision of the wealth: even if focused on only one type of service, Four Partners is always ready, upon client’s request, to switch perspective to an enlarged part if not all of the client’s wealth.

Shield for the client in scouting opportunities on the market: confidentiality and independence make Four Partner’s action on the market anonymous (difficult to know who Four Partners is acting for). Focus on long term relationship with each client: what really matters is the trust and ongoing activity with the client to create value for the client’s wealth. Area of expertise: Corporate and real estate business: financial planning, investment return analysis, M&A (deal sourcing and execution), Equity and Debt Capital Markets (deal analysis and structuring), corporate restructuring, leveraging on deep local connections. Liquid assets: portfolio modeling and construction, securities selection, ongoing management of asset managers, risk budget control and allocation. Risk Management: proprietary research and development of tools to enact the RM as a decision making variable both for the entire wealth as well as specific asset classes. Family wealth integration: ongoing assessment of correlation among all asset classes, optimization of global investment strategy depending on client’s variable focus on growth and preservation, likewise family governance and generational planning.

Four Partners S.r.l. & Four Partners Advisory SIM S.p.A. Via Senato, 12 - 20121 Milano Tel: 0236594500 Fax: 0236594531 E-mail: segreteria@fourpartners.it

WINNER

GERMANY - PRODUCT LIABILITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - FRIEDRICH GRAF VON WESTPHALEN & PARTNER Prof. Dr. Tobias Lenz is an attorney and partner in the renowned corporate law firm Friedrich Graf von Westphalen & Partner, and has almost 20 years of professional experience as legal counsel. In addition to being an expert for product liability law, he is also known for his expertise in insurance law, a subject which he studied for his doctorate. He is professor for international business law and the head of the liability and insurance law at the Rheinische Fachhochschule Cologne. The FGvW law firm is a corporate law firm that consults and maintains excellent relationships with major international corporations as well as numerous midsized companies. The law firm has offices in Freiburg and Cologne, where Dr. Lenz is in charge of the team for insurance law. He is supported by his partner Carsten Laschet and six additional associates: Mike Weitzel, Antje Clausmeyer, Martin Pütz, Dr. Julia Schmitz, Dr. Hanna Schmidt and Dr. Michael Fortmann, who also specialize in various fields of the law and therefore offer and guarantee a particularly extensive legal consulting scope, which ranges from out-of-court settlements to complex transactions, damage monitoring and litigation.

Dr. Lenz is not only considered an experienced expert for product liability law, but especially for D&O insurance and litigation pertaining to insurance law. As a result, his clients are not only major industrial insurance companies, but also re-insurers, which he provides with comprehensive legal services both within and outside the courtroom. His client list includes AIG Europe, Allianz and Zurich. Thanks to his long and varied experience as well as his excellent know-how of the subject matter, Dr. Lenz is equally known and appreciated by his clients and opponents alike as extremely competent and professional. He is particularly valued for his business perspective, which always keeps an eye on a reasonable cost-benefit ratio and practical results. A major benefit is also the law firm’s international locations, with offices in Brussels, Alicante, and Shanghai as well as some new cooperations with law firms in Istanbul and Sao Paulo. This makes clear that the representation of his clients’ interests also goes beyond German borders, especially when it comes to product liability and insurance law.

Prof. Dr. Tobias Lenz Attorney at law Friedrich Graf von Westphalen & Partner Agrippinawerft 24 Im Rheinauhafen, D-50678 Cologne, Germany T +49 221 20807-38 F +49 221 20807-60 E tobias.lenz@fgvw.de www.fgvw.de

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

ACQ 101 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

GE Capital

A LEADING EUROPEAN LEVERAGED FINANCE PROVIDER GE Capital is one of Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading arrangers of OHYHUDJHG ÂżQDQFH IRU PLG PDUNHW SULYDWH HTXLW\ WUDQVDFWLRQV :LWK D ORDQ SRUWIROLR LQ H[FHVV RI EQ (XURV DFURVV RYHU FRPSDQLHV *( &DSLWDO SURYLGHV ÂżQDQFLQJ VROXWLRQV IRU PDQDJHPHQW EX\RXWV DFTXLVLWLRQV JURZWK ÂżQDQFLQJ DQG UHFDSLWDOLVDWLRQV :LWK D WHDP RI SURIHVVLRQDOV H[SHULHQFHG LQ VWUXFWXULQJ DQG XQGHUZULWLQJ PLG PDUNHW WUDQVDFWLRQV ZH DUH DEOH WR H[HFXWH DW FRQVLGHUDEOH VSHHG IRU RXU FOLHQWV 8QOLNH DQ\ RWKHU OHQGHU ZH FDQ DOVR SURYLGH XQLTXH LQVLJKW LQ WKH GHDO SURFHVV E\ OHYHUDJLQJ *(ÂˇV \HDU LQGXVWULDO KHULWDJH DQG JOREDO IRRWSULQW

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<RX PD\ UHDFK XV DW 0RUH FRQWDFWV DQG UHIHUHQFHV DW www.gecapital.eu/leveraged.

WINNER

ITALY - LEADING COMPETITION LAWYER OF THE YEAR -Â GENNARO Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ANDRIA, DANDRIA STUDIO LEGALE Gennaro dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Andria is the chief executive of DANDRIA Studio Legale in Rome. His area of practice has been steadily expanding from antitrust and EU law to cover a broad range of commercial issues. Gennaro is a member of the Italian Bar and is admitted to the high courts. He obtained an LLM from Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College, London and previously practised with some of the leading law firms in Italy, the US, Germany and Austria. Gennaro has been steadily ranked in Chambers Europe and Legal500, and received the Client Choice 2013 Award for Competition from the International Law Office. DANDRIA Studio Legale was founded in 2011 and currently comprises seven fee earners. Contracts & Litigation and Antitrust & Regulation are key areas of practice, with its growing clientele primarily consisting of large and international corporations. The firm has developed unique skills in supporting the general counselâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s efforts towards better management of legal risk and cost control (Legal Management Consulting).

The firmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main strengths are its highly responsive approach and the transparency of its rates. Clients are provided with a dedicated extranet allowing realtime access to matter related information, including deadlines, appointments, documents, up-to-date billing data and even timesheets, as soon as they are created. Clients acknowledge that the firm usually contributes to developing the most appropriate strategies for complex matters.

DANDRIA Studio Legale Roma, Palazzo Valadier Piazza del Popolo, 18 P.IVA (VAT): IT02624290611 T + 39 06 367 12 437 F + 39 06 367 12 400 www.dandria.com

Examples of recent work include assisting easyJet in the successful challenge to Alitaliaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s monopoly on the Rome-Milan route, one of the busiest in Europe; acting for Lucchini S.p.A., a major steel producer, in the divestiture of its industrial subsidiary BFM to a foreign buyer; assisting two airlines in reaching a common understanding with the Italian Competition Authority concerning certain pricing practices (credit card fees); assisting Reckitt Benckiser in the sweeping Italian antitrust investigation into cosmetics and obtaining a court injunction for the violation of access rights; acting for Servola S.p.A., an Italian steel mill, in multimillion arbitration and court proceedings against its electricity supplier.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

ITALY - LITIGATION & DISPUTES LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - GIAMBRONE LAW - STUDIO LEGALE INTERNAZIONALE Giambrone Law is an award winning full service Italian law firm with Italian offices in Rome, Milan and Palermo and international offices in London, New York, Berlin and Tunis. Giambrone Law offer tailored legal services to businesses, corporations and private individuals with extensive expertise within the practice areas of Litigation & ADR, Corporate & Commercial, Real Estate and Tax, Private Client, Criminal Law and Sports and Entertainment. The key industry sectors where our lawyers operate are: Electricity, Nuclear & Renewables, Banking & Finance, Media, Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare, Construction & Engineering, Food, Farming & Land, Technology, Telecoms, Transport & Logistics, Public Sector, Travel & Leisure. As a mid-sized firm, our lawyers are able to invest time to understand our clients and their business. Our commitment is to achieve the best results possible and we do this through tailoring our legal services adapted around our client’s priorities and their requirements. Giambrone Law was founded by Managing Partner Avv. Gabriele Giambrone in 2004 and has grown to an impeccable as it has expanded to 7 international offices, employing more than 60 professionals worldwide.

ACQ 103 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

From the very first foundations, Giambrone Law has had a prestigious, international client base and reputation for excellence. Giambrone Law remain focused by staying at the forefront of many legal developments as they aim to stay at the top of the profession for Italian legal advisers. With a modern and cutting edge approach to legal industry sectors, Giambrone Law’s lawyers remain at the top of their legal profession and are regular commentators within the international press as key speakers on the Italian legal system. Some notable cases have included: Acting on behalf of a former Chief Superintendent of MET Police on a multi-million Euros Personal Injury claim Representing an English Venture Capital Group in the enforcement of a £262mln High Court Judgment in Italy against 4 stock-listed Italian PLCs Advising a wealthy investor in the acquisition of a £1,5mln island in Sicily Acting for a wealthy client in a cross-border Inheritance and Commercial £110mln dispute in proceedings brought in various EU and off-shore jurisdictions

Giambrone Law Via Giovanni Bonanno 122 90143 Palermo Italy T +39 091 743 4778 F +39 091 611 0952 E info@giambronelaw.com www.giambronelaw.com

WINNER

EUROPE - INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGY PLATFORM OF THE YEAR, Global Backoffice (GLOBAL PRIME PARTNERS) We are very happy to receive the award and it couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have come at a better time as Global Back Office is now looking to bring our products to market after to date primarily focusing on providing the web-based platform which handles the technology requirements of our partner firm Global Prime Partners Ltd (www. globalprimepartners.com), a boutique prime broker based in London. The original version of the software was launched in 2000 and the current 3rd generation is a complete redesign using contemporary web technologies that has now been in a live operational environment through two financial year ends. This has included the development of an accounting engine and general ledger; a financing module; collateral and margin reports as part of a risk module; a centralised counterparty module for compliance; a centralised security and market data module; a central rates and fees template engine which can drive fees, commissions, margin, and financing rates; a stock loan module; and a configurable client P&L module. We have integrated with DMA trading platforms, prime brokers, fund administrators, custodian banks and portfolio management systems.

In addition, we have built ancillary modules such as a customer relationship management (CRM) platform; a data transformation tool (which can convert and pass information between many different sources and destinations); and a dynamic reporting tool which can present existing data in meaningful and aesthetically pleasing ways. With the support of Global Prime, commercialisation of the application suite and our services has always been the plan once the solution reached a necessary state of maturity and that time has now arrived. Our tools are entirely proprietary and we currently have none of the aggregation of 3rd party products that is common in this space. Crucially the core of our well qualified team has been together since the beginning of the current rewrite. Our target market is broad and covers firms with similar business models to Global Primeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s as well as asset managers, day trading groups and family offices. A boutique broker might want the full offering whereas an online reporting interface with a few key reports and a dynamic group P&L module could suffice for a day trading group.

Doc Louw Head of Business Development LONDON 4th Floor 7 Old Park Lane W1K 1QR London United Kingdom

CAPE TOWN Unit 52 Roeland Square Drury Lane 8001, Cape Town South Africa

+44 (0) 207 3999 458 - UK Office +27 (0) 21 462 0979 - SA Office +27 (0) 79 091 2663 - SA Mobile +27 8802 1462 0979 - Int. Fax www.globalbackoffice.com

WINNER

- ASSET APPRAISER OF THE YEAR

Market Leaders in Asset Intelligence SA

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DAVID HAMPSON +44 (0) 7785 221 924 Email: david.hampson@go-dove.com ELAINE SHELLEY +44 (0) 7740 633 505 Email: elaine.shelley@go-dove.com

Annually we... : 30&6%' 07'3 (03.#- appraisals : '/'3#5' 07'3 +--+0/ in asset sales : "/&'35#,' 07'3 4#-' '7'/54 : !3#/4#%5 8+5* $69'34 +/ 220 countries

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Sectors Covered: : 44'5 #4'& Lending : #/,+/) #/& Insolvency : '#4+/) : 3+7#5' 26+59 : 03103#5+0/4

GoIndustry DoveBid is the global leader advising clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in the valuation and sale of industrial assets. Our highly skilled team provide a range of services for appraisal, audit and sale advice for any machinery & equipment, inventory, accounts receivable and intangible assets in 58 countries

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UK Offices: Birmingham | Bristol | Leeds | London E-mail: enquiries@go-dove.com

www.go-dove.com

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

RUSSIA - INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, GOWLINGS

discover the secret

Intellectual property legal services in Russia and the CIS

gowlings.com/thesecret (PHPMFWTLZ CPVMFWBSE r .PTDPX r r 3VTTJB montrĂŠal r ottawa r toronto r hamilton r waterloo region r calgary r vancouver r beijing r moscow r london r gowlings.com

WINNER

CHANNEL ISLANDS - LEADING ADVISORY (ACCOUNTANCY & AUDIT) -Â GRANT THORNTON LIMITED

With offices in Jersey and Guernsey, Grant Thornton Limited is one of the Channel Islandsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; leading accounting, tax and business advisory firms dedicated to serving the needs of privately held businesses, financial services and private clients. We offer a full range of audit, assurance, tax, and advisory services. As a member firm within Grant Thornton International we have access to member and correspondent firms in over 100 countries, offering our clients specialist local knowledge supported by international expertise and methodologies.

that they face, as is evident in the many long standing client relationships that we have developed.

We have been offering practical and strategic advice to all the key sectors in the Channel Islands for many years, and work closely with our clients to understand the specific issues

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ACQ105 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

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Cyril Swale Grant Thornton PO Box 313 Lefebvre House Lefebvre Street St Peter Port Guernsey GY1 3TF Kensington Chambers 46/50 Kensington Place St. Helier Jersey JE1 1ET DD +44 (0)1481 753416 E cyril.swale@gt-ci.com www.gt-ci.com

WINNER

UK - FORENSIC & INVESTIGATION ADVISORY OF THE YEAR -Â GRANT THORNTON UK LLP

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re growing our business so we can help you grow yours. Our Forensic and Investigation Services team is now one of the largest in the UK with over 100 specialists and a number of new Partners. Last year we worked on some of the most complex global disputes and investigations. We offer a joined up solution with a full range of investigation, forensic accounting and dispute resolution services supported by a full service digital forensics group (ISO certified). Our clients can access the knowledge and experience of 35,000 people in over 100 countries.

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grant-thornton.co.uk ÂŠ 2013 Grant Thornton UK LLP. All rights reserved. Grant Thornton UK LLP is a member firm within Grant Thornton International Ltd. Grant Thornton International Ltd and the member firms are not a worldwide partnership. Services are delivered independently by member firms. Full disclaimer available at grant-thornton.co.uk

WINNER

CZECH REPUBLIC - &25325$7( /$: ),50 2) 7+( <($5 *h5/,&+ &R DGYRNiWQt NDQFHOiĂ&#x161;U - ,3 /$: ),50 2) 7+( <($5 *h5/,&+ &R DGYRNiWQt NDQFHOiĂ&#x161;U - /,7,*$7,21 /$: ),50 2) 7+( <($5 *h5/,&+ &R DGYRNiWQt NDQFHOiĂ&#x161;U - 5($/ (67$7( /$: ),50 2) 7+( <($5 *h5/,&+ &R DGYRNiWQt NDQFHOiĂ&#x161;U The law office GĂ&#x153;RLICH & Co was founded on 1st February 2002. All members of the firm are experienced lawyers possessing outstanding professional expertise in various branches of law. Currently, the firm consists of lawyers who are supported by a qualified office staff. Besides, on a case to case basis, we would invite for cooperation many other external specialists and free-lance lawyers. This law firm is fully capable of offering legal services to both individuals and legal entities in almost all fields of civil and commercial law, all over the territory of the Czech Republic. We are capable of providing legal services in the Czech and English languages. In the event of cross-border transactions and litigation, this office hires its cooperating

international law offices as well as external foreign lawyers. Still, this Law Firm remains a purely Czech legal office free of any financial or other influence exerted by foreign and/ or local nationals. This allows the firm to provide its services in compliance with law, professionally and independently. Scope of Legal Services: Commercial Transactions Civil Law Intellectual Property Corporate Law and Business Law, Public Procurement Labour Law

Richard GĂźrlich, attorney at law GĂ&#x153;RLICH & Co PolitickĂ˝ch vÄ&#x203A;zĹ&#x2C6;ĹŻ 19, 110 00 Prague, Czech republic T +420222101591 F +420222101590

Real Estate

E info@akrg.cz

Litigation Insolvency

www.akrg.cz

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

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GERMANY

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WINNER

UK - BANKING & FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR -Â Hausfeld & Co LLP. Hausfeld & Co LLP is a leading claimant focused litigation practice, based in the City of London. We have a broad range of commercial litigation expertise, with particular experience in competiton law (particularly follow-on damages claims), financial services, consumer and human rights law, often with an international dimension. We currently act for hundreds of business claimants and individuals located throughout Europe and around the world who have incurred financial losses in a range of industries.

In appropriate cases, we work closely with our sister firm, Hausfeld LLP, headquartered in Washington D.C., with offices in San Francisco and Philadelphia. Our collaborative approach enables our clients to benefit from the extensive knowledge and expertise of both teams. This international capability, combined with close ties to other leading law firms in Europe, gives us the edge in tackling cross-jurisdictional disputes and negotiating global settlements.

We aim to achieve the best possible results for our clients through our practical and commercial approach, avoiding litigation where feasible, yet litigating robustly when necessary. In addition, our extensive experience of alternative litigation funding allows our clients maximum flexibility in terms of managing their exposure to costs risks. We are also â&#x20AC;&#x153;conflict-freeâ&#x20AC;?, enabling us to take on matters that other City law firms are conflicted from acting on, such as claims against financial institutions or banks.

Anthony Maton

ACQ 107 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

Lianne Craig

Hausfeld & Co. LLP 12 Gough Square London EC4A 3DW T (00 44) 20 7665 5000 F (00 44) 20 7665 5001

Nicola Boyle

WINNER

GERMANY - INTERNATIONAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - HERFURTH & PARTNER

Herfurth & Partner is an independent law firm with offices in Hannover, Göttingen and Brussels and specialises in national and international commercial and corporate law. The firm advises family-owned companies as well as multinationals and encompasses all legal issues relating to corporate law, financing, claims management, marketing, sales, distribution and commercial law, technology and real estate. International transactions are one of the firm’s core specialities. Herfurth & Partners has a number of interantional lawyers who have gained experience in companies and business law firms in Europe, USA and Asia. Herfurth is a member

of the ALLIURIS GROUP with 30 offices and 450 corporate lawyers within Europe, India, China and Brazil. Herfurth & Partners work for clients in many sectors, mainly in banks, insurance and financial services, technology (medical and health, nutrition, laser, information and communication, biotechnology, automotive, engineering), construction and real estate industry. Herfurth & Partner was established in 1990 by Ulrich Herfurth, co-founder and chairman of the Alliuris Group (www. herfurth.de). He is also the president of the association of family businesses in the state of Niedersachsen and holds a number of other offices.

HERFURTH & PARTNER RECHTSANWALTSGESELLSCHAFT MBH D-3O159 HANNOVER LUISENSTR. 5 T +49-511-3O7 56-O F +49-511-307 56-1O E info@herfurth.de www.herfurth.de

WINNER

GERMANY - ISOLVENCY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, HERMANN Rechtsanwälte Wirtschaftsprüfer Steuerberater HERMANN RWS is one of the leading German law firms for insolvency administration, insolvency law and restructuring. The firm advices business people as well as businesses and financial institutions in all aspects of insolvency, business law (including corporate, commercial law, competition and civil law), tax, labour law, real estate and construction law. HERMANN RWS offers a competent and multidisciplinary support to all parties involved in the insolvency proceedings including investors as well as other clients affected by business crisis. Especially the administration of insolvency presuppose an entrepreneur and profound understanding as well as the capability of finding a solution for all subjects on the basis of legal and practical knowledge, which might come out when national and international concern is acquired, operated or sold. The special focus is on well-targeted services and diligent consultancy in all areas of business life and in connection with corporate crises and insolvencies, also across borders. For many years, numerous professionals within the law firm have been closely involved as insolvency administrators with the

handling of insolvency proceedings and are thus familiar with all the matters accompanying insolvency. HERMANN RWS is therefore also able to offer competent assistance to its clients involved in, or concerned with, insolvency. The law firm’s outstanding expertise is based on thousands of successful proceedings. In 2012 HERMANN RWS was able to maintain its position as one of the leading insolvency practices in Germany. With the new German insolvency law debtor-in-possession proceedings became more favorable and a debt equity swap has newly introduced in German insolvency law as well. Here Mr. Ottmar Hermann was appointed as custodian in the case of Dura group, one of the first proceedings under the new legislation. Mr. Rainer M. Bähr was acting as custodian of Solarwatt AG, which included the first successful debt-equity swap under the new law. With offices located in the most important German business and financial centers and cooperation partners worldwide HERMANN RWS offers its clients suitable and appropriate solutions even in the most complex cases.

Ottmar Hermann Senior Partner HERMANN Rechtsanwälte, Wirtschaftsprüfer, Steuerberater Bleichstraße 2-4; 60313 Frankfurt am Main T +49 (0) 69 . 91 30 92 - 0 F +49 (0) 69 . 91 30 92 - 30 E frankfurt@hermann-law.com www.hermann-law.com

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

GERMANY - PRIVATE EQUITY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - HEYMANN & PARTNER Heymann & Partner was founded in April 2005. Today, we are 18 lawyers of which 9 are partners. Our partners can look back on long and successful careers in global law firms. Founding Heymann & Partner was not an act of necessity. Our intention was to work in a small, focused law firm – without bureaucracy and hierarchy but with high professionalism, effectiveness and efficiency. We collect first class aspiring professionals. To sum it up: “Simply good lawyers”. Clients have the alternative to either consult specialists from large law firms, who work on a high juristic level, or to engage the economic advisor who has a supreme insight and negotiating skills. We try to combine both. Our core practice areas are technology, corporate law, private equity, restructuring, outsourcing and intellectual property. In these areas we offer our clients comprehensive services. Nevertheless, we are not a “full service firm” and we have no ambition to be one. Therefore, we have a network of corresponding specialists which we consult where necessary and manage as would be the case in a large integrated firm.

ACQ 109 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

Since our establishment, Heymann & Partner has grown to a leading law firm in Germany in its core areas. This helped us to build up long-lasting and strong cooperations with first class law firms from abroad. This background allows us to advise clients in complex and demanding transactions. Examples in 2012 included exchange listed Tom Tailor acquisition of Bonita, e.on in various technology related transactions, Eterna in the issuance of a corporate bond under the new BaFin regulations, ACapital Partners on the acquisition of the Mustang Jeans Group, Morgan Stanley on the investment in DocuWare and restructurings and Atlantic Bridge on the acquisition of a German software company.

Heymann & Partner Rechtsanwälte

As a boutique we never forget that it is a privilege for us to advise our clients - and not the other way round. That shapes our way of work and our communication.

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Finally: We have been independent from the beginning. We are today. And we still will be tomorrow. Therefore we can focus on what is best for our clients.

Tel: +49 (69) 768063-14

60329 Frankfurt

Fax: +49 (69) 768063-15

More than a VDR Preparing for M&A Success in an Uncertain Environment By Philip Whitchelo, Vice President, Strategy & Product Marketing | www.intralinks.com

In 2012, M&A dealmakers faced a tough environment â&#x20AC;&#x201C; globally the total number of announced deals declined by 6% from 2011 and was 16% below the 2007 peak. The total disclosed value of announced deals was down only 2% from 2011, giving some comfort, but was still 40% below that of 2007. Many investment banks reduced employee numbers to cope with the lower volume of work and are placing an increasing emphasis on the efficient use of resources to win and manage deals. Despite the difficult conditions for M&A, there are some reasons to be cautiously optimistic. One reason is the results of the latest Intralinks Deal Flow Indicator (DFI). The DFI tracks early stage M&A (sell-side M&A mandates and deals reaching due diligence) across the world on average six months prior to announcement, and provides a unique leading indicator of global M&A activity. The Q1 2013 DFI showed an 11% year-on-year increase, matching the level of growth seen in Q4 2012. The other reason is a return to big-ticket dealmaking in Q1. During a two-week period in February, an estimated US$109bn worth of M&A transactions was announced - nearly half of all deals in the quarter. This torrent of headlining deals involved the captains of various industries including Heinz, Dell, NBCUniversal, Liberty Global and US Airways. With the potential for a return to M&A-led growth combining with continuing uncertainty and volatility in many economies, markets and currencies, those companies and their advisers that are well prepared and ready to execute deals will be the ones that are best placed to quickly react to and take advantage of opportunities that may arise. These include organisations looking to sell an asset, to raise capital, or to make an acquisition. Preparedness and speed of execution are amongst the critical factors for success in rapidly shifting market conditions, where opportunities to close deals may not last long.

A Virtual Data Room (VDR) is the optimum solution for the controlled exchange of documents between parties involved in a transaction. A VDR offers the ability to share confidential information and collaborate with deal participants on key deal tasks in a secure and auditable yet easy-to-access online space, while allowing information owners to maintain full control over who has access to their content and what they can do with it. The functionality and service offered by the largest and most experienced VDR providers could make the difference between a trouble-free and rapidly executed transaction and one which fails to deliver the expected outcome. Essential features to consider when choosing a VDR provider include the following: J Rapid setup. Time is usually of the essence when provisioning a VDR. The quicker you can get the data room open and operational with all documents uploaded, users set up, and access rights assigned, the sooner the process of information sharing can begin. Look for: -

the ability to create a VDR from a selection of pre-built templates, specific to your deal type;

UK -

a management tool that allows you to drag and drop multiple files and entire folders and sub-folders directly a local hard drive, network drive, CD, USB drive, or - VDRfrom PROVIDER OF THE YEAR, INTRALINKS email attachment into the VDR; -

a VDR which allows the upload and protection of a management allows you to drag andnative drop ® Officetool andthat PDF documents in their Microsoft multiple files and folders andtosub-folders directly forms without the entire need to convert degraded file from a local drive,ornetwork drive,key CD,document USB drive, or formats suchhard as TIFF PDF, where email attachment into the VDR; content can be lost;

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a VDR which allows thefiles upload protection of the ability to rearrange and and folders simply by ® Office and PDF documents in their native Microsoft dragging and dropping and automatic re-indexing; forms without the need to convert to degraded file - formats the ability to quickly add to the VDR such as TIFF or new PDF,single whereusers key document or bulk upload content can beteams lost; of users via a simple spread sheet; and - the ability to rearrange files and folders simply by - dragging the abilityand to add tags and fields to your dropping andcustom automatic re-indexing; documents to help classify and organize information in - the ability to quickly add new single users to the VDR ways that are meaningful to your organization and to or bulk upload teams of users via a simple spread VDR users. sheet; and Security. The security and confidentiality of critical business -information the ability add tags and custom fields Look to your into a transaction are paramount. for a documents to help classify and organize information provider who offers a multi-layer security model coveringin ways thatrights are meaningful to your organization and to information management, multi-factor access and VDR users.controls, data encryption at the highest authentication possible document locking of and protection, Security.level The (256-bit), security and confidentiality critical business prevention informationofin print-screen a transactionand arescreen-grabbing paramount. Looksoftware, for a document watermarking, password sharing prevention, provider who offers a multi-layer security model covering IP address locking, secure global data centres, on-demand information rights management, multi-factor access and customer audits, personnel andatcompliance authentication controls, datasecurity, encryption the highestwith recognised international audit standards SSAE 16 possible level (256-bit), document lockingsuch and as protection, SOC 2, SAS Type II, and 21screen-grabbing CFR Part 11. software, prevention of 70 print-screen and document watermarking, password sharing Availability. Minimum 99.5% uptime, basedprevention, on multiple IP addressdata locking, secure data centres, redundant centres withglobal the highest level of on-demand customer audits, personnel security, and compliance with fault tolerance. recognised international audit standards such as SSAE 16 Optimal user70 experience and use. SOC 2, SAS Type II, and 21 ease CFR of Part 11.An intuitive, familiar user interface based on a Microsoft® Windows® Availability. 99.5% uptime, context-sensitive based on multipleaction Explorer lookMinimum and feel with right-click redundant data centres with the highest level of menus, quick navigation, and comprehensive full-text fault tolerance. document search functionality including Boolean, fuzzy, and complex allows find Optimal usersearches experience andusers easetoofrapidly use. An intuitive, ® information. Check for the ability to allow users to open® and familiar user interface based on a Microsoft Windows view protected Microsoft Office and PDF files in their original Explorer look and feel with right-click context-sensitive action file formats (not degradedand TIFF or PDF). Lookfull-text for secure menus, quick navigation, comprehensive ® ® access from mobile devices such as an iPad , iPhone document search functionality including Boolean, fuzzy,, ® smartphone, well as laptop or PC. A user BlackBerry and complexor searches allowsasusers to rapidly find interface should be for available in alltothe world’s information. Check the ability allow usersmajor to open and languages, withMicrosoft integrated translation services keyoriginal view protected Office and PDF files infor their deal documents. file formats (not degraded TIFF or PDF). Look for secure ® ® access from mobile devices such as an iPad , iPhone Intelligence and reporting. The provider should offer , ® or smartphone, as well as laptop or PC. A user BlackBerry detailed reports to enable you to gain valuable intelligence interface should be available in all the world’sthe major regarding user activity in the VDR, including level of languages, withand integrated translation services for key interest in files folders of documents between users, deal documents. which frequent keywords users are searching for, and an

audit trail of how and when user orshould group of users Intelligence and often reporting. The a provider offer have accessed Look for an export of detailed reportsor toviewed enable documents. you to gain valuable intelligence ® enable additional reports to user Microsoft Excel regarding activity in thetoVDR, including theanalysis level of and formatting. interest in files and folders of documents between users, which frequent keywords users are searching for, and an audit trail of how often and when a user or group of users have accessed or viewed documents. Look for an export of reports to Microsoft Excel® to enable additional analysis and formatting.

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Built-in Question and Answer (Q&A) management functionality. Make sure to have the ability to manage the entire Q&A process online within the VDR, thereby eliminating time-intensive and error-prone spreadsheet based tracking. Key functionality should include the prioritization of bidder to ensure they are answered Built-in Question andquestions Answer (Q&A) management in order of importance or aging, automatic of the functionality. Make sure to have the abilityrouting to manage questions Subjectonline Matterwithin Experts, response deadlines and entire Q&Atoprocess the VDR, thereby automatic alerts, the automated real time exchange of eliminating time-intensive and error-prone spreadsheet questions and answers backed up by a full history of based tracking. Key functionality should include the each question thread, and the ability totoquickly the status prioritization of bidder questions ensuremonitor they are answered of order all questions with at-a-glance dashboards. in of importance or aging, automatic routing of questions to Subject Matter Experts, deadlines Global, multi-lingual support. Lookresponse for dedicated, locallyand automatic alerts, the automated realsupport time exchange of based project managers to provide for the entire questions answers by a full in history of each transactionand from start tobacked finish, aup presence all major question thread, and the ability to quickly monitoropen” the status financial centres on every continent, an “always of all questions with at-a-glance dashboards. 24x7x365 help desk able to answer calls in all major languages, and multiple supportLook options Global, multi-lingual support. for including dedicated,phone, locally email and online live chat. based project managers to provide support for the entire transaction from to finish, in a presence in all major Compliance andstart auditability case of post-transaction financial centres on every continent, an “always disputes. A real-time audit trail within the VDR isopen” vital as 24x7x365 help desk able in all for major the deal progresses, with to fullanswer versioncalls histories replaced languages, support options documents and and multiple the ability to roll back andincluding access phone, email and online live chat. accidentally deleted files. It should include a DVD archive containing a full audit trail,inuser activity and document Compliance anddeal auditability case of post-transaction access logs, reports, Q&A threads, document disputes. A real-time audit trail within the VDRversion is vital as histories, as well as files the VDR which the deal progresses, withand full folders version in histories for–replaced may be used in legal proceedings to help documents and the ability to roll back andback-up access claims of disclosure for disputes. accidentallyand deleted files. It should include a DVD archive containing a full deal trail,or user document Pricing. Pricing on a audit per page peractivity MB/GBand basis, simple access logs,based reports, threads, document pricing tiers onQ&A the expected volume of version data, and no histories, well asfor files and folders in the VDR –content which additionalas charges deleting and re-uploading may bean used in legal tolimit) help -back-up claims of (within agreed totalproceedings data storage so you can delete disclosure andpages for disputes. and re-upload as many times as necessary while building VDRon (within agreed net page count Pricing. the Pricing a peran page or per MB/GB basis,limit), simple without having to worry about costs volume spiralling of and control. pricing tiers based on the expected of out data, no additional charges for deleting and re-uploading content (within an agreed total data storage limit) - so you can delete and re-upload pages as many times as necessary while building the VDR (within an agreed net page count limit), without having to worry about costs spiralling out of control.

Philip Whitchelo Vice President, Strategy & Product Marketing Philip Whitchelo For information, visit www.morethanavdr.com. Vicemore President, Strategy & Product Marketing

For more information, visit www.morethanavdr.com.

Microsoft, Windows and Excel are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries. Blackberry is a registered trademark of Blackberry, Inc. in the United States and other countries. iPad and iPhone are registered trademarks of Apple, Inc. in the United States and other countries.

WINNER

AUSTRIA - M&A FIRM OF THE YEAR - IMAP M&A TREUHAND GMBH IMAP – Global Mergers & Acquisitions Advisory IMAP is a global network of independent investment banking and M&A firms with over 500 senior experts located in more than 30 countries throughout North and South America, Western and Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Asia. These firms share common values and principles, reinforced by rigorous standards and qualifications to ensure unmatched service, quality and unequaled results. IMAP offers an exceptional combination of global breadth and local depth to the client transaction. Merger and acquisition clients from every corner of the globe, in all segments and classifications turn to IMAP for professional advice. With a rich history of innovation, collaboration and achievement, IMAP advisors work hand-in-hand to optimize the service and success for every client we represent. In Austria, IMAP is one of the leading mid-market M&A advisory firms and is nominated capital market coach of the Vienna stock exchange (VSE) for midmarket listings. As independent and owner-managed advisory firm, we are specialized in the design and execution of world-wide enterprise transactions in the middle-market. We see the essence of our work as a contribution to inspiration and realization at worldclass level.

We perform transaction services for our clients for local and cross-border company mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, IPOs and international equity capital-raising and orchestrate succession planning. Our service portfolio includes comprehensive analysis and strategic merger services as well as execution and assignment completion primarily in the manufacturing, service, technology and consumer goods industry. In collaboration with our clients we verify and plan strategies, risks and opportunities as well as feasibility, synergies and integration. Based on our international track record we are a preferred partner of owner families, corporate executives, investors and group subsidiaries. Engagement, confidentiality and competence are the principles that have guided us at the execution of client projects around the globe. IMAP’s strength and premium service quality continue to allow IMAP to offer significant value for clients under any type of market conditions. IMAP M&A Treuhand continued to stand out in 2012 and ranked No. 2 in Austria for completed USBOTBDUJPOT XJUI WBMVFT VQ UP 64 NJMMJPO (source: Thomson Reuters).

Dr. Heinz Brasic Managing Partner IMAP M&A Treuhand GmbH Donau Business Center, Top 531 Handelskai 388 A-1020 Vienna Austria Tel: 43 1 7982770-0 E : heinz.brasic@imap.co.at www.imap.co.at

FINLAND

WINNER

- BOUTIQUE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, KAUTTU & CO ATTORNEYS LTD

INDIVIDUAL SERVICE IS AT THE HEART OF PROVIDING EFFECTIVE LEGAL CONSULTATION Being a boutique law firm, we aim to assist clients by

and managing risks arising from intellectual property issues.

delivering the quality of professional service expected

We have represented corporate clients, institutional investors,

from large firms, but with greater flexibility, efficiency

individuals and others in acquisitions and other transactions

and responsiveness. We fully realize that in order to be

involving the purchase or sale of businesses, as well as in

effective and to offer real value, we must be able to react

related financing and taxation matters.

to your legal needs and to make ourselves available whenever required. We pay special attention to getting to know and understand your businesses and operations rather than simply pointing out problems.

Our focus is truly global. Kauttu & Co has established professional relationships with law firms across Europe, in North America, and in Asia. In the Northern European region, we are able to serve clients through a network of

We have extensive experience in serving the business

law firms. As these markets become increasingly integrated,

community regarding various aspects of business law in

this network availability is of particular importance.

an efficient and cost-effective manner. We have worked

Our practices:

KAUTTU & CO ATTORNEYS LTD

- corporate law and corporate governance

Bulevardi 6, FI-00120 Helsinki Finland.

- mergers and acquisitions

T +358 9 3157 4100

provided corporate law services to our clients and advised

- technology and intellectual property

F +358 9 3157 4110

them on corporate governance issues. We have helped

- finance and venture capital

E offices@kauttu.fi

high-tech companies in developing tomorrow’s technology

- international taxation

www.kauttu.fi

on commercial transactions and international operations in a diverse collection of industries, including technology, energy, manufacturing and transportation. We have

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

UK - AIM ADVISORY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - Kerman & Co LLP - ENERGY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - Kerman & Co LLP - SPORT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - Kerman & Co LLP

Kerman & Co LLP are delighted to receive three ACQ Law Awards 2013 which reflect the successful year the Firm has enjoyed. AIM For the fourth consecutive year Kerman & Co LLP’s Alternative Investment Market (“AIM”) team has been recognised by ACQ as leaders in this market. Despite the economic downturn the team has worked on a steady stream of transactions for its listed clients on AIM and the ISDX Growth Market (formerly PLUS). The Firm advises clients with international interests in jurisdictions including the USA, Russian Federation, Australia, Philippines, Peru and Colombia and many African countries. These growth clients see AIM as an attractive option for potential investors. The Firm’s performance in the basic materials sector, and in relation to oil and gas, has remained strong. The Firm has acted on admissions, placings, acquisitions, and other equity and debt raising transactions including the increased use of convertible debt instruments, off-take arrangements and royalties (reflecting the difficult market conditions). Kerman & Co LLP have recently acted on the listing of Northcote Energy Ltd (on-shore oil and gas, North America) and Dekel Oil Public Limited (a palm oil business based in the Ivory Coast). In addition the company has undertaken secondary issues for a number of existing long-standing clients (including West African Minerals Corp., Top Level Domain Holdings Limited, Victoria Oil & Gas Plc, Equatorial Palm Oil Plc) as well as advising clients on significant and wide ranging M&A activity. Energy Kerman & Co LLP’s award winning energy team is a well regarded and diversified practice serving the needs of its clients in the global energy industry. It has been particularly successful in advising clients listed on AIM. The firm is consistently ranked in the top three for the number of its oil and gas clients on AIM (Hemscott/Adviser Rankings Limited). The team has advised on a broad range of areas from the exploration and exploitation of oil and gas and other fossil fuels such as anthracite coal; and uranium to developing and implementing alternative energy concepts. This includes advising clients who are active in developing cleantech offerings including: solar, wind and water power. The team recently advised Victoria Oil & Gas Plc on its over-subscribed £23.4 million placing. The Firm’s energy litigation

ACQ 113 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

practice has also played a crucial role in safe guarding its clients’ assets and interests overseas. The team also regularly handled international commercial energy litigation disputes arbitration and alternative dispute resolution proceedings. Sport The Firm’s Sport team provides practical commercial advice to global brands, international sporting bodies, the world’s greatest sports events, agency/management companies and highprofile individuals and is at the forefront of the development of areas such as ticketing, event management, licensing and brand protection. In addition, Kerman & Co LLP regularly provides advice on copyright infringement, image rights, passing off and trademark infringement, particularly in the run up to, and during, the events. The team is often instructed to draft and implement antiinfringement programs and to maintain on-site offices to ensure 24/7 coverage. The Sport team has years of expertise in advising on sponsorship contracts which has recently included the drafting of all of the sponsorship and supplier contracts for the Ryder Cup, London Marathon and RideLondon. The team has also drafted regulations and provided advice concerning the scope and interpretation of regulations (including the interaction with European Competition Law) for a number of disciplines. Kerman & Co LLP handles all categories of contentious work including the enforcement of contracts. It has particular expertise in obtaining Injunctions in relation to the enforcement of proprietary rights. The team also recently represented the RFU in their application for Norwich Pharmacal relief against the ticket exchange website Viagogo. The case was appealed to the Supreme Court, following a landmark ruling in the High Court, by Consolidated Information Services Ltd (Formerly Viagogo Ltd) (In Liquidation). The appeal was unanimously dismissed by the Supreme Court in November 2012 and has set an important precedent for enabling rights holders to take action against previously unknown ticket resellers. It is envisaged that more rights holders will seek to implement a ticketing policy that will help to prevent the unlawful reselling of their tickets.

Kerman & Co LLP 200 Strand, London, WC2R 1DJ T 020 7539 7272 F 020 7240 5780

Keith Dempster e: keith.dempster@kermanco.com

Michael Bennett e: michael.bennett@kermanco.com

Joan Yu e: joan.yu@kermanco.com

Nick Bitel e: nick.bitel@kermanco.com

WINNER

DENMARK - FINANCIAL DUE DILIGENCE ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR – KPMG

KPMG’s Transaction Services is part of the Advisory leg of the global network of professional firms that provide Audit, Tax and Advisory services. We combine our specialist skills around the world to tackle the challenges, provide objective advice and execute to help preserve and maximize value for the benefit of our clients. We bring together local knowledge and global experience to provide our clients with the service they need, when they need it and where they need it. In Denmark, we are approximately 300 persons in KPMG Advisory on a global level, the 34,000 people in Advisory are part of the global network of more than 152,000 staff in 156 countries. KPMG’s Transaction Services operates as a trusted adviser to many of the world’s leading corporations and financial investors. Our international network comprises over 3,300 transaction professionals with M&A advisory skills and experience offering our services to our

clients to enable them to preserve and create value when conducting business transactions. The Danish Transaction Services team consists of 25 people that together with our Nordic colleagues provide financial, commercial and operational due diligence services, sell-side assistance and structuring advice to strategic corporates and private equity firms operating in the Danish and wider Nordic market place. We work closely with our clients to assess and analyze their proposed transactions, highlighting the value drivers, risks, and opportunities inherent in the transaction and we help to develop appropriate accounting, finance, and tax structures as well as provide advice on post-deal and integration strategies.

Søren P. Krejler Head of KPMG’s Danish Transaction Services department KPMG Osvald Helmuths Vej 4, 2000 Frederiksberg, DENMARK T +45 7323 3726 E skrejler@kpmg.dk www.kpmg.dk

We typically remain involved throughout the life cycle of the deal.

WINNER

UK - PE FUND ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR, LANGHAM HALL

Leading Global provider of private equity and real estate fund administration and accounting services. Langham Hall was founded in May 2006 by Rob Short and a group of like-minded partners, with the conviction that the world of fund administration did not deliver to the needs of today’s sophisticated managers. From the start Langham Hall was set up to be different: As an owner managed business, our reputation and success depends on absolute client satisfaction. This makes us good listeners and a responsive partner. Our senior team has broad career experience in private equity fund administration, corporate finance, real estate and operational roles. We use this experience to add value beyond the core fund administration services, especially for managers at the set up stage. We only employ the best people, then we train and develop them. Services Langham Hall administers 80 funds with commitments of $20bn from offices in London, Hong Kong, Jersey, Guernsey and Luxembourg. We add value to fund managers through the combination of expert accounting and high quality investor reporting, supported by leading edge internet based technology. Our core strength however is our hands on approach, our staff and management team give our clients unparalleled focus. Our core services for all structures across the alternative asset class include: Fund administration | Fund accountancy | Treasury | Investor reporting (bespoke to client) Accounting for investment holding companies | Provision of Directors offshore

AIF Depository services

Why are we different? We are not a volume player or system driven administrator trying to be all things to all people. We are highly specialised and have a distinctive understanding of all aspects of the sector, including legal and tax structuring, partnership operations, LPA terms and accounting. Clients can expect an exceptional level of personal involvement and proactive leadership from us both during the set up of the fund and its ongoing life. This is especially true at partner level. A partner level person leads each relationship with our clients. Contacts: Rob Short T: +44(0)20 3597 7905 E: rob.short@langhamhall.com

Marie Fitzpatrick T: +44(0)20 3597 7909 E: marie.fitzpatrick@langhamhall.com

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

UK - REAL ESTATE FUND ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR, LANGHAM HALL

Real Estate Fund Administrator of the Year 2013 Private Equity Fund Administrator of the Year 2013 Langham Hall to offer AIFMD depository services to real estate and private equity funds London: 8th Floor Aldwych House 81 Aldwych London WC2B 4HN

Hong Kong: 3602 The Centre 99 Queens Road Central Hong Kong

Jersey: 3rd Floor Walker House 28-34 Hill Street St Helier Jersey Channel Islands JE4 8PN

Guernsey: Regency Court Glategny Esplande St Peter Port Guernsey GY1 3RH

Luxembourg: 2 Rue des Dahlias L-1411 Luxembourg

For all enquiries, please contact: Rob Short Marie Fitzpatrick Managing Partner Business Development Director T: +44(0)20 3597 7905 T: +44(0)20 3597 7909

WINNER

GERMANY - INSOLVENCY & RESTRUCTURING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, LEONHARDT RECHTSANWÄLTE Firm profile LEONHARDT Rechtsanwaelte rank amongst the leading law firms with regards to insolvency law in Germany. Our restructuring advice benefits from our vast experience and ground-breaking insolvency cases our firm has previously been involved in. Our experience in insolvency law and restructuring goes back about 90 years. More than 20 qualified German attorneys and corporate lawyers work for LEONHARDT Rechtsanwaelte as insolvency practitioners. The success of our restructuring practice is based on our knowledge of the advantages of restructurings especially through insolvency plan procedures, which are still far from commonplace and the use of which we as pioneers have acquired an edge. Thus, we advise directors, members, creditors, receivers, administrators, liquidators and any other type of insolvency practitioner, as well as corporate law firms and management consultancies on the restructuring of businesses, companies or high net worth individuals who are insolvent or bankrupt. Today, we have more than 100 professionals working in our insolvency administration and restructuring practice, which at any given time handles about 700

ACQ 115 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

company insolvencies. This puts us in a position to manage insolvencies of any size. In the field of insolvency administration we are certified according to the quality management standard DIN EN ISO 9001:2008. LEONHARDT’s litigation division works on litigation assignments which stem from our insolvency practitioners as well as from renowned external clients. Our emphasis is on litigation in the fields of corporate, insolvency and employment law. The focus on corporate, insolvency and employment allows us to make full use of our litigation expertise in these practise areas. LEONHARDT’s contract and notaries division handles wide areas of real estate and companies law cases and has acquired extensive expertise in sale processes of distressed real estate cases. Areas of practice: Ŕ *OTPMWFODZ 3FTUSVDUVSJOH Ŕ $PSQPSBUF . " Ŕ -BCPS -BX Ŕ /PUBSZ 1VCMJD

Contact: Mr. Christian Koehler-Ma (Partner) HERFURTH & PARTNER Kurfuerstendamm 26a 10719 Berlin Germany T +49 (0)30 88 59 03 0 F +49 (0)30 88 59 03 100 E c.koehler-ma@leonhardt-rechtsanwaelte.de E wissenschaft@leonhardt-rechtsanwaelte.de www.leonhardt-rechtsanwaelte.de

WINNER

UK - ASSET BASED LENDER OF THE YEAR, LEUMI ABL LIMITED

Leumi ABL is delighted to have repeated last year’s success, by once again winning the title of Asset Based Lender of the Year for the United Kingdom in ACQ’s Global Awards. Leumi ABL is the specialist asset based lending subsidiary of Bank Leumi (UK) plc, an international bank that last year marked its 110th anniversary. Providing funding from £1m to £25m, Leumi ABL provides a full range of asset based lending facilities, including stock finance and plant and machinery finance, real differentiators in today’s market. This is supported by trade finance and property finance facilities via Bank Leumi (UK). Despite the relentless gloomy press headlines, our sales teams across the UK are seeing more confidence in the SME sector, and whilst not yet resolved, there are fewer Euro scares and businesses are now actively looking to export to new markets. This all fuels the market appetite for reliable and flexible forms of financing that will enable confident growth and expansion. Leumi ABL continues to work closely with businesses and their advisors to ensure that financing facilities are structured creatively so as to maximise

growth opportunities. The team is rapidly earning a reputation for their flexible and highly personal approach to assisting business growth. Notable deals in 2012 included providing financing to 229 year old business Brintons Carpets Limited, one of the world’s leading premium brand carpet manufacturers. Leumi ABL supported Brintons with a multi asset ABL package totalling £11.5m, comprising Debtor, Stock and Plant and Machinery facilities. Another deal saw Leumi ABL support the Management Buy-In of Eddington’s Limited, a supplier of innovative housewares products to retailers in the UK and continental Europe. Leumi ABL impressed the client with their detailed understanding of the client’s requirements and an ABL package combining invoice discounting and stock finance was put in place to support the MBI.

Leumi ABL Limited 126 Dyke Road Brighton East Sussex BN1 3TE

With indications that M&A activity is on the increase and refinancing continues to come out of high street clearers, Leumi ABL is well placed to offer the consistency and stability which is so highly valued by growing businesses.

FRANCE - SHIPPING & MARITIME FIRM OF THE YEAR – LEWIS & CO AARPI EUROPE - NICHE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR (SHIP ARREST) – LEWIS & CO AARPI Firm profile A truly Anglo-French Law firm, LEWIS & CO AARPI is based in Paris with five lawyers, Guillaume de Bascher, Leïla Esnard, Michel Ferrer, Peter Iglikowski and Lars Lewis. All are avocats at the Paris bar, and the two founding partners, Peter Iglikowski and Lars Lewis, are also qualified and practise as solicitors in England and Wales. LEWIS & CO AARPI provides a full range of international services in shipping, international trade, insurance and commercial law.

Peter Iglikowski

Lars Lewis

Peter Iglikowski is a dual qualified Solicitor in England and Wales and Avocat at the Paris bar, with 30 years experience in international shipping and commercial law. He is qualified to advise on English and French law. He is specialized in shipping international trade and commercial litigation with extensive experience of arbitration in London and Paris in these fields. He has been practicing in France since 1986.

Lars is a Solicitor in England and Wales and an Avocat at the Paris bar. He is the Managing Partner of LEWIS & CO AARPI. He deals with all aspects of shipping, international trade, and insurance, including P&I and defence, casualties, pollution, ship arrest, yachts, cruise and ferry, soft commodities, oil trading, international arbitration, and the defence of personal injury claims. A survey by the International Bar Association in Who’s Who Legal said participants were “very impressed”. Lars often speaks at conferences including the Lloyd’s Maritime Academy ship arrest conference.

He studied law at Cambridge and has been a lecturer in private international comparative law at the University of Paris V since 1989. He is fluent in English and French. He also speaks fluent Polish and can read Italian, Spanish and Russian. He is particularly experienced in dealing with cross border disputes. He has extensive experience and contacts in Eastern Europe and Francophone North and West Africa.

Phil Woodward, Managing Director

T 01273 716200 M: 07900 802774 E pwoodward@leumiabl.co.uk www.leumiabl.co.uk

WINNER

Area of expertise LEWIS & CO AARPI advises on both English and French law in the following areas: Ŕ Aviation Ŕ Banking Ŕ Carriage by road, CMR, freight forwarding Ŕ Casualties/collisions Ŕ Charterparties and bills of lading, contracts of affreightment Ŕ Commerce Ŕ Commodities, international trade, letters of credit Ŕ Construction Ŕ Cruise and ferry Ŕ Defence of personal injury claims Ŕ Energy, coal, gas, oil Ŕ Export credit Ŕ Insolvency Ŕ Insurance and reinsurance Ŕ International arbitration and dispute resolution Ŕ Protection & indemnity and defence Ŕ Pollution Ŕ Ship arrest and other conservatory and enforcement measures Ŕ Ship sale and purchase Ŕ Super yachts and yachts

Contact details: Peter Iglikowski

Lars Lewis

LEWIS & CO AARPI 14 Avenue d’Eylau 75116 Paris FRANCE T +33 1 77 72 64 21 E info@lewiscolaw.com www.lewiscolaw.com

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

LUXEMBOURG - INVESTMENT FUNDS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR -Â LEXFIELD

LEXFIELD is a Luxembourg niche law firm focused on investment funds, corporate, tax and finance laws, capable of handling sophisticated legal matters with a high level of tailor-made services. The firm was created with the ambition of setting new benchmarks in the Luxembourg legal market to provide the highest quality in a creative and dynamic environment. Luxembourg is the Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s number 1 investment fund centre and the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading hub for global fund distribution. The continuing development of the Grand-Duchy as a centre of financial and investment fund services has led to a unique concentration of specialist service providers. This unparalleled blend of expertise in the areas of fund administration, management and distribution enables Luxembourg to offer fund promoters and investors an extraordinarily wide range of investment products. Since its inception, LEXFIELD developed an extensive and growing investment management practice and serves the whole investment management value chain. The firm specialises in a wide range of regulated investment funds with a focus on Undertakings for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities (UCITS) and Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs), including a specific expertise on private equity and real estate investments. Jonathan BURGER is the partner having founding the investment management practice of LEXFIELD. He combines his strong tax expertise of international tax structuring with the creation and organisation of Luxembourg regulated investment funds, including UCITS and Specialised Investment Funds (SIFs), advising domestic and international fund promoters, distributors, investment bankers, asset managers, depositary banks, central administrations and other agents providing

fund-related services. Before joining LEXFIELD, Jonathan was working in international law firms established in Luxembourg, including one of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Magic Circleâ&#x20AC;? law firms. Jonathan is also actively involved in the tax structuring of corporates, financial institutions and asset managers across a broad spectrum of matters including international tax planning, fund structuring, M&A mandates, private banking and wealth management. Over the last years he frequently advised fund promoters and asset managers on the launching of Alternative Investment Funds structures such as SIFs platforms with a wide range of alternative investment strategies, including amongst others long-short equity, long only, contrarian, real estate, credit funds, renewable energies, physical gold, forestry assets, etc. His recent handling matters include: Ĺ&#x201D; 4 FU VQ PG B 6$*54 .BOBHFNFOU $PNQBOZ BQQSPWFE CZ UIF Luxembourg CSSF (2013), Ĺ&#x201D; " DUJOH BT MFHBM BEWJTPS PG B NFSDIBOU CBOL JO SFMBUJPO XJUI UIF set-up of a complex Alternative Investment Funds structuring with SIF vehicles (2013), Ĺ&#x201D; BVODIJOH PG B TPQIJTUJDBUFE 6$*54 GPS B 4XJTT BTTFU manager (2012), Ĺ&#x201D; " DUJOH BT MFHBM BEWJTPS UP B -VYFNCPVSH GVOE QSPNPUPS JO relation with the new UCITS IV rules and substance-related matters of domestic management companies (2012), Ĺ&#x201D; BVODIJOH PG TFWFSBM TUBOE BMPOF 4*'T TUSVDUVSFT GPS B MBSHF Swiss asset manager (2012), Ĺ&#x201D; BVODIJOH PG TFWFSBM VNCSFMMB 4*'T GPS B -VYFNCPVSH GVOE promotor (2011 and 2010).

Jonathan Burger Investment Management Partner T +352 260 082 50 E jburger@lexfield.com www.lexfield.com

WINNER

RUSSIA - COMPANY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR -Â Ligerion Group Ligerion Group is a one of the leading Russian legal, trading and investment group. Having experience in doing actual business in Russia, the Group has an outstanding advantage in legal advisory services in Russia from other advisory firms. The Group has three-directional services developed by seasoned teams of experts with extensive cross-border and local experience: Ligerion Legal, Ligerion Trade and Ligerion Capital. The group has tailored integrated services supporting and advising companies in nearly every business area of Russian and CIS markets. Ligerion Legal, being the legal division of the Group, is recognised for its high efficiency and market knowledge when dealing with even the most delicate of issues. Ligerion Legal has been leading one of the most high-profile cases of restructuring in Russia, as well as very complex M&A deals in such spheres as oil & gas and natural resources. Combining the team of ex-ILFs and strong local team, Ligerion is known as being the best choice to achieve the best results in Russian business issues. Ligerion Legal has developed and applied in Russia a range of mediation and advisory services which cover all commercial, financial and legal needs. More particularly, this company has gained renown in the

ACQ 117 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

specific arena of assets protection, restructuring, investigation and mediation support which opens a large potential in Russia-related deals. Apart from successful advising and administration of distressed assets deals, Ligerion Legal has a track record of investments and M&A transactions in Russian and CIS region where the needs of the clients relating to all aspects of assets, payments and transfers were fully observed and protected. The Ligerion team stands on the frontline of court practice (e.g. bankruptcy and corporate disputes) in the Russian Federation. The Ligerion group has a proven track record in litigation, arbitration and dispute resolution in the areas of security enforcement, assets protection and intellectual property rights including post-merger and acquisition disputes. Ligerion is chosen by both foreign and local business based on the significant and persistently successful results in dispute resolution. In issues covering asset protection and debt recovery services, Ligerion Legal puts into action a network of negotiators and investigation agents placed at strategic points across the Federation and CIS. Ligerion Legal is known to obtain one of the best recovery rate in the region.

Andrey Shakhovnin, Partner Head of Ligerion Legal Ligerion Group 12, Krasnopresnenskaya nab. 123610 Moscow T +7 (495) 210-31-23 E Andrey.Shakhovnin@Ligerion.com www.ligerion.com

WINNER

RUSSIA - MEDIATION ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR -Â Ligerion Group Ligerion Group is a one of the leading Russian legal, trading and investment group. Having experience in doing actual business in Russia, the Group has an outstanding advantage in legal advisory services in Russia from other advisory firms. Ligerion Legal, being the legal division of the Group, is recognised for its high efficiency and market knowledge when dealing with even the most delicate of issues. Ligerion Legal has been leading one of the most high-profile cases of restructuring in Russia, as well as very complex M&A deals in such spheres as oil & gas and natural resources. Combining the team of ex-ILFs and strong local team, Ligerion is known as being the best choice to achieve the best results in Russian business issues. Ligerion Legal has developed and applied in Russia a range of mediation and advisory services which cover all commercial, financial and legal needs. More particularly, this company has gained renown in the specific arena of assets protection, restructuring, investigation and mediation support which opens a large potential in Russia-related deals. Being a fully business oriented group (comprising of both legal and investments division), Ligerion is able to find

impressive and effective solutions in mediation and has gained reputation of â&#x20AC;&#x153;deadlock solversâ&#x20AC;?. One of Ligerion clients commented on the deal involving a restructuring of the largest real estate fund in Russia with a more than USD 300 million valuation: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ligerion has shown outstanding results in the course of quite a long-term restructuring deal. As mediators, Ligerion is definitely one of the best in industry. Having experience with other companies, we note that in complex and very strained deals there is no other mediator alternative.â&#x20AC;? Another client noted the work of Ligerionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team on an over USD 1,4 billion restructuring deal of a finance company in Russia: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have used Ligerion as a full-service mediation and advisory company for the whole deal. The deal itself included arbitration, corporate legal issues, business aspects as well as mediation with a large pool of counterparties â&#x20AC;&#x201C; both foreign and Russian. Combined with their internal investments background they provide accurate and practical solutions. We note that Ligerion performs as an impressive and effective mediator at all the deal stages and were by no means of one the best advisors we have used in Russia.â&#x20AC;?

Andrey Polevoy, Partner Ligerion Group 12, Krasnopresnenskaya nab. 123610 Moscow T +7 (495) 210-31-23 E Andrey.Polevoy@Ligerion.com www.ligerion.com

WINNER

SWEDEN

Right lawyer by your side

- INDEPENDENT LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, LINDSKOG MALMSTRĂ&#x2013;M ADVOKATBYRĂ&#x2026; KB

LINDSKOG MALMSTRĂ&#x2013;M ADVOKATBYRĂ&#x2026; has successfully represented clients in legal matters for more than

60 years. Taking advantage of the latest technology, we focus on business questions in both a Swedish and international context. Our guiding principle is to provide cost effective counsel. If you want the right lawyer by your side, turn to Lindskog MalmstrĂśm. WE ADVISE ON: Swedish and international business law, real estate and environmental law, insolvency law,

private law, and Swedish and international tax law.

www.lmlaw.se

/LQGVNRJ0DOPVWURĹ´PB(1B [ PP LQGG

The Swedish member of

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

GERMANY

WINNER

- CORPORATE FINANCE BOUTIQUE, M&A INTERNATIONAL GMBH M&A International GmbH is a leading and highly recognized independent advisory firm specializing in mergers & acquisitions and corporate finance with focus on mid-sized transactions. The firm is run as a Partnership. The Partners have extensive experience and a proven track directing und successfully completing M&A and financing transactions in a wide variety of industries. Customers are predominantly family businesses as well as private equity firms and corporations in Germany and abroad. Founded already in 1977, the company has a global reach via a well-established international network of independent co-operation partners. In the past 15 years, M&A International has successfully advised its clients on more than 100 transactions, 80% of which were cross border in nature. Key drivers to the company´s success are the passion for each individual project, the comprehensive project management as well as the outstanding ability to successfully complete projects. M&A International is also renowned for its twice a year published market survey “m&a monitor” on M&A transactions with involvement of German corporates. Selected transactions include the following: Sale of Ascopharm Group to private equity firm Adiuva Capital (MBI), acquisition of a division of Hans Oetiker AG (Switzerland) by Tamsan Baglanti Elemanlari A.Ş. (Turkey), acquisition of Gries & Heissel Bankiers AG by Euro Yatırım Menkul Değerler A.Ş. (Turkey), sale of Theisen Baumaschinen AG to Finish listed Cramo PLC (trade sale), sale of Kaffee Partner Group to Swiss-based private equity firms Capvis Equity Partner and Partners Group (tertiary buy-out), sale of Erpo Möbelwerke GmbH to financial investor Afinum (MBO), sale of Alex & Gross Communications GmbH to Tectum Group (portfolio company of Quadriga Capital), sale of Advanced Polymer Technology Corp. (USA) and Sports Technology International (Asia) Ltd. to Sportfield Beteiligungen (portfolio company of Industri Capital).

“Again and again we earn the trust of our clients, because their interests are the center of our advisory work. For each project we develop tailored solutions.” M&A International GmbH Campus Kronberg 7 D-61476 Kronberg im Taunus Germany T +49 6173 702 115 F +49 6173 702 333 E info@m-a-international.de

Axel Gollnick Managing Partner T +49 6173 702115 E gollnick@m-a-international.de

Ali Taşbaşı Managing Partner T +49 6173 702106 E tasbasi@m-a-international.de

Horst Friedrich Partner T +49 6173 702109 E friedrich@m-a-international.de

www.m-a-international.de

WINNER

FRANCE - EMPLOYMENT & LABOUR - MOST RESPECTED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - McDermott Will & Emery AARPI Jilali Maazouz is a partner and head of the labour and employment department in the Paris office of McDermott Will & Emery. Mr Maazouz focuses his practice on labour and employment, commercial litigation and international trade. He litigates and provides assistance on the civil, criminal and administrative aspects of these fields of law. As the head of the Paris labour and employment department, Mr Maazouz represents French affiliates of European, US, Canadian, Middle Eastern, North African and Asian multinationals. Mr Maazouz advises clients on the labour and employment aspects of their domestic and transnational commercial and corporate transactions (eg, national and cross-border restructurings; intra-group transfers of executives; employee representation; compliance; reductions in workforce), as well as on due diligence investigations, audits,

ACQ 119 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

employment contracts, employee benefits, workplace policies and best practices. Mr Maazouz also has extensive experience in guiding clients through the opportunities and obstacles presented by trading internationally, especially in Africa. Mr Maazouz is regularly interviewed by the French and US media and has authored several articles for different publications (eg, Bloomberg TV, Les Echos, L’Entreprise, Semaine Sociale Lamy, Liaisons Sociales, Décideurs Juridiques et Financiers and radio channels such as BFM and France Info). Mr Maazouz is a member of different professional associations such as the International Bar Association, the American Bar Association, the National Employment Law Council and Avosial. He also participated in the labour and employment workshops of Croissance Plus.

Jilali Maazouz Partner McDermott Will & Emery 23 rue de l’Université 75007 Paris, France T +33 1 81 69 15 00 F +33 1 81 69 15 15 E jmaazouz@mwe.com www.mwe.com

WINNER

GERMANY - FRANCHISE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - MEYER-KÖRING

A merger of two well-established German law offices, both dating back to the beginning of the 20th century, MEYER-KÖRING combines a fresh perspective with more than a century of tradition. With a total of no more than 30 lawyers, MEYER-KÖRING, a mediumsized operation by German standards, pursues a policy preferring strict quality standards, highly personalized client-lawyer relations and arm’s length working processes over rapid growth. Long-standing relationships provide a high degree of insight into clients’ specific legal concerns, financial issues or personal situation, allowing the professionals at MEYER-KÖRING to identify, avoid or resolve conflict, and enabling sensitive and capable problem-solving. For many years, the firm has been active in the field of Franchising law throughout Germany and other European countries. Today, MEYER-KÖRING are advisors to more than 150 franchisors in Europe and North America. The firm has particular experience in the development, reorganization and expansion of franchise systems. Its Franchise Practice Group focuses exclusively on advising Franchisors and Master

Franchisees in the optimization and management of franchise systems. It is MEYER-KÖRING’s paramount priority to advise Franchisors not only in the field of Franchising Law but, equally important, also in strategic questions with respect to international expansion. According to the Who’s Who Legal, Dr. Patrick Giesler, who heads the Franchise Practice Group, is one of the leading German franchise lawyers. He is the author of numerous books and publications on Franchising Law. Furthermore, Dr. Giesler is President and founder of the International Franchise Lawyers’ Association, a worldspanning network of law firms specializing in this field. Catering to the needs of foreign clients also outside and beyond the domain of franchising, MEYER-KÖRING, from its Berlin office, operates an international department where lawyers fully conversant in English and French provide advice and guidance to companies from all fields of business life, to foreign states and diplomatic missions as well as to banks, real estate partnerships and individual investors. Key specialisations are in Real Estate and Labour law.

Dr. Jan Patrick Giesler, MBA Rechtsanwalt MEYER-KÖRING Rechtsanwälte und Steuerberater Partnerschaftsgesellschaft (AG Essen PR 2523) Oxfordstr. 21, 53111 Bonn, Germany T +49 (0)228 72636-32 F +49 (0)228 72636-77 E giesler@meyer-koering.de www.meyer-koering.de

WINNER

UK - NICHE CONSULTANCY PRACTICE OF THE YEAR, MIAC-Acadametrics MIAC | Acadametrics (M|A) is a fully independent and proven valuation service provider covering all mortgagebacked and other fixed-income asset classes in the financial industry. Using our proprietary valuation software, MIAC Analytics™, and leveraging the firm’s combined international experience, (M|A) is ready to assist an institution in understanding the value of key assets or liabilities on it’s, or as an addition to its balance sheet. Using our proprietary software, and leveraging the professional team’s global expertise, we deliver to institutions the most comprehensive analytics on key assets and liabilities under review. As a leading global risk management firm, M|A provides services across the United States, Europe, and the UK, working with a range of organisations involved in managing, holding, buying, or selling these asset classes; inclusive of regulatory or commercial requirements. M|A covers the full spectrum of loan types and performance categories including performing and nonperforming asset categories for residential, lines of credit, commercial, inclusive of business loans and equipment leases, and across all consumer finance types, such as credit cards, loans, and auto. Our key services include Asset valuations Delivering market and economic valuations on performing and non-performing debt backed by assets of all types

across residential, commercial and consumer finance. All analytics based on loan level assessment. Loss Forecasting and Stress Testing Provide loan level forecasts based on client and/or market defined macroeconomic projections using a robust, internally developed Stress and Scenario Test (SST) model. This model includes the expected Loss Given Default (LGD) and Probability of Default (PD) at the loan level. Loan Sale Advisory Complete loan sale advisory services for banks and building societies, specialty finance companies, and insurance companies. We can professionally market the portfolio to qualified buyers and run a competitive auction, with the goal of generating best possible pricing for each asset type in the current market. Consulting Services Provision of a broad range of consulting services to the financial services industry including offering expertise in; model validation, credit policy review, portfolio segmentation and analysis, best practice review and benchmarking, and branch sale collateral analysis and valuation.

MIAC | Acadametrics T +44 (0)20 3397 4904 M +44 (0)7851214975 E david.pickles@miac-acadametrics.co.uk www.miac-acadametrics.co.uk

For more information please contact: David Pickles, Director Strategy & Development

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

UK - OPERATIONS CONSULTANT OF THE YEAR - Newton Europe Limited Newton specialise in hands-on operational and financial performance improvement. Within the PE arena Newton has been transformational in adding value to transactions both pre and post deal. Our objective is straightforward: to identify and deliver 150 to 450 basis point EBITDA margin improvements in any client organisation without incurring capital expenditure. Deal Advisory – Buy and Sell Side Newton has a unique ability to identify significant operational upside. Using their experience of delivering rapid operational improvement, Newton develop an in-depth understanding of both the upside opportunities and the risks that lie within a target’s operations, plans and capability.

key assumptions that lie behind a plan, identifying unforeseen costs or risks, or identifying opportunities for the first time. Within an operational due diligence capacity, we work with both buyers and sellers to help ensure that a portfolio company or target’s operations and cost base are performing as described and its projections are realistic and achievable. The rationale behind our findings is always clearly explained with evidence provided for all upsides to ensure buyers, funders and credit committees understand that the business case is robust and reliable.

Newton’s industry expertise can transform a deal by uncovering and unlocking previously hidden value in areas that go well beyond the scope of traditional due diligence providers. Newton has in-depth experience in identifying and delivering significant profit and cash improvements, working in areas as diverse as aerospace, automotive, defence, consumer goods, healthcare and industrials.

Portfolio company performance improvement Following a successful transaction, rapid delivery to meet or exceed the plan is critical and Newton is almost always engaged to lead operational improvement projects to deliver the opportunities identified during the transaction process – this delivery work is always conducted within Newton’s guaranteed fee structure: “no result, no fee”.

Through the early involvement of operations expertise within a deal, both buyers and sellers are able to extract significantly more value. Understanding and quantifying the impact of operations is critical to a deal’s ultimate success, whether this means challenging the

Newton applies its rigorous engineering based approach across a wide range of industry sectors, working on projects ranging from total cost of ownership, to value engineering and throughout the entire supply chain.

UK - CHAMBERS OF THE YEAR, NO 5 CHAMBERS

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Newton Europe Limited 2 Kingston Business Park Kingston Bagpuize Oxfordshire OX13 5FE T: +44 (0) 1684 576477 F: +44 (0) 1684 576497 E: info@newtoneurope.com W: www.newtoneurope.com

Tom Wedgwood E: t.wedgwood@newtoneurope.com

John D’Arcy E: j.darcy@newtoneurope.com

WINNER

UK - NEW LEGAL INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR (RISK WARNING), NO 5 CHAMBERS / REGULATORY LEGAL / PANNONE LLP / FRENKEL TOPPING

WINNER

EUROPE - CF ADVISOR OF THE YEAR (TECHNOLOGY) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; NOAH Advisors Ltd NOAH Advisors (www.noah-advisors.com) is a leading corporate finance boutique focused on sizable European Internet companies. The NOAH team advises on secondary sell-side transactions, as well as selected buy-side mandates and private debt and equity capital raisings. Typical deal sizes range from â&#x201A;Ź100 million to â&#x201A;Ź2 billion. NOAH combines bulge bracket investment banking skills, an unparalleled access to strategic and financial investors around the globe and unique Internet industry insight. As an independent advisory boutique with no banking or brokerage operations, NOAH provides honest and unbiased advice. The NOAH team very carefully selects deals where it can add most value and operates highly incentive-based to secure full client focus and maximise successful closing chances. Since its foundation in 2009, NOAH has completed 17 transactions, including most notably the sale of a 30% stake in Softonic to Partners Group in February 'PUPMJBĹ?T NJMMJPO -#0 JODMVEJOH NJMMJPO growth equity investment by KKR for a 50% stake in May 2012, and TA Associates and Summit Partnersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; N DPOUSPM USBOTBDUJPO PG #JHQPJOU JO "QSJM

NOAH Advisors was founded in April 2009 by Marco Rodzynek, former Head of European Internet of Lehman Brothers in London, where he covered Internet companies since the 1990s and completed over 30 transactions. He was later joined by former long-time Lehman colleagues Yoram Wijngaarde and Jan Brandes. By now the NOAH team has grown to 10 members in Switzerland, London and Berlin, of which 6 are full-time bankers. NOAH Advisors also hosts the NOAH Internet Conference (www.noah-conference.com), Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading event for Internet companies and investors meet to network and discuss industry trends. The NOAH Conference 2013 will take place on the 13th and 14th of November 2013 at Old Billingsgate in London. The NOAH London Conference is invitation-only. If you do not have an invitation code, please request your invitation code here. (http://www.noahconference.com/2013/london13/request-invitation/)

Marco Rodzynek (CEO) www.noah-advisors.com

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

UK - SEED INVESTOR FIRM OF THE YEAR - Osprey Capital Osprey Capital Ltd invests in high-potential companies at the seed and development stages and is focused on investments into UK retail financials and its associated sectors. The Liverpool-based company, set up by Chairman Ronan Kearney in 2008, is established as a limited company rather than an LLP which ensures greater transparency. Osprey Capital is a response to an issue which the venture capital market has long faced. The Principal-Agent problem has sometimes led to a mis-match in returns between the investment managers and the investors. This lack of transparency about what returns are expected and delivered, has led to a drop in investor confidence. The Osprey Capital model ensures that profits are attributed to shareholders based on their share ownership. As there are no third party funders, returns are measured solely on a cash to cash basis rather than a notional value of the underlying holdings. There are no management fees charged, and no third party committees to refer to. Osprey’s first investment was Allium Capital, a consulting and actuarial firm that worked with

ACQ 123 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

fund managers, which it exited in February 2013 returning 11.9 x capital for investors. Alongside this first investment Osprey Capital invested in the Caerus Group, a firm focused on financial advice and the distribution of funds. Osprey Capital will shortly exit its second investment. 2013 is shaping up to be another big year for the company with stakes taken in hedge fund firm Mansard Capital and capital markets business iNDEXX Markets. Following the company’s return to Liverpool and engagement with the local business community an opportunity also arose to invest in public sector media platform and conferencing business GovToday. The GovToday model is a familiar concept to Osprey Capital employing as it does a classic customer focused sales operation which presents a strong opportunity for growth and the potential expansion into financial services conferences. Osprey is also considering investments into discretionary fund managers, and softwarebased advice solutions focused on the direct to consumer market.

Ronan Kearney Osprey Capital Ltd Osprey Capital, Fifth Floor, Horton House, Exchange Flags, Liverpool, Merseyside, L2 3PF T 0151 244 5462 E ronan.kearney@osprey-capital.co.uk www.osprey-capital.co.uk

WINNER

UK - TECHNICAL ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR, OST ENERGY LTD

OST Energy is an engineering consultancy in the renewable energy market specialising in solar photovoltaics, bioenergy, wind power, concentrated solar power and hydro plants. The company has grown rapidly since it was established in 2008 with the aim of providing exceptional consultancy services built upon a wealth of knowledge and experience. Our clients range from private equity funds and banks to owners, developers and utilities. Our specialist teams advise on all aspects of projects from green-field developments, to asset management of existing operational plants and we undertake assignments globally throughout Europe, Asia and the Americas. 2012 was a busy year for the company; our new subsidiary, OST BioEnergy has grown

substantially since its launch in Spring 2011 and our Solar PV division has opened a new office in Cape Town as well as cementing our market leading position in this sector having acted as Technical Advisors on nearly 60% of all the large scale PV projects (>1MW) installed under the UK FIT legislation. A new office has been opened in Cape Town assist in the growing African market. Director Bruce Sexton comments: “It’s a real pleasure to receive this award for UK Technical Advisor of the Year. It’s been an exciting year and all of our teams have worked tirelessly to make the business a success. This award recognises their contribution to growing our business and we look forward to maintaining and improving the quality of our services going forward’

Contact details: Bruce Sexton Bruce Sexton@ostenergy.com T +44 (0) 1273 819429 www.ostenergy.com

WINNER

UK - NICHE CONSULTANCY OF THE YEAR (HEALTHCARE) – OXFORD CONSULTING ASSOCIATES Most commercial due diligence reports are ‘bland’, ‘lack useful insight’, and ‘do not help generate real value’ during the transaction. These are comments that a number of private equity and strategic investor firms have made to us in recent years, about other commercial due diligence providers – both big global players and small niche boutiques – which they have used. From a due diligence provider’s perspective, some of the reasons driving the production of bland or insipid reports are clear. Uncertainty about a hoped-for end to the recession, memories of over-optimistic projections prior to 2007, the need to be cautious when offering full reliance to investors, and the complexity of the target’s operating environment can all conspire to create a situation where most due diligence firms are not prepared to offer clear, unambiguous conclusions. Too many due diligence reports end up being little more than a re-hash of publicly available information, data from industry reports put into complex charts, and summaries of interviews with a limited number of leading figures. Although some of these due diligence reports may give a good background to the industry, the key drivers and the competitive landscape, they usually offer neither strategic insights, nor a clear view of what the acquisition target needs to do to be successful over the next five-to-ten years. The report might validate key assumptions in the Information Memorandum, but does it identify opportunities and issues that management hadn’t even considered? Investors are finding that due diligence providers often fail to give them the

real clarity and the actionable insights that they need to help them decide how much to bid. Without clear findings and recommendations from due diligence providers, private equity firms and strategic investors find themselves losing deals – or worse: overpaying for an acquisition. These outcomes lead, in turn, to escalating costs at investment firms, and acquisitions that struggle to deliver a decent return on exit. Obviously, in order to offer commercial and operational due diligence support to investors, a consulting firm has to be able to demonstrate capabilities such as in-depth experience in the sector, flexibility, a fact-based analysis approach, an ability to deliver to tight timescales, and the skills to synthesize a lot of information into a clear picture. However, these are just the minimum requirements. Oxford Consulting believes that all due diligence providers need to step up to match the real needs of investor firms, rather than just deliver ‘bland’ analyses with a series of caveats and provisos. Investors want clear and meaningful recommendations, backed up by detailed, fact-based analysis and deep expertise in the target’s industry. Investors need due diligence providers that have demonstrated time and again their ability to give meaningful advice. Our clients tell us that what makes Oxford Consulting stand out amongst all other UK consulting firms is the clarity of the rock-solid advice that we provide. We deliver detailed analysis for complex acquisitions, generating unambiguous recommendations and conclusions. Moreover; we have a reputation for getting it right!

Alistair C. Binnie Managing Partner Oxford Consulting Associates LLP Mill Street Eynsham Oxfordshire OX29 4JX T +44 (0) 1865 465 808 M +44 (0) 7711 686 624 www.oxfordconsulting.org

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

ITALY - OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, PAVIA e ANSALDO

Pavia e Ansaldo, founded in 1961, is an independent Italian law firm with a strong international orientation and practice. It has around 150 lawyers based in the main offices in Italy, Milan and Rome, and in the Brussels, Moscow, St. Petersburg and Tokyo branches abroad.

Areas of Practice Ŕ Administrative Law

The firm’s practice covers all corporate and commercial law areas from both a transaction and litigation perspective. All of the firm’s areas of expertise are closely integrated and organized so that they can work in synergy to provide personalized and cross practice advice aimed at identifying the very best solutions for its clients. This enables the firm to provide integrated services through flexible and tailored working groups headed by at least one partner and created around client’s specific requirements.

Ŕ Capital Markets

From its establishment Pavia e Ansaldo chose independence and maintained steady relationships with major law firms in foreign jurisdictions, selected according to their specific expertise in their respective practice areas, particularly in Europe, the USA and the Far East, in order to provide top quality cross-practice services, tailored to the needs of clients.

Ŕ Intellectual Property and Information Technology

Ŕ Antitrust and Competition Ŕ Aviation, Maritime and Shipping Law Ŕ Banking and Finance Ŕ Construction and Project Finance Ŕ Corporate and Commercial Ŕ Data Protection Ŕ Dispute Resolution Ŕ Employment Ŕ Energy Ŕ Environmental Law Ŕ EU Law Ŕ Mergers & Acquisitions / Private Equity Ŕ Pharmaceutical Ŕ Real Estate Ŕ Restructuring and Insolvency Ŕ Telecommunication, Media and Entertainment

Milan Via del Lauro, 7 I-20121 Milan T (+39) 0285581 E info.milano@pavia-ansaldo.it Rome Via Bocca di Leone, 78 I-00187 Rome T (+39) 06695161 E info.roma@pavia-ansaldo.it Brussels Avenue des Arts, 41 B-1040 Brussels T (+32) 2 5170750 E info.brussels@pavia-ansaldo.be Moscow Nikolskaya Street, 10 RU-109012 Moscow T (+7) 495 6608838 E info.moscow@pavia-ansaldo.com St. Petersburg Kropotkina Street, 1 RU-197101 St. Petersburg T (+7) 812 3323128 E info.saintpetersburg@pavia-ansaldo.com Tokyo ICCJ-Enokizaka Bldg. 3f 1-12-12 Akasaka, Minato-ku Tokyo 107-0052 T (+81) 3 35601241 E info.tokyo@pavia-ansaldo.com www.pavia-ansaldo.com

WINNER

UK - NICHE DEBT PROVIDER OF THE YEAR (HEALTHCARE) - PHARMACY PARTNERS The leading authority on pharmacy finance in the UK, Pharmacy Partners has a proven track record as champions of community pharmacy. A specialist, niche debt provider, Pharmacy Partners turns pharmacies into cash businesses, enabling them to get paid immediately for their NHS dispensing. Part of the Centric Commercial Finance group, Pharmacy Partners has a dedicated pharmacy finance team with decades of experience, industry knowledge and relationships in the sector. Customer access to expert decision makers in the company is a key differentiator and enables transactions to be arranged more quickly and professionally. With greater knowledge and expertise in the sector, the Pharmacy Partners’ team is able to release a greater quantum of funding than its competitors. This provides an immediate injection of cash into the pharmacy - worth approximately 10% of their NHS turnover. Additional loan facilities are also available. For current pharmacy owners, Pharmacy Partners can significantly lower the equity requirement for future acquisitions. For first time buyers, Pharmacy Partners provides working capital from day one.

ACQ 125 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

With 100 Hour Pharmacies, longer opening hours mean higher wage costs and potentially restricted credit terms from suppliers. Pharmacy Partners helps independent pharmacists take the hurdles of running a 100 Hour Pharmacy in their stride. Working with Pharmacy Partners means that entrepreneurial pharmacists with a variety of business interests can make their money work harder and unlock the cash tied up in their NHS debtors for more profitable use elsewhere. Whatever a pharmacy needs, whether it is seeking a flexible source of funding to complete a re-fit, negotiate early settlement discounts with wholesalers, market services locally or add a new consulting room, Pharmacy Partners delivers vital finance to drive growth. Importantly, Pharmacy Partners offers a unique funding platform designed specifically for the pharmacy payment cycle. With a Pharmacy Partners facility, the charging structure is clear and transparent and the reconciliation process is smooth. Funding is available at any point of the month, not only once the pharmacist has produced its FP34C!

Pharmacy Partners T: +44 (0) 808 144 5554 E: info@pharmacypartners.com www.pharmacypartners.com

WINNER

SCANDINAVIA - PRIVATE EQUITY HOUSE OF THE YEAR, PROCURITAS PARTNERS AB Procuritas Procuritas is a private equity house specialized in initiating, structuring and financing management buyouts in Scandinavia. The company was founded in 1986 and it has remained true to the mid-market segment, active ownership and a strategy of creating value in all stages of an investment. With its long history, Procuritas has gained experience from a large variety of transactions under widely varying market conditions. Since inception, Procuritas has successfully invested in 32 Nordic companies in a broad range of industries - the current portfolio consists of 11 companies. Procuritas investment team consists of individuals complementary backgrounds (industrial, financial and consulting) from top-tier global firms and with +60 years of industrial experience. In addition to the investment team, Procuritas has over the years developed

an advisory network with +100 senior executives with backgrounds across most industries. The advisory network is typically heavily involved in the transaction phase and sometimes also appointed to the board. The key investment focus lies on pro-active and proprietary sourcing where Procuritas has specialized – more than 50% of the companies screened and acquired come from proprietary sources. The acquisition candidates are typically niche market leaders with potentially for accelerated growth and operational improvements. Procuritas has demonstrated a very strong track record of investing throughout business cycles, delivering one of the highest returns in the European PE market (according to Preqin) from the past four funds. The company has received several awards for its outstanding performance and track record.

Visit www.procuritas.com for more information.

WINNER

FINLAND - CORPORATE FINANCE ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR - PROMAN OY ProMan Oy, founded in 1988, is a Finnish partner owned company focusing on implementing M&A transactions. ProMan is also one of the oldest and one of the leading M&A advisors focusing on mid-market transactions in Finland. In 2012 the company made most transactions of all the M&A advisors in Finland. ProMan’s core competence is in the management and implementation of the M&A transaction process in Finnish and international sell and buy mandates of companies. With the negotiation and implementation experience of over 120 transactions the firm can assure the best results for its clients. The firm’s client base consists of owners of companies, entrepreneurs, owner families and midsized stock exchange companies and international companies, who wants to acquire a platform for their business in Finland. ProMan serves both Finnish and international companies. In every fourth of ProMan’s transactions there has been a foreign buyer or seller. The head office of ProMan is in Helsinki with a regional office in Salo. In addition to the firm’s seven full time M&A specialists, the firm also has experienced advisory

board members and globally 500 IMAP partners and their resources and experience to fall back upon. Mr. Wikholm commented on the trends he has observed within the M&A industry: “Nowadays, even in midmarket transactions there are more and more cross border deals. That is why ProMan has been a member of IMAP since 2002, with over 45 partner companies in more than 30 countries. The partnership in IMAP enables us to find potential foreign buyers to Finnish companies and to offer foreign companies for sale by our partners to Finnish companies. As evidence of the successful Nordic IMAP cooperation that we have, together with our Nordic IMAP colleagues, we made the most transactions of all the Nordic M&A advisors in five consecutive years from 2007 to 2011.” ProMan Oy continues to offer independent advisory services in implementing M&A transactions. Being independent from the finance providers guarantees an objective advisory service and the membership in the efficient IMAP network enables finding globally foreign buyers and sellers for its customers.

Lars Wikholm Managing Director, Partner ProMan Oy Korkeavuorenkatu 30 A, 3 .Floor 00130 Helsinki, Finland T +358 (0)9 6120 2610 E lars.wikholm@proman.fi www.proman.fi

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

GERMANY - INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY & PATENTS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR – Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, LLP

– qed. urquhart & sullivan, llp

QED advert IP/AL 230x306 schwarz.indd 1

ACQ 127 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

12.06.13 19:09

WINNER

PORTUGAL - FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - Raposo Bernardo & Associados, Sociedade de Advogados, RL Raposo Bernardo is an international full service law firm, corporate, business and government oriented, being currently present in nine countries, in Europe (Portugal, Spain, Poland and Romania) and Africa (Angola, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique and São Tome and Principe). Today Raposo Bernardo gathers an international team, highly skilled and motivated, highly focused to be the legal partner that is up to the challenges that businesses and entrepreneurs have to deal with. We regularly represent the interests of national and international players, such as investment and commercial banks, finance companies, investment funds, financial intermediaries, governmental entities, public sector entities and private agents in legal matters concerning Insurance, Energy, Pharmaceutical, Tourism and Leisure, Construction, Technology, Retail and Transportation. Despite being a full service law firm, we focus especially on Corporate Law, Mergers and Acquisitions, Commercial Law, Banking and Financial Law, Regulation, Competition, Licensing and Public Law, Labour Law and Tax Law mainly concerning investment planning, conception and restructuring perspective.

The firm stands for delivering top quality in every operation performed, wherever its jurisdiction, thus enhancing the sharing of relevant knowledge and local experience and transforming it into something useful by all our lawyers in their daily work, lawyers characterized by high technical skills, as well as a strong Client orientation and fine sensitivity to their business. The best prof of the quality we put on our work, is that it has been consistently recommended by Legal500 EMEA, Chambers and Partners and IFLR1000. Is thus with absolute confidence we trust this award is further evidence our firm makes a valuable long-term difference in our clients’ businesses.

Nelson Raposo Bernardo

Our team has a very own identity, which is reflected in their daily agenda, in the relationship with partners and clients, distinguished by a sateless ambition to learn and do more and better.

Raposo Bernardo & Associados Av. Fontes Pereira de Melo, Ed. Aviz, nº 35, 18º, 1050-118 LISBOA PORTUGAL

This is what differentiates us and our Clients recognize.

T (00351) 21 312 1330

This is our strong commitment today as it was in the early 1995.

F (00351) 21 356 2908 E lisboa@raposobernardo.com

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

RUSSIA - INVESTMENT FUND OF THE YEAR, RUSSIAN DIRECT INVESTMENT FUND 5IF 3VTTJBO %JSFDU *OWFTUNFOU 'VOE Ĺ?3%*'Ĺ? JT B CJMMJPO fund established by the Russian government to make equity investments primarily in the Russian economy. In all of its investments, RDIF is mandated to co-invest alongside some of the largest and most sophisticated investors globally â&#x20AC;&#x201C; thus acting as a catalyst for direct investment in Russia. The fund was created in 2011 under the leadership of both President and Prime Minister of Russian Federation and is managed by a highly qualified team of private equity investors with broad international and Russian experience. RDIFâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Supervisory Board consists of top ranked government officials of Russia. In addition to Supervisory Board, RDIF has an International Advisory Board made up of leaders of largest sovereign wealth funds and global private equity funds. In just over a year of existence, RDIF has invested D NMO XIJMF BUUSBDUJOH D CO GSPN DP JOWFTUPST 3%*' BMTP BUUSBDUFE D CO GSPN DP JOWFTUPST JO UIF deals, where co-investors completed the deals without participation from RDIF. So far RDIF completed investments into four companies â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Moscow Stock Exchange, Enel OGK5, MD Medical Group and KARO Film.

ACQ 129 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

Separately, RDIF has been working on establishing longterm partnerships with the key players in the investment sphere â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it has set up the Russia-China Investment Fund with CIC (committed capital commitments of up UP CO "VUPNBUJD $P JOWFTUNFOU .FDIBOJTN BU the moment Kuwait Investment Authority participates XJUI PWFSBMM N DPNNJUNFOU JOWFTUJOH JO BMM 3%*' deals, other investors might join), Pre-IPO Consortium with BlackRock, Templeton and Goldman ESSG (minority investments in Russian corporates 6-18 months prior to IPO priced at a sufficient IPO discount to generate target returns for RDIF and co-investors). RDIF also promotes Russiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s investment image worldwide under the slogan â&#x20AC;&#x153;Russia = Growthâ&#x20AC;? by marketing often overlooked growth statistics for Russia, leading the B20 taskforce on investment and infrastructure and launching â&#x20AC;&#x153;Invest in Russiaâ&#x20AC;? program. Kirill Dmitriev, RDIFâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CEO, is a well-known professional with extensive industry experience. In 2011 he was the only Russian national to be named one of 100 most influential private equity professionals of the decade by Private Equity International magazine.

Contact details: Maria Medvedeva Press Secretary Russian Direct Investment Fund Capital City, South Tower, 7th floor 8 Presnenskaya nab., building 1 Moscow, Russia 123317 Tel.: +7 (495) 644-3414 www.rdif.ru

WINNER

ITALY - M&A ADVISER OF THE YEAR, COMPASS, RONDELLI ADVISERS Compass, Rondelli Advisers is a M&A boutique, based in Milan, Italy

with awards recognising our client-focused approach resulting in successful transactions:

Founded in October 2006 by Saverio Rondelli, formerly at UBS, Citigroup and WestLB; the Milanbased investment banking boutique, Rondelli Advisers Srl, became the exclusive Italian affiliate of the international partnership Compass Advisers, to collaborate on cross-border M&A transactions involving Italian companies taking the brand name of Compass, Rondelli Advisers.

Ŕ Banking Advisory Firm of the Year Italy 2012 – Awarded by Finance Monthly

Our mission is to provide our clients world-class service through independent senior-level advice, a global network of relationships, and a talented roster of experienced investment bankers, fully dedicated to guide our clients through complex strategic initiatives in M&A transactions.

Ŕ Investment Bank of the Year 2010 – Awarded by Intercontinental Finance Magazine Global Awards

Ŕ ACQ Global Awards 2012 – Awarded by ACQ Global Ŕ M&A Advisory Firm of the Year 2011 and 2012– Italy – Awarded by DealMakers Monthly Ŕ Fast Emerging M&A Firm of the Year 2010 – Awarded by Corporate Intl Global Awards

Ŕ Investment Bank Of the Year 2009 – Awarded by ACQ Global, category Southern Europe

Saverio Rondelli - Partner

Since inception, Compass, Rondelli Advisers has advised many important domestic and international financial sponsors and corporate clients, helping them in successfully completing transactions, for a total transaction volume exceeding € 3.0 billion.

Ŕ Best Italian Turnaround 2008 – Award by AIFI, Italian Financial Sponsors Association. AIFI named the Klopman transaction the best 2008 turnaround deal; Compass, Rondelli Advisers acted as exclusive advisor to the private equity funds owning the company in the sale to an Indian trade buyer.

T +39 02 30300700

Compass, Rondelli Advisers is now one of the leading M&A boutiques in Italy. We also have been honoured

Also, Saverio Rondelli, the founder, has been recently honoured with the Leading Advisor 100 award.

Compass, Rondelli Advisers Compass, Rondelli Advisers Via S. Radegonda, 11 20121 Milan, Italy

F +39 02 30300706 E saverio.rondelli@ca-llp.com

WINNER

NETHERLANDS - FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - RUSSELL ADVOCATEN The full service law firm of Russell Advocaten is located in Amsterdam, the financial heart and capital city of the Netherlands. With Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and the port of Rotterdam, it is the perfect gateway to densely populated western and central Europe. Along with a stable economy and government, the country has a highly skilled, multilingual and flexible workforce and offers favourable tax regulations for businesses. Russell Advocaten provides prompt, high-quality legal services for the corporate sector. Our clients get all-round legal assistance and practical, immediately applicable solutions for their day-to-day business operations in the Netherlands. Our activities are based on the principle of “prevention is better than cure”. Russell Advocaten offers individual coaching, regular information and tailormade courses. We indicate possible legal issues to our clients at an early stage and, if possible, assist in preventing them. If a conflict arises, we seek to resolve the conflict with both parties. However, if legal proceedings have to be initiated, we assist our clients from start to finish – even to the Supreme Court of the Netherlands. Our main areas of expertise are: corporate law, business formation and reorganization, real estate and lease, labour/employment law, commercial contracts and (commercial) litigation. Among our clients are domestic and foreign (stock exchange listed) companies, local and national authorities, and foreign embassies and consulates.

Our expertise has not gone unnoticed: Russell Advocaten has just received the award “Full Service Law Firm of the Year”. Over the last few years, Russell Advocaten has also received awards for Best Employment Firm, Best Real Estate Firm and Best Commercial Law Law Firm in the Netherlands. Furthermore, Russell Advocaten has been recognised by Martindale Hubbell and listed in The European Legal 500 for many years. In addition, Russell Advocaten is a member of Primerus, an international network of independent, top-rated law firms. For more information see: www.russell.nl. The Netherlands is an appealing place to conduct business, particularly with a qualified lawyer guiding you through the rules and regulations of Dutch law. For this reason many (foreign) companies that set up their business in the Netherlands have chosen to seek assistance from Russell Advocaten. Reinier W.L. Russell Managing Partner Russell Advocaten P.O. Box 87400 1080 JK Amsterdam The Netherlands T +31 20 301 55 55 E r.russell@russell.nl I www.russell.nl

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

ACQ 131 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

UK - INVOICE FINANCE BANK OF THE YEAR, RBS INVOICE FINANCE

RBS Invoice Finance (RBSIF) has once again been announced as the winner of the UK Invoice Finance Bank of the Year Award in the ACQ Magazine Global Awards 2013. This is the second year running that RBSIF has secured the accolade which is voted for by professionals across the finance and business industry. The spotlight continues to focus on financial organisations with regards to the accessibility of finance and how the ability to secure the right package can play a huge role in the success or downfall of a business. Invoice Finance and Asset Based Lending (ABL) are increasingly becoming recognised as established mainstream products, and they are particularly attractive during a period when access to finance remains a key concern for many businesses. Although credit conditions in the UK are still viewed as tight, the increasing number of Government lending schemes and bank initiatives now available demonstrates that there are more finance options available to commercially viable SMEs and Corporates than ever before. It is therefore increasingly important that businesses understand what is available and which solution best suits their needs. Lending has moved beyond the conventional facilities of overdrafts and loans and we are seeing the emergence of more flexible types of funding such as ABL and Invoice Finance. Both products have evolved in sophistication and are considered as flexible and innovative funding packages used by many SMEs and Corporate businesses. Businesses can undoubtedly be attracted to the functionality of an overdraft, but this can have limitations for some trading businesses and does not link directly to the day to day receipts or potential delays in payments. Indeed those businesses that find it easier to survive are those that manage their cash flow and keep on top of their debtor

book and late payments. It is here that the benefits of Invoice Finance can be reaped. Martin Morrin, Managing Director at RBS Invoice Finance explains: “Invoice finance can give business owners the confidence to manage their cash flow effectively and a platform from which to grow. It allows businesses to take advantage of new market opportunities and trade with businesses they haven’t before. To receive this award the second year in a row is a great achievement and is testament to the continued hard work and commitment shown by our dedicated team of Invoice Finance specialists located in our offices across the UK. As an industry leader, RBS Invoice Finance is leading the way in supporting the growth and development of UK businesses.

Martin Morrin Managing Director RBS Invoice Finance Smith House Elmwood Avenue Feltham Middlesex TW13 7QD E martin.morrin@rbsif.co.uk T 020 8895 7576

Our track record of executing deals is demonstrated through the clients we have supported in 2012 including Hewden Stuart, Ainscough Group, pharmaceutical giant Wockhardt, Bond Street jeweller David Morris International and Healthcare at Home’s acquisition by Vitruvian Partners. We are delighted to be able to build further on the success of this award and remain focused on raising awareness of the benefits of Invoice Finance and ABL and writing more deals during 2013. Indeed, many UK businesses are already aware of the benefits of using these flexible forms of funding and we will continue to share our knowledge and expertise to support both our existing client base and new clients also. By taking a proactive approach we have been able to support a wide range of clients and look forward to building on this as the year progresses.” Security may be required. Product fees may apply.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

UK - LARGE ASSET BASED LENDER OF THE YEAR, RBS INVOICE FINANCE

RBS Invoice Finance (RBSIF) has been announced as the winner of the UK Large Asset Based Lender of the Year Award in the ACQ Magazine Global Awards 2013. This is the second award that RBSIF has secured in this year’s awards alongside the UK Invoice Finance Bank of the Year. RBSIF continue to lead the way in raising awareness of ABL and how it can support the growth of Corporates - organically and through acquisition activity. ABL is emerging as a strong mainstream form of debt financing in the UK which follows the developments seen in the United States. As a product ABL has evolved in sophistication and is widely accepted as a flexible and innovative funding option. The corporate finance community are also recognising the benefits of using ABL in acquisition activity. It can work well for private equity transactions and can complement other finance in the capital structure. Used on a standalone basis, ABL provides the management with greater control as it generally requires fewer covenants, increased flexibility and often carries pricing benefits. ABL is a business loan secured by collateral (assets), in the form of accounts receivable, inventory, machinery and equipment, and real property. It can be used to ease seasonal cash flow fluctuations whilst providing borrowers with more liquidity and fewer financial covenants. It also provides greater flexibility and control because as the underlying assets increase in value,

ACQ 133 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

the size of the facility can grow to accommodate the required funding. Chris Hawes, Director Corporate at RBS Invoice Finance explains: “ABL grows and evolves as the business does, offering headroom and flexibility. At RBSIF we are championing the way for ABL to be recognised as a mainstream lending product to help corporates and PLCs respond to new market opportunities and grow their businesses. Our position in this field is recognised through this award which comes on the back of another successful year of notable ABL deals including Benriach Distillery, Ainscough Group and Vitruvian Partners’ acquisition of Healthcare at Home to name but a few. We also continue to successfully recruit high calibre individuals with corporate lending experience to bring further strength to our ABL team. This allows us to work closely with our colleagues in the RBS Group to structure combinations of funding solutions to support organic growth and acquisition activity using both invoice finance and ABL structures. There is still much to done in spreading the word about ABL and we are delighted to have the opportunity to build upon the momentum of this award to lead the way in educating our clients and professional networks on the benefits this flexible funding option can present.” Security may be required. Product fees may apply.

Chris Hawes Director, Corporate RBS Invoice Finance 280 Bishopsgate London EC2M 4RB T + 44 (0) 20 7672 2593 E christopher.hawes@rbsif.co.uk

asset ingenuity

SIA Group provides a distinctive range of award winning asset valuation, advisory and disposal solutions to our client base of asset based lenders, banks, financial institutions, private equity firms, restructuring firms corporate and public bodies. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for loan collateral, mergers or acquisitions, restructuring or financial reporting purposes, our valuation and advisory services provide advice for all types of assets including receivables, inventory, machinery & equipment, intangibles and property. Contact Paul Craig on + 44 207 498 4900 or email paul.craig@sia-group.co.uk to find out how you can gain a competitive advantage from the thought leaders in asset sales and valuations.

www.sia-group.co.uk

WINNER

- ASSET DISPOSAL FIRM OF THE YEAR, SIA GROUP - PLANT & PROPERTY VALUATION PROVIDER OF THE YEAR, SIA GROUP - CORPORATE INSOLVENCY ADVISOR OF THE YEAR, SIA GROUP “Asset ingenuity” is SIA Group’s calling card. Experience, expertise and an innovative approach to understanding and providing solutions to often complex situations makes SIA Group the trusted asset appraiser of choice to asset based lenders, banks, private equity firms, financial institutions, restructuring firms and corporate entities. In 2012 its multi award winning asset valuation team conducted asset appraisals which supported many of the largest leveraged buyouts of UK mid-market companies and have worked on a wide range of high profile restructuring assignments to maximise value. Paul Craig, Head of SIA Group London office, cited its market awareness as a key enabler of success. He said” The valuation and appraisal business has changed dramatically since the collapse of the financial markets in the last five years. Asset based lending at the top end of the SME market has accelerated and private equity firms are now more pro-active in looking to their portfolio of companies to obtain an accurate gauge on asset values. We have invested in people who possess the unique combination of valuation, business analytical skills and work out experience supported by strong financial backgrounds to drive the business forward and pioneer the market. The group’s specialist knowledge of machinery and equipment, inventory and receivables is in demand from leading lending institutions and private equity firms driven by the need to understand risk exposure and a need to provide solutions to recover potential exposure”

SIA Group B65 New Covent Garden London SW8 5HH United Kingdom T + 44(0) 207 498 4900 www-sia-group.co.uk

Paul Craig T: +44 (0) 7712 790 744 E: paul.craig@sia-group.co.uk

The specialist team hails from a mix of industry and financial backgrounds and members of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) with considerable experience on providing asset appraisals for pan- European mergers and acquisitions and conducting complex asset work-out assignments whilst adhering to tight reporting deadlines. SIA Group’s asset appraisal reports are innovative, comprehensive and the advice delivered is based on market evidence which is thoroughly researched and professionally documented. Valuation advice is provided for the following situations amongst others: Ŕ Lending collateral

Ŕ Securitisation reviews

Ŕ Machinery & equipment

Ŕ Restructuring and turnaround

Ŕ Business planning

Ŕ Inventory

Ŕ Asset management

Ŕ Risk management

Ŕ Receivables

Matt Earl T: +44 (0) 07432 366 064 E: matt.earl@sia-group.co.uk

SALAMANDER GROUP

Welcome to Salamander The Salamander Group is an independent trust and company services group. We are licenced by the Financial Services Commission of the British Virgin Islands. Our Swiss based subsidiary is a member under the regulatory supervision of ARIF (Association Romande des Intermediaires Financiers), which is recognized by the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority. We focus on the core services associated with the formation and ongoing administration related to private wealth structures and collective investment funds. We aim to tailor our service offering to be

relevant in the face of a constantly evolving environment. Our objective is to be considered by each of our clients to be one of their most trusted, professional and relied upon advisers. Salamander is an owner managed business which enjoys complete independence. We work with many of the world’s leading institutions in banking, investment management, legal, tax and auditing. Our key strength is to bring the benefits of a highly experienced multi – disciplinary client focused team together for the benefit of our clients. This ensures that appropriate advisors and specialists can be selected for our clients as required free from potential conflicts of interests.

Our success to date is built upon the long term relationships which we have built with our clients. We take the trust which wh our clients have placed in us seriously. We repay that trust with integrity, competence and professionalism.

Contact: SALAMANDER SUISSE Leonard O’Brien Rue du Rhone 56 1204 Geneva leonard.obrien@salamanderinternational.com

Tel : +41 22 318 26 00 Fax : +41 22 318 26 01 www.salamanderinternational.com

WINNER

AUSTRIA SAXINGER, CHALUPSKY & PARTNER RECHTSANWÄLTE GMBH: - ANTI-CORRUPTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - TECHNOLOGY - MOST RESPECTED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR Saxinger, Chalupsky & Partner Rechtsanwälte GmbH (SCWP Schindhelm) is one of Austria’s leading CEEoperating law firms. Our roots date back to 1946. On the basis of this long-standing tradition, our focus is to provide comprehensive legal advice in all relevant fields of domestic and international business and commercial law through our specialized teams of lawyers.

We are not only experts at law, but also at identifying a client’s (legal) needs and at explaining and summarizing any legal problems and the respective tailored solutions therefore to our clients. We can thus proudly guarantee our clients the best possible legal advice.

With around 90 lawyers at the commercial centres of Graz, Linz, Wels and Vienna and the foreign offices in Bratislava, Brussels, Pilsen, Prague and Budapest, SCWP Schindhelm provides national and international clients with support in all areas of business law.

Saxinger, Chalupsky & Partner Rechtsanwälte GmbH (SCWP Schindhelm) is a member of the SCWP Schindhelm Services SE, alliance of European business law firms with offices in Central and Eastern Europe and Asia Pacific. With more than 150 lawyers in 18 commercial centres in 11 countries, the alliance members accompany national and international companies in all areas of business law. The offices of the alliance are located in: Bratislava, Wroclaw, Brussels, Budapest, Bucharest, Burgas, Graz, Hanover, Istanbul, Linz, Osnabrück, Pilsen, Prague, Shanghai, Sofia, Warsaw, Wels, Vienna

Our mission is to deliver creative and pragmatic legal solutions. Our challenge – and our source of inspiration – lies in offering our clients both, prompt and flexible legal services of the very highest standard, and understandable and easy solutions tailored to the client’s technical and/or commercial needs. Through our global network we can combine local expertise and know-how with our thorough expertise in the supervision and coordination of legal work in many different jurisdictions.

Alliance and Associated Offices

Saxinger Chalupsky & Partner Rechtsanwälte GmbH (SCWP Schindhelm) Linke Wienzeile 4/II/2 1060 Vienna Austria Tel: +43 1 9050100 Fax: +43 1 9050100 100 E : vienna@scwp.com www.scwp.com

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

UK - REGIONAL ACCOUNTANCY FIRM OF THE YEAR, SMITH COOPER Smith Cooper is one of the largest and most reputable independently owned accountancy and business advisory firms for mid-corporate and owner managed businesses across the Midlands. The firm has offices in six localities including core offices in Birmingham, Derby and Nottingham, has 20 partners and employs over 150 staff. As an owner-managed business ourselves, we fully appreciate the needs and concerns of our clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; businesses. We specialise in providing bespoke advisory services to corporate and individual clients wanting a long term relationship. We take time to ascertain your personal and corporate goals, and to analyse and understand your business and its specific needs. We then design bespoke, flexible and innovative solutions to help you achieve your aspirations. The firm offers a broad range of services so that we can deliver what your business needs. These services and the Divisional Heads include: Ĺ&#x201D; "DDPVOUJOH BOE DPNQMJBODF Paul Duffin Ĺ&#x201D; "VEJU BOE BTTVSBODF Janet Morgan Ĺ&#x201D; #VTJOFTT BEWJTPSZ David Nelson Ĺ&#x201D; #VTJOFTT SFTUSVDUVSJOH SFTDVF BOE JOTPMWFODZ Dean Nelson Ĺ&#x201D; $PSQPSBUF ĹŁOBODF John Farnsworth

ACQ 137 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

Ĺ&#x201D; )3 Viv Tolley Ĺ&#x201D; *OEFQFOEFOU ĹŁOBODJBM BEWJDF Richard Garside Ĺ&#x201D; *5 DPOTVMUBODZ BOE TZTUFNT TVQQPSU Paul Howard & Richard Brewster Ĺ&#x201D; 1BZSPMM Ann Riley Ĺ&#x201D; 5BY DPNQMJBODF DPOTVMUBODZ BOE 7"5 Jackie Hendley Ĺ&#x201D; 5SBOTBDUJPO TVQQPSU Simon Flear The Smith Cooper team is made up of experienced experts, many with big 4 backgrounds, that have innovative â&#x20AC;&#x153;can doâ&#x20AC;? attitudes. Our service delivery is partner led and offers solutions and services specifically designed for your organisation. Our close working relationships with clients and ease of access to partners, directors and managers, enables the timely, cost effective delivery of quality advice and implementation assistance that make a real difference. Smith Cooper is the ACQ Regional Accountancy Firm of the Year (2013), have been Deal of the Year Finalists in Insider Dealmaker Awards and Accountancy Awards, and have Microsoft Gold and Sage Platinum partner accreditation amongst others. We also have overseas reach through our membership of the International Alliott Group.

For further information about Smith Cooper and the services they offer call 01332 332021, or to speak to a dedicated expert or visit www.smithcooper.co.uk

WINNER

ITALY - CORPORATE & COMMERCIAL LITIGATION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - Studio Legale Sutti

Studio Legale Sutti, established in 1953 by Dr. Angelo Sutti, KIR, a leading commercial litigator of his generation, is today one of the largest full-service business law firms in Italy, with a strong emphasis on excellence in contentious and para-contentious work throughout the Italian and Balkanian jurisdictions,

by not least, recognition and enforcement of foreign judgments.

and is routinely instructed as a consequence by its clients, their in-house counsel and their solicitors, to assist in all kinds of litigation, arbitration and mediation, namely in civil, commercial and criminal courts; in appeals; before tax, antitrust and trade authorities; before administrative, regulatory and disciplinary tribunals; and in mock trials for demonstrative or educational purposes.

Several of Studio Legale Sutti’s members are admitted in multiple jurisdictions, are heard before local Supreme Courts, and are recognised scholars and authors in the fields of advocacy, civil procedure, litigation strategy, law of evidence, etc., and/or generally recommended by specialised international media and directories, besides undergoing strict internal training and continuing education programmes on subjects ranging from advocacy to theory of games to presentation techniques, from Harvard risk-tree analysis to rhetorics to neuro-linguistic programming.

The typical matters concerned include complex corporate disputes, commercial litigation and arbitrations, ADR, administrative proceedings, procedures before local and European patent and trademark offices, tax disputes, competition issues, white-collar criminal defence and prosecution, internal investigations, anticounterfeiting, debt recovery, creditors’ rights in insolvency-related matters, local discovery and deposition of witnesses and, last

Studio Legale Sutti’s services in this area are rendered, under flexible and negotiable terms, in strict cooperation with final clients and their personnel and consultants. The firm is capable to communicate with them in most European languages, and profits from its contemporary nature of a multidisciplinary practice that includes in its human resources forensic accountants, patent attorneys, ITC specialists, investigators and tax advisors.

Studio Legale Sutti Headquarters: Via Montenapoleone 8, 20121 Milan, Italy. Also in Rome, Genoa, Venice, Bergamo, Monza, Abbiategrasso, Sofia, Bucharest, Belgrade, Zagreb, London and Tokyo. Central Switchboard: +39 02 762041 E-mail: maildesk@sutti.com.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

ITALY - INTERNATIONAL COMMERCIAL LITIGATION ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR - Studio Legale Sutti

by not least, recognition and enforcement of foreign judgments.

WINNER

CYPRUS - ISLAMIC LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, Tassos Papadopoulos & Associates

Tassos Papadopoulos & Associates LLC is one of the leading law firms in Cyprus that provides a full range of legal services. The Firm is professionally committed to providing high quality and cost-effective legal services, a fact which is reflected through its valued clientele. The firm’s objective and commitment is to provide high quality, speedy response and costeffective legal services and to meet the demands of the modern specialized legal practice with special emphasis on confidentiality. In transactional and non-contentious business, the focus of the firm’s work is in banking and finance, corporate law, financial services, acquisitions of companies and property, public tenders, mergers and joint ventures, the financing of major capital projects, IPOs and public listings.

local and international building and engineering contractors, pharmaceutical companies, medical equipment companies, shipping enterprises, local and international information technology companies, publicly listed companies, investment firms, insurance companies, professional firms, large business concerns in commerce, tourism, hotels, general trade, oil and other fields. The firm has also advised on mergers of insurance companies in Cyprus and acted in takeover work by venture capital firms. The firm has regularly represented local and international companies before the Cyprus Competition Commission on competition law issues arising out of takeover, joint venture and merger agreements as well as in alleged cartel cases.

Nicos Papaefstathiou CEO and Managing Partner

In the area of litigation, the firm has a very strong team of highly experienced litigation lawyers in every major field of civil litigation and arbitration including banking and finance, competition, corporate and commercial, construction, insurance, and contracts.

The Firm maintains an extensive experience in public procurement law. It has acted for economic operators in the biggest BOT projects on the island (Airport and Marina Projects) and is currently acting on behalf of economic operators or financing agents in the biggest projects ever undertaken on the island.

Tassos Papadopoulos & Associates LLC 2 Sofouli Street, Chanteclair Building, 1096 Nicosia, Cyprus

The clientele of the firm includes local and international banking institutions, semi-governmental organizations including the Cyprus Stock Exchange, municipalities and other local authorities, individuals,

Being proud of its highly experienced team of lawyers both in corporate and litigation fields, the Firm ensures that all clients needs are met by offering highly professional legal services.

E npapaefstathiou@tplaw.com.cy E meliades@tplaw.com.cy E apapadopoulos@tplaw.com.cy

ACQ 139 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

T (+357) 22 889 999 F (+357) 22 889 988

www.tplaw.com.cy

WINNER

IRELAND - INVESTMENT FUND OF THE YEAR - THE QUALIFYING INVESTOR FUND (QIF), THE IRISH FUNDS INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION Ireland AIFMD Ready and leading the way as managers increasingly turn to the QIF Having previously provided the first onshore regulated product for hedge funds, it is both fitting and highly consistent that Ireland is also leading in the practical implementation of AIFMD. That foresight is paying off. The Irish Qualifying Investor Fund (QIF) is considered the most AIFMD-ready product on the market. Managers are increasingly turning to the QIF in preparation for AIFMD with total assets having doubled since April 2009 when the first draft of AIFMD was published. Ireland has been leading the way on AIFMD. In October 2012, The Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) released a public consultation proposing significant enhancements to its non-UCITS regime in preparation for the implementation of the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive (AIFMD). In February 2013, Ireland became the first country in Europe to provide detail around the Alternative Fund Management Directive (AIFMD) regime following the publication by the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) of its updated Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) Handbook.

Then, most recently, The Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) announced that Ireland had become the first centre ready to accept applications under the AIFM allowing alternative investment fund managers (AIFMs) to seek authorisation under the new AIFMD. Ireland is the number one centre for hedge funds globally servicing almost half the globe’s assets, so, perhaps, it is not that surprising that we are continuously looking ahead and planning for the future. AIFMD is not only about ensuring that we are ready to implement the directive in as hassle free way as possible for managers but crucially about looking at the directive holistically. That is why we have been actively engaged with managers around the world looking at the overall effect of the AIFMD on their businesses to assist them in planning for these changes. And that is why the QIF is increasingly popular with managers – it provides them the solutions they need with a proven track record and a minimum of fuss. And, that allows them to get on with and grow their business. It’s a perfect partnership.

AIFMD 10th Floor One George’s Quay Plaza George’s Quay Dublin 2 T +353 (0) 1 675 3200 F +353 (0)1 675 3210 E info@irishfunds.ie

WINNER

GREECE - INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - Theo V. Sioufas & Co. Law Offices Theo V. Sioufas & Co. Law Offices is a Greek international law firm, with offices located in Greece (Piraeus and Athens) and China (Shanghai). Founded in 1971, the Firm has evolved from two original partners to more than twenty-five specialized attorneys, making it one of Greece’s largest and most reputable law firms of international scope. The Firm has fourteen partners, several associate-partners, associates and trainee lawyers, all of whom are highly proficient in English, and most of them have advanced language skills in French, German, Italian, Spanish and Chinese. In addition to their training in Greece, many of our lawyers have also obtained legal education and experience in the U.S.A., England and France and have practiced with law firms in these countries. Through access to multilingual facilities, the Firm is ideally equipped to serve clients irrespectively of their linguistic orientation, spanning from Arabic to Japanese. As the Firm has evolved over decades, its practice has become increasingly diverse. Its clients fall into three principal groups: Greek institutional and corporate entities and individuals

conducting business in Greece and abroad; international companies engaged in business across one or more national jurisdictions; and international banks involved in shipping finance, private banking, corporate advisory services, recapitalizations and other forms of financing. The principal areas of the Firm’s practice include admiralty and shipping law, commercial, corporate, trading and employment law, banking, finance, (marine) insurance and stock exchange law, takeovers, mergers, acquisitions, contracts law, civil and commercial litigation, arbitration, investment and realty law, legal enforcement of decrees, judgements, court orders etc and general practice. The Firm implements transactions and deals involving clients world-wide. A number of clients have retained the Firm to monitor and expedite legal aspects of their world-wide operations. The Firm has established a wide international network of correspondent relationships with overseas law offices throughout the globe, thus enabling it to act swiftly and efficiently in client matters, whenever and wherever required. From left to right: Panagos G. Anagnostopoulos, Vassilios C. Sioufas, Constantinos G. Emmanuel, Ekaterini S. Konidari, Theo V. Sioufas, Charalambos V. Sioufas, Paul V. Sioufas, Michael G. Rapsomanikis, Aris D. Vourdas, Vassilios P. Sioufas

Theo V. Sioufas & Co. Law Offices Alassia Building 13 Defteras Merarchias Street GR 185 35 Piraeus Greece T (+30 210) 422 1210 F (+30 210) 422 5090 / 422 5146 E info@sioufas.com www.sioufas.com Athens Office: 26 Vassilisis Amalias Avenue Athens GR 105 57 Greece T (+30 210) 3644 100 F (+30 210) 3604 954 E info@sioufas.com www.sioufas.com Shanghai Office: 3/F, Silver Court Office Tower 85 Taoyuan Road Shanghai PC 200021 People’s Republic of China T (+30 212) 2132060 T (+86 213) 353 6022 M (+86) 1822 1740 664 E dps@sioufas-china.com

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

FRANCE - INDEPENDENT FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR – UGGC AVOCATS UGGC law firm has become a leading independent law firm in France. With offices in 4 geopolitical zones (Europe, Africa, Asia and the Middle-East) and an established network of correspondents, the firm is well positioned to offer a fully international service to its clientele. The firm has more than 100 lawyers, including 32 partners, and an overall staff of nearly 150 people, with almost a third of its lawyers working overseas. UGGC law firm assists its clients - private companies, public bodies and individuals - across a wide range of legal and tax practice areas. Every partner is renowned in his field and together they form a cohesive team of experts covering all areas of business law. UGGC law firm is a Professional Civil Partnership. The choice of this legal status for the firm reflects a team spirit which enables the lawyers to develop and pool their expertise in the sole interest of their clients. Thanks to the trust of its clients and the stability of its teams, the firm has enjoyed significant and steady growth in terms of staff and turnover for 20 years, without any cyclical effect. Such growth is the result of our determination to cover all areas of law and to be able to draw on the

ACQ 141 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

expertise of structured teams in each of these areas. Within UGGC law firm, in addition to providing clients full service provision for all their legal and fiscal needs, each department serves clients in their specialized area, ensuring their growth and development. In this way we are able to offer each individual client top-tier services in all areas of the law as well as providing stable teams to handle their cases. Practice Areas: Ŕ .FSHFST "DRVJTJUJPOT Ŕ 1SJWBUF &RVJUZ Ŕ #BOLJOH BOE 'JOBODF Ŕ 5BY -BX Ŕ &NQMPZNFOU -BX Ŕ #VTJOFTT 1VCMJD -BX Ŕ &OWJSPONFOUBM -BX Ŕ 3FBM &TUBUF -BX Ŕ $PNQFUJUJPO -BX Ŕ &VSPQFBO MBX Ŕ *OUFMMFDUVBM QSPQFSUZ Ŕ *OTPMWFODZ MBX Ŕ -JUJHBUJPO "SCJUSBUJPO Ŕ )FBMUI -BX BOE )FBMUI 1SPEVDUT Ŕ 1SJWBUF $MJFOUT Ŕ *OUFSOBUJPOBM JOWFTUNFOUT Ŕ "SU NBSLFU MBX

WINNER

UK - ENVIRONMENTAL DUE DILIGENCE ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR, URS INFRASTRUCTURE & ENVIRONMENT UK LIMITED

Adding value throughout the entire transaction cycle URS’ award-winning UK Transactions and Compliance team has over 20 years’ experience providing environmental, health and safety, sustainability, technical and operational due diligence support services for a wide range of transactions worldwide, from small-to-mid market deals to multibillion Euro acquisitions. Working predominantly for industrial and financial clients across the full range of industrial and commercial sectors, we are recognised for our breadth and depth of technical knowledge, our pragmatic, business-focused approach and for our rapid turnaround of individual assets and global portfolios during the due diligence programme. Our team of around 1,000 professionals is supported by URS’ global network of scientists, engineers and experts across all major disciplines. We support and resolve transactions and compliance issues, as well as advising on liabilities, associated costs, risk

mitigation approaches and technologies during transactions and post deal completion. We help clients integrate newly acquired businesses into their existing operations and manage residual liabilities associated with divested or acquired businesses and assets. Building on our extensive experience of providing due diligence services across Western Europe, North America and China, URS has seen a rapid increase in demand for due diligence support services from clients investing in the growth economies of Eastern Europe, South America and India. URS supports clients by assessing the impact of different or emerging legislation and regional variances in approaches to risk management, particularly in the context of integration into an existing global business. We also support the informed purchase, value-added and clean exit model of our financial clients.

For more information, please contact: Nick Howard, UK Transactions Practice Leader T: +44(0) 161 237 6050 E: Nick.Howard@urs.com

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

ITALY - INTERNATIONAL TAX LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, VALENTE ASSOCIATI GEB PARTNERS - TRANSFER PRICING LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, VALENTE ASSOCIATI GEB PARTNERS Valente Associati GEB Partners (www.gebpartners.it) is one of the leading Italian consultancy firms operating in the area of international taxation for strategic planning of business structuring and organization. The firm provides services through a team of experts based in Milan and Turin working with correspondents in the most important cities in Italy and around the world. The firm has been selected by premier Italian companies as well as European and other multinational corporations for consulting services related to the formation of transnational acquisition scenarios, strategic tax planning, and the optimization of foreign investments as well as operating intercompany flows. Valente Associati GEB Partners’ dynamic, innovative, and client-centric approach provides world-class consultancy of integrated services that meets the particular requirements and anticipates the needs of each and every client. The firm’s highly qualified advisors are committed to solving even the most complex issues of both multinational conglomerates and medium-sized enterprises. The combination of keen know-how and problem-solving aptitudes of Valente Associati GEB Partners consultants provides 360° “coverage” for clients. The firm’s name regularly appears at the top of annual review listings including the main areas spotlighted in the

International Tax Review and several other specialized publications. The forerunner, founder, and managing partner of the practice is internationally renowned professor and author Piergiorgio Valente. Tax policy expert and active member of various professional associations, Prof. Valente currently serves as Chairman of the Confédération Fiscale Européenne’s Fiscal Committee (http://www.cfe-eutax.org/), the International Association of Financial Executives Institute’s International Tax Committee (http://www.iafei.org), and the Italian CFO Association’s Tax Committee (ANDAF, www.andaf.it). He is also CFE Representative to the Platform for Tax Good Governance of the European Commission (2013-2015) and Vice Chairman of the Business and Industry Advisory Committee’s Taxation and Fiscal Policy Committee to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (http://www. biac.org/policygrp/profile-tax.htm). Professor Valente teaches advanced courses on EU and Supranational Taxation for the Italian Tax Police and lectures on Taxation of Multinational Enterprises at the Second University of Studies in Naples, the Link Campus University in Rome, and the Superior Institute of the Ministry of Economy and Finance.

Piergiorgio Valente Managing Partner Valente Associati GEB Partners Viale Bianca Maria, 45 20122 Milan, Italy T +39 02 7626131 F +39 02 76001091 E p.valente@gebnetwork.it

WINNER

SLOVAKIA - LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR – VÁLKY PARTNERS s.r.o

The law office VÁLKY PARTNERS s.r.o. has been present on the market since 2003. The firm’s managing partner Ladislav Války studied law both in Bratislava, Slovak Republic and at Suffolk University Law School, Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A. Ladislav Války being also the founder of the firm has represented, since the firm’s establishment in 2003, number of multi-national companies in many M&A transactions and projects throughout the Slovak Republic including the cross-border transactions. Since January 2009 the firm has been operating and providing its legal services as a limited liability company and under the current business name since March 2013. VÁLKY PARTNERS s.r.o. provides a full set of legal services in issues involving Slovak and EU law to local as well as to international

ACQ 143 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

clients tailored to the client needs and focuses mainly on the commercial law and corporate law, M&A, law of contracts, dispute resolution, real estate law. To help the clients to satisfy their needs and to deliver legal services tailored to the clients’ individual requirements, the law office uses experience and knowledge gained during years of working on various types of business transactions including M&A transactions. The law office has knowledge, overview and experience not only in local law, culture and trade, but also in cross-border and international legal issues and transactions. The law office VÁLKY PARTNERS s.r.o. provides professional and pragmatic solutions to the clients’ legal matters.

Ladislav Války - Managing Partner E ladislav.valky@valkypartners.sk VÁLKY PARTNERS s.r.o. Law Office Muškátová 36 821 01 Bratislava Slovakia T +421 905 941 274 E office@valkypartners.sk www.valkypartners.sk

WINNER

NETHERLANDS - MID MARKET CORPORATE FINANCE ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR - VAN OERS CORPORATE FINANCE Van Oers Corporate Finance is a mid market M&A firm in the Netherlands. Van Oers Corporate Finance assists their clients on both sell- and buy-side transactions (acquisitions, MBO’s), provides access to capital markets and assists on all sorts of company valuations. On a yearly basis Van Oers Corporate Finance is involved in approximately 30 to 40 national and international transactions.

a detailed plan of approach, is nowadays more a must than an additional advantage to become an interesting investment opportunity for both strategic buyers and private equity firms. During the M&A process this upside potential continuously needs to be reconfirmed by interim monthly figures. A careful and professional approach and independent high quality advice is vital to complete these transactions successfully.

Over the last 12 months Van Oers Corporate Finance company has been involved in notable deals such as the divestment of Protekt to the the London Stock Exchange listed G4S, multiple add-ons to the Dutch leading Dental Chain DentConnect and various valuation projects for the Pon Automotive Group who is consolidating the Dutch car dealer market for Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, Seat and Skoda at the moment.

With a team of 10 professionals, Van Oers Corporate Finance has a broad and thorough sector expertise, and is yearly ranked at the top of the professional listings in national and international surveys. As part of the Leading Edge Alliance network, with offices in more than 90 countries, Van Oers has a strong international presence.

According to Sander Collé, partner at Van Oers Corporate Finance, the M&A activity is recovering in an investment climate that is still stiff in our point of view. We experience that in addition to an outstanding track record, the future upside potential of targets, shown in

The assistance provided by the M&A consultants of Van Oers, who all have extensive experience and specific expertise, can be summarized in two words: dedicated and professional. The 24/7 approach is explained in more detail on the website www.vanoers-cf.com. In addition you can find references and inspiring stories from our customers.

Sander Collé - Partner

Alexander den Boer - Partner VAN OERS CORPORATE FINANCE PO Box 2039 4800 CA BREDA T 0031 76 5303 800 www.vanoers-cf.com

WINNER

POLAND - COMMERCIAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - WBW Weremczuk Bobel & Partners WBW Weremczuk Bobel & Partners as the law firm founded by the partners deriving from the international law firms specializes in providing comprehensive legal services to foreign companies operating on Polish market and foreign investors entering the Polish market. With its wellestablished position WBW Weremczuk Bobel & Partners is one of the most rapidly developing law firms in Poland. It is known for high quality legal services and partners’ direct involvement in and commitment to work for the clients. Professionals The firm’s three partners – Lukasz Bobel, Krzysztof Weremczuk and Michal Gniatkowski – lead a group of over fifteen associates who form a motivated team of legal experts. The firm’s lawyers are capable of assisting the clients in Polish, English, German, French and Spanish. Practices WBW Weremczuk Bobel & Partners provides a package of comprehensive legal services for business clients, ensuring support in all areas of

clients’ business operations. Depending on the complexity and client’s specific demands, legal service is performed by an individual specialist or by a project team. The firm’s strongest practice areas include Corporate and M&A, Banking and Finance, Commercial Contracts, Capital Markets, Employment, Intellectual Property, Real Estate Law. Global reach The Firm has been recognized number of times between 2010 and 2013 as the leading Polish law firm in M&A and Banking&Finance by the readers of reputable finance and law international magazines. The Firm has been also steadily recognized in the above areas by Legal500 and IFLR1000. WBW Weremczuk Bobel & Partners cooperates with number of foreign law firms from all over the world, thanks to which it can provide its clients with legal support also in all European jurisdictions, in North America, South America, Africa, Australia, China and the Middle East.

WBW Weremczuk Bobel & Partners ul. Limanowskiego 29/3, 60-744 Poznań T +48 61 8 510 700 F +48 61 8 510 800 www.wbwlegal.pl

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

IRELAND - INSURANCE & REINSURANCE - MOST RESPECTED LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR William Fry’s dedicated Insurance Department is consistently regarded as the market leader in Ireland on insurance (both life and non-life) and reinsurance matters. This multi-disciplinary team has provided legal, regulatory and tax expertise in some of the largest and most complex insurance transactions in recent years. Our head of practice, John Larkin, is a member of An Taoiseach’s (Irish Prime Minister’s) IFSC Insurance Group. The practice represents clients in all sectors of the insurance industry. Areas of expertise include: Ŕ Mergers, acquisitions and joint ventures Ŕ Licensing and authorisation of new operations including side-cars Ŕ Passporting of insurance and reinsurance activities Ŕ Restructuring and portfolio transfers Ŕ Risk securitisations (life and non-life) Ŕ Redomiciles, cross border mergers and acquisitions Ŕ Assisting clients on Solvency II compliance issues Ŕ Regulatory investigations Ŕ Insurance litigation and dispute resolution Ŕ Key document review and product advisory work Ŕ Compliance and corporate governance Ŕ Captive operations Ŕ Authorisation and supervision of intermediaries

Our Contentious Insurance Group understands that the unique considerations and complexities of insurance disputes require incisive technical but also commercially driven legal advice. The Contentious Insurance Group offers a dedicated, specialist service with in-depth insurance law expertise focused on meeting the demands of the insurance industry. Our high calibre lawyers have extensive experience of contentious insurance matters in Ireland and the London Market making us a premier contentious insurance practice. The Group’s core expertise includes advising on policy coverage, the defence of claims, pursing subrogated recoveries, handling fraudulent claims and drafting policies in the following insurance sectors: Ŕ Engineering, Construction and Energy Ŕ Professional Indemnity Ŕ Public Liability Ŕ Product Liability and Recall Ŕ Commercial and Residential Property Damage Ŕ Commercial Risk and Business Interruption Ŕ Reinsurance Ŕ Directors & Officers and Errors & Omissions Insurance Ŕ Financial lines, including Market Risk and Fidelity Guarantee cover Ŕ Agriculture Ŕ Local Authority

William Fry Fitzwilton House Wilton Place Dublin 2 Ireland T +353 1 639 5000 www.williamfry.ie

WINNER

UK - REGIONAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR (SOUTH WEST) - Wollen Michelmore LLP

Wollen Michelmore was established in 2011 from two of the leading South Devon Law Firms and now has 13 partners, 120 staff and 4 offices in South Devon. With over 300 years of combined experience, Wollen Michelmore is leading the way in delivering legal services in the South Devon region.

Awards recognising the service excellence provided in this area of law. Winning ACQ Global Regional Law Firm of the year 2013 tops what has been a truly remarkable year for the firm by way of awards and external recognition, and confirms the firm’s reputation as a serious regional legal entity.

The firm is a traditional high street practice, offering property, private client, family, dispute resolution and corporate and commercial services. The firm also has a financial services company called Wollen Michelmore Financial Planning.

Wollen Michelmore not only offers the most highly skilled advice based on excellent local knowledge, but clear pricing, quick appointments and face to face contact. We give easy to understand, straightforward advice, taking the stress out of tough situations.

In 2011 the firm won “Most innovative company” in the South Devon Business awards, and in 2013 the firm won “Licensing Firm of the year in England” in the INTL Legal

ACQ 145 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

Outstanding client care is at the heart of the firm’s business strategy along with a deep passion for community involvement.

Clive Meredith (Practice Director) Wollen Michelmore Solicitors Carlton House 30 The Terrace Torquay TQ1 1BS T 01803 213251 E enquries@wollenmichelmore.co.uk www.wollenmichelmore.co.uk Twitter @wmlegal

WINNER

SERBIA - INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - Zivko Mijatovic and Partners

ZMP is a full service Intellectual Property

Zivko Mijatovic & Partners offers a full

Law Firm. Through the network of ZMP

range of intellectual property services in

Offices across Central and Eastern Europe they are able to provide overall protection of all Intellectual Property rights including

the areas of patents, designs, copyright and trademarks as well as in the field of Commercial Law.

Zivko Mijatovic & Partners P.O. Box 526 11001 Belgrade Serbia Air Courier Address: Svetogorska 7 11000 Belgrade Serbia

both prosecution and enforcement of

Services

such rights. Further, ZMP’s Alicante Office

ZMP’s offices provide legal assistance

F +381 11 3341 792

is able to provide all legal services in

and advice in protection of IP rights,

E Address:patents@zm-p.com

relation to European

management and enforcement of the

www.zm-p.com

Community Trademarks (CTMs) and

same across Central Eastern Europe.

Registered Community Designs (RCDs).

Services provided by ZMP include filing

ZMP’s constant presence in all the

and prosecution of IP rights, search

countries of Central Eastern Europe,

and watching service, IP portfolio

allows them to provide the clients with

management, handling of conflicts;

immediate and simultaneous service in

advice and representation in infringement

different countries of the region, by simply

and enforcement matters. ZMP is

contacting one of the offices. That is why

particularly active in providing expert

the service which ZMP provides is unique

advice and legal assistance in the matters

in the region.

of counterfeit and piracy.

Our Office History

ZMP and its attorneys are authorized to

The law firm was established in 1939 in

represent the clients before the judicial

Belgrade, Yugoslavia as a general practice

authorities, before the Intellectual

law firm. It has grown progressively and today, it consists of 12 offices in 11 European countries. The service is provided through the network

Property Offices, before the Customs Offices and before different administrative authorities of the countries where they have their offices.

of ZMP offices which cover the Balkan

YOUR INTELLECTUAL Property CHOICE

Peninsula and Central Eastern Europe.

Prosecution & Litigation of Trademarks,

Over the last thirty years, ZMP’s primary

T +381 11 3341 771 +381 11 3341 797

Patents and Designs

activity has been the protection, via prosecution and litigation, of all Intellectual Property rights.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WE WERE VOTED BECAUSE CLIENT CARE COMES FIRST * Zivko Mijatovic and Partners, Serbia was voted as a winner of International Law Office Client Choice Award for 2011 by individual assessment of corporate counsel across the world

ACQ 147 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

SAUDI ARABIA - HOLDING GROUP OF THE YEAR, ABDULLATIF ALISSA GROUP HOLDING COMPANY

Diversification subsidizes progressively to the business community, by expanding and supporting the overall operations and future strategies that contributes to growth, and creates a competitive advantage in the market place. This is how the business arena in KSA market evolves. A country with diverse and promising opportunities throughout its four local regional economies and evolving business infrastructure in terms of core and maturity makes strategic pillars to any upcoming economic challenges nationally, regionally and globally. Saudi Arabia today comprises on multiple business categories, such as such oil, transportation, real estate development, agriculture, financial institutions and trade. Such diversification plays an important role in the sustained economic stability and increase a healthy competition throughout the overall multiple industries in the country. Today, Abdullatif Alissa Group Holding Company “AAGH”, which is a strategic player of the Saudi market growth and its diverse business infrastructure is the 10th among top 100 regional companies in the Arab World, ranked by Forbes magazine the world’s leading providers of reliable business news and financial information. AAGH is an unlisted private group, operating in KSA and the Arab world, with a particular focus to the social development contribution, charities and charitable, which work to support economic growth in home country and the region. The criteria for the ranking included transparency in financial information in terms of operations and business results, quality of sustainable CSR programs, global presence and size, the number of years of trading, social interactivity, charitable initiatives and the size of the CSR and overall expenditures. Since AAGH’s inception by the late Sheikh Abdullatif Al Issa in the 1940’s, the Company has evolved substantially from its original focus in textiles and foodstuff trading. Today AAGH is a diversified conglomerate with annual revenue exceeding SAR 4 billion and around 3,000 employees. As well as importing world-class motor vehicles into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the company also incorporates servicing, financing and leasing services. AAGH has further diversified its investments and business development activities within the industrial and real estate sectors. AAGH have continuously maintained the interest in exploring and developing multiple growing sectors at group level such as real estate investment and business development among others, and specific subsidiaries such as automotive and consumer finance. Mr. Nasser Al Qahtani has been leading AAGH for over a decade. With over 20 years of working experience and due

to his financial and management expertise, Mr. Al Qahtani guided the financial destiny of AAGH before taking office as CEO in 2008 – and still holds. Aimed to transform AAGH with his leadership and strategic planning, to one of the biggest conglomerate in Saudi Arabia and the region and still. Thereby inspiring the drive of the Kingdom’s business and economic growth, and exploring opportunities for sustainable business, CSR initiatives that create community and people development. Over the years, Mr. Nasser along with the Board of Directors have adapted a concrete business strategy to the changing demands of the Saudi economy, and transformed Abdullatif Alissa Group Holding operations into a large portfolio of businesses including: Best Rent a Car, Al Yusr Financing company , the National General Automotive Company (NAT), General Automotive company (GACO) AutoStar, Alissa Universal Motors (AUM), Abdullatif Alissa Automotive company (AACO) and real estate company (REC) as well as diversified private equity portfolio. According to Mr. Al Qahtani, “Influence, not authority, and making others follow gladly and confidently are the keys of effective leadership. Actually, good leader doesn’t need to be more concerned with reports than with “the change” itself. I believe that true leadership is the art of changing the visions into reality. One of the secrets behind any leader’s success is how to know people around him and select the reliable wise people to surround himself with.”

Automotive AAGH is widely recognized as a pioneer in the automotive and transportation industries for over five decades. Over the years the company vision exceeded being a dealer and a car distributor to consumer oriented operations and strategy, to maintain a long lasting relationship, and going beyond dealership to provide what is the most convenient and to understand his life style for generations ahead. Abdullatif Alissa Automotive Company (AACO), has progressively stepped a challenging and positive strategic moves with an aggressive commercial operations, and this is based on their on-going strategic business development for the existing businesses and the planning that AAGH management is keen to adapt continuously. AAGH, proceeds in putting a solid efforts to acquire a new long term dealership agreements with a global automotive brand, which has materialized with the giant automotive manufacturer NISSAN to be the sole agent in KSA. NISSAN selection of AAGH came based on its historical business reputation all over the Kingdom and MENA region, and the long term experience that the group maintained throughout the years.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

As for AUM, the sole agent for â&#x20AC;&#x153;Isuzuâ&#x20AC;? in Saudi Arabia since 1985 has led a strategic market share in KSA by achieving 5% of the total automotive market sales in the Kingdom. Based on its outstanding operations achievements, AUM had an income growth of 30% in 2012 compared with 2011. The accomplishments have followed by Autostar, which is operating since 1998 in the Kingdom that selling various global brands in agreement with automotive distributors in the Kingdom. Autostar maintained its unique status in such a competitive market with solid progressive operations in after sales services, spare parts offerings, and the strategic business relationship with the automotive distributors and dealers. Such operation has resulted with an income growth of 22% in 2012 compared with 2011. Best Rent a Car, which is operating since 1980 made the difference. The company with a fleet of over 11,000 vehicles in 2012 has achieved an annual growth of 16%.

Consumer Finance Consumer is a primary strategy for AAGH, and adapted by all subsidiaries, such as Al Yusr Installment Company. It is the third biggest consumer finance company in the Saudi Arabia, dedicated on fulfilling the needs of all customers, receiving their remarks and creating the best to improve its performance progressively. In its 2 decades of growth has helped thousands of loan seekers and businesses to fulfill their needs. Al Yusr offers lease to own contracts and installment contracts targeting a diverse consumer base and institutions across KSA through Shariah compliant financing structures. Al Yusr has been ranked number 11 in the top fastest growing companies in 2010 in KSA and is considered as the third largest independent automotive financing house in the Kingdom known for its innovative and competitive financing options.

leveraging existing assets. From the car industry success to various business areas, the group is expanding its strategy to explore new opportunities in multiple promising business sectors and asset classes in privately held companies, public equity investments, funds and real estates. The investments sector at AAGH is managed in a structured and focused manner by the investment & business development division (IBDD). IBDD mandate, operations and business model is aimed at creating long-term strategic and financial value. And primarily focuses on the following asset classes: new business development, private equity, venture capital, green field projects, financial investments and real estate investments and development. AAGH owns a very significant portfolio of land and real estate developments across the Kingdom mainly, GGC and MENA region. Such properties are under constant development for the purpose of sale or lease hence giving rise to long term sustainable revenue streams. Our prime focus is in developing specialist real estate assets such as warehouses that currently the group is developing a project of 100 million square meters and an industrial city of 100 million square meters, workshops and other commercial real estate projects. In addition, a focus on consumer retail, Building materials, plastic conversion and downstream petrochemical. Mr Al Qahtani believes by doing this, that IBDD division adds strategic value to AAGH by establishing a strong presence in the investment and business community in KSA and beyond, through following streamlined and seamless processes, and continuously seeking industry best practices thereby granting all shareholders unique investment opportunities to add value with continual oversight thereafter.

The company has performed gigantic works which helped in achieve continuous growth over the years. Year 2102 was an outstanding financial progress for Al Yusr Installement Company in terms of revenue and profit. The company has a portfolio of over SAR 4.5 billion, 100,000 active contracts, which results a 20% growth annually. Furthermore, Al Yusr is looking at diversification into new underlying assets to serve the needs of an even larger consumer base, and will also be expanding its presence all over the KSA market to acquire ne segments and increase its customer base, consumer and SME.

Investments AAGH understands that its prosperity is not a given, but can only achieved through intelligent diversification and

ACQ 149 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

Mr. Nasser Al Qahtani Group CEO

SAUDI ARABIA - HOLDING GROUP OF THE YEAR, ABDULLATIF ALISSA GROUP HOLDING COMPANY

Role

Responsibilities

Strategy Building

We help define AAGH’s investment and corporate development strategy, keeping long term objectives in mind.

Market trends

We continuously monitor economic sectors, industries, trends, regulations & markets to evaluate attractiveness and supply/demand gaps on a Group level for that of our affiliated businesses & subsidiaries.

Research & Analysis

We create business plans, feasibility studies, due diligence reports, valuations and risk assessments, and perform specialized studies.

Investment Management Process

We identify, evaluate, recommend, plan and lead the execution of potential new business opportunities through mergers, acquisition, partnerships greenfield opportunities and joint ventures. We then implement AAGH’s investment strategy across investment asset classes through the full lifecycle - from entry to successful exit.

Portfolio Mentoring & Monitoring

We monitor the performance of the entire Group and its portfolio companies from a strategic and financial perspective on a regular basis. Being an integral, yet autonomous body of AAGH, we tend to take an objective view without losing sight of short-term priorities & long-term goals.

Real Estate Investment Sector Considering the real estate investment is the most driving economic pillar worldwide, and differs from any other business investment in capacity to generate sustainable and stable revenue for the group long term strategy, AAGH have decided to transform the real estate unit in the group to a fully independent company in 2013, to become one of the key strengths of the group and a sole source for the revenues and financial incomes.

Investment and business development Sector The sector has historically invested in multiple opportunities such as promising private and listed companies, investment funds and real estate. And in order to manage these investments professionally, the group have established the investment and business development led by a professional experienced team with over 10 years of experience in the investment market, which aim to strengthen the strategic and financial value on the long term for AAGH. And most importantly to reduce risks through diversifying the type of investments in multiple industries, and achieve outstanding revenue. Currently the investment and business development sector focuses in developing the existing and new businesses, and investing in the private equity and financial investments.

What we look for: Ŕ Sustainable Competitive Advantage: The investee company must possess a sustainable competitive advantage such as talent, processes, credible brand, unique business model, scale that will drive in more than linear-scaling profits and margins. Ŕ Intellectual Property: Spanning know-how, expertise, proprietary process, patents, hard to replicate intellectual property.

Ŕ Proactive Role: We prefer to be active investors, who are closely involved, and mentor, support and add value on a strategic level, and not just serve as a credit line. Ŕ Synergy: The investment leverages and complements our Group’s activities if possible, giving it an edge towards strategic diversification. Ŕ Long term perspective: The activity of the new investment should have potentials for long term sustainment, development and growth. Ŕ Majority Stake: AAGH must have a controlling stake in new investments and preferably not less than 51%. Stakes below 51% could be considered in some cases. Ŕ Predictability: The investee must demonstrate a strong potential to generate predictable profits and cash flows, with industry standard margins. Ŕ Geographic Focus: Considering our regional strengths and presence, we prefer companies headquartered in high growth sectors, within the GCC region. Ŕ Sector Focus: The investee’s core competency and focus area of business must preferably fall within these sectors: Automotive, Industrial, Financial Services, Logistics, Building Materials & Fixtures, Real Estate Development, Retail, Information Technology, Environmental projects and recycling. We remain open minded to opportunities from other sectors given that other conditions are met. Ŕ IRR: We anticipate an internal rate of return for investments (IRR) to be in the range of 15% with a medium level risk factor.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

Corporate Governance AAGH has an internal well adapted Corporate Governance framework that strategically reflects to the management, departments and staff interactions and has a vital effect on the long term development and sustainability. This aspect is particularly pertinent to family owned, private companies such as AAGH, which is an embodiment of the success of different generations and a multitude of family members. To ensure the next wave of sustainable growth, AAGH laid a strong foundation of an institutionalized corporation. With the engagement of leading specialists, and successfully adapted and adopted a governance framework that is at par with international best practices. The model draws the line between ownership and management and separates policy direction from the dayto-day running of the Group. On the subsidiaries level, a special boards have instituted for all major subsidiaries, and introduced independent external members for better governance. On the holding-level, the group board also includes independent directors. This additional yet important layer, works as a safe guard and ensures compliance across strategy, operations and finance. Each of the boards has created special committees to whom they delegate implementation initiatives, ensure a sound level of risk management and consistently strive for best practices. All these proactive efforts and foresight has created a solid organizational structure that embeds accountability, promotes transparency, and ensures that all the people work in a cohesive and efficient manner towards a shared goal.

Corporate Social Responsibility AAGH implements initiatives that build the social fabric of society into one which is strong, unified and compliant with teachings of Islam; and the late Sheikh Abdullatif Alissa also

ACQ 151 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

set up the Abdullatif Alissa Charity Foundation which is engaged in charitable and philanthropic activities. A dedicated CSR unit with a detailed five year plan and well-planned programs, which also collaborates with all operating subsidiaries in delivering innovative and beneficial initiatives targeted at raising social standards. Initiatives at AAGH CSR, work closely with the Human Resources Development Fund and do the group part in the Saudization of the staff. The Alissa Center for Training and Development in collaboration with Saudi Vocational Training Organization, trains people with special needs and helps rehabilitation of Saudi youngsters. All group subsidiaries work closely with charity establishments across the Kingdom to provide them with discounted prices and bonus services.

Evolving Human Capital One of the strategic assets that truly define AAGH is its Human Capital. AAGH success lies in its proactive senior management and visionary leadership who truly understand the potential of this asset and have created a platform driven by merit and passion. It is a belief in the group that with more than 3,000 people is what has set up apart for the six decades. The diversity of cultures and nationalities with the mix of highly skilled and specialized people makes a unique difference in the final deliverables to customers from one side and the financial results at multiple business sectors. Saudization is a primary strategic initiative for the group and its subsidiaries. Work force diversity and embracing best practices to empowering professionals will help evolving AAGH operations and drive results, and sharing in the same time the national company to maintain stability. This is a philosophy that the group is keen to maintain and keep in building it.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

TURKEY - IP ADVISORY OF THE YEAR - DESTEK PATENT DESTEK PATENT has been a major force in intellectual property management and protection in Turkey and providing a full range of IP services including patents, trademarks, well-known marks, domain names, industrial designs and licensing for both Turkish and overseas clients since 1983. DESTEK PATENT has been Turkey’s leader in intellectual property management & protection since 1995, namely: Ŕ Turkey’s 1st rank IP firm for more than 15 consecutive years according to official patent and trademark filing and registration statistics by the Turkish Patent Institute Ŕ Among the World’s TOP10 IP firms of the last 5 years according to the International Trademark Filing Statistics issued by WTR 1000 and Markenfacts Ŕ Largest IP team throughout Turkey with four partners, five associates, 50 patent and trademark attorneys and a total of nearly 200 professionals Ŕ Largest office network throughout Turkey with seven offices in Istanbul, Ankara, Bursa, Izmir, Konya,Gaziantep and Adana Ŕ Experience & expertise with thousands of IP files with over 100K trademarks, 10K patents and 70K designs since 1995 Ŕ Memberships to international associations LES, AIPPI, INTA, MARQUES, PTMG, GRUR, EPI, VPP and TOBB.

ACQ 153 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

Ŕ First to implement total quality management Ŕ ISO 9001: 2008 Certificate in the Turkey’s IP Business since 2001 Destek Patent also provides exclusive IP services under the registered trademarks DESTEK PATENT TV (the first and only online Turkish IP television channel), INOVERSITE (university-industry collaboration projects), DESTEK AKADEMI (continuous training of clients and in-house personnel), TEKNOPROFİL (clearance searches, freedom-to-operate opinions and technology watch-up/analysis), MARKALARM (trademark watch services), PATSIS (setting up in-company research and development and patent management systems) and ALFASOFT (in-house IP software). Destek Patent offers enhanced collaboration in IP protection. Our members contribute to Turkish IP associations as founding members, board members and presidents of organisations such as the Licensing Executives Society (LES) Turkey, the International Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property (AIPPI) Turkey, Uluslararasi Patent Birliği and the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges Turkey Attorneys’ Assembly (TOBB). We understand clients’ needs and expectations regarding expert counselling, fast response, clear communication and cost-effective quality IP services, an independent indicator of which is our high clients’ satisfaction rate.

Ersin Dereligil Managing Partner, Patent Attorney E ersin@destekpatent.com DESTEK PATENT INC. Polaris Plaza Ahi Evran Cad. No:1 Kat:17 Maslak - Istanbul 34398 - Turkey T +90 212 329 0000 F +90 212 346 0264 E destek@destekpatent.com www.destekpatent.com

SOUTH AFRICA ENS ACQ FlagsMay2013 31/05/2013 AM page 1

WINNER

- OVERALL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR – EDWARD NATHAN SONNENBERGS

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

MAURITIUS - CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - ERRIAH CHAMBERS ERRIAH CHAMBERS was set up in response to the demand for Mauritiusbased lawyers with international exposure and specialized expertise in the fields of International tax law, International trusts law, International Business laws, and all aspect of offshore business activities. The Chambers specialises in International Trust, International Finance, Banking Law, Shipping Law, Aircraft Finance and Leasing, Project Finance, Corporate & Commercial Law, Litigation and cross border insolvency, tracing and debts recovery, enforcement of foreign judgments and arbitral awards, arrest of foreign vessels, drafting of transactional documents. ERRIAH CHAMBERS acts as legal adviser and legal consultant to various banks, corporate clients and High Net Wealth Individuals in Mauritius and internationally. More than 80% of the Chamber’s practice involves advising international clients, multinational enterprises, international law firms, the top ten international accountant firms, management companies, domestic and international banks. The Chambers is also involved in setting up of various investment funds with very complexed structures in India, various jurisdictions in Africa, and China etc. The Chambers provides litigation services, advice and legal opinions on any aspect of the laws of Mauritius, international tax planning, domestic taxation, import and export services, all cross-border transaction, hotel industry and construction law, international investments, international trusts law. Erriah Chambers is headed by Dev Erriah and consists of a team of nine barristers and has associateship with many foreign law firms. The firm has until now won 7 Awards: 1. Acquisition Legal Awards 2011- Erriah Chambers- Mauritian Corporate Law Firm of the Year; 2. World Finance Legal Awards 2012- Erriah Chambers- Best Tax Firm, Mauritius; 3. World Finance Awards 2012- Dev Erriah, Erriah- Chambers, Best Tax Consultant, Mauritius; and 4. Finance Monthly Global Awards 2012- Erriah Chambers- International Tax Law Firm of the Year, Mauritius. 5. Capital Finance International – Best Law Firm Africa 2012 – Erriah Chambers 6. ACQ Global Awards 2012 – Mauritius – Corporate Law Firm of the Year – Erriah Chambers 7. ACQ Global Awards 2013 – Mauritius – Corporate Law Firm of the Year – Erriah Chambers Individual Profile Dev Erriah graduated in the UK and holds LLM in international tax law, Company law, law of International Finance and International Trusts from the University of London. Dev Erriah worked for a number of years in England and did his pupilage with Philip Baker QC at Gray’s Inn Tax Chambers. Dev Erriah was the first Chairman of STEP Mauritius (Society

ACQ 155 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

of Trust and Estate Practitioners) respectively. He is also a member of the International Bar Association and forms part of Committees N (TAX) and E (Banking). Areas of practice: · Corporate & Commercial: Mergers & Acquisition, International Business Law, capital markets practices, regulatory compliance, and competition, setting up of offshore companies, offshore fund and Collective Investment Scheme, advising on international banking and privatization, shipping law, hotel industry, international trust and trust structuring, implementation of international transactions, negotiation, drafting of transactional documents and review of all legal documentation inclusive of trusts deeds, corporate constitutive documents, legal opinions and advice, credit facility documents etc. · Finance:, International Finance and Banking, International Tax Planning, international and domestic taxation, international investments, Investment Fund including Private Equity and Venture Capital, Structured Finance, securities, Project Finance, Aircraft finance and leasing. · Litigation: International Arbitration & Cross-Border litigation, International litigation such as international bankruptcy, enforcement of international creditor’s claim, enforcement of foreign judgments and arbitral awards, arrest of foreign vessels, money laundering and due diligence in Mauritius and at international level. Key clients: The list of key clients hereunder is not exhaustive, but only recent ones are included: State Bank of India (Mauritius)Ltd & SBI India; Meghraj Group; Deutsche Bank; Alchemy Capital Management Pvt. Ltd.; Capvent Management Ltd; State Bank of Mauritius; Clifford Chance and Allen & Overy; KPMG Corporate Finance; HSBC private Bank ( Suisse, Singapore and International); Standard Chartered Bank, Norton Rose International; Norddeutsche Landesbank Girozentrale; AirAsia Ltd; Calyon; BNP Paribas; Freshfields; DVB Bank; Kingdom Hotel Investment (KHI including Four Season Hotel & Resorts, Movenpick); Vacances Plus Limited; European Investment Bank; Investec Bank Limited (Mauritius, UK & South Africa),; Barclays Bank Plc; Standard Bank Mauritius and South Africa, Société Générale, Prudential Fund Management; Compagnie Française d’Assurance pour la Commerce Exterieur (“COFACE”); Expert Credit Agency (“ECA”); Nedbank (South Africa); Avolon Aerospace AOE 29 Limited; Citibank; Eulher; Global Board of Trade (GBOT); White & Case LLP; SJ Berwin; Clyde & Co; Eversheds; Allen & Arthur Robinson; Hogan & Lovells; The Saggar Group which owns Le Meridien, Grand Mauritian and St Regis managed by Starwood; Yes Bank (India); Simmonds & Simmonds; Nordic Aviation Capital with Deutsche Bank and KfW Bankengruppe.

Dev Erriah Erriah Chambers 2nd Floor, Les Jamalacs Building, Vieux Conseil Street, Port Louis, Mauritius T (230) 208 2220 / (230) 208 3220 / (230) 212 6967 E deverriah@intnet.mu / eclaw@orange.mu

WINNER

SOUTH AFRICA

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- COMPANY OF THE YEAR â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Exxaro

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WINNER

NIGERIA - CORPORATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, G.O.SODIPO & CO.

G.O. Sodipo & Co provides pragmatic, cost effective and innovation solutions especially to the most intricate and near impossible situations. We put the commercial interests of our clients first.

Piracy

Services provided include:

Enforcement

Registration

E-Commerce

Prosecution

Legislative Advocacy

Counselling

Media

Litigation

Entertainment

Anti-Counterfeiting

Sports

Franchising Licensing Regulatory

Prof. Bankole Sodipo Ph.D (London) b.sodipo@gosodipo.com +2348023198641 Mr. Femi Fajolu, f.fajolu@gosodipo. com +2348023410304 27/29 King George V Road, Onikan, Lagos (7th Floor) www.gosodipo.com

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

TURKEY - M&A LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - GEN & TEMIZER | ÖZER Overview: We are an Istanbul based law firm providing legal services relevant to all aspects of business in a wide variety of sectors. The firm’s founding partners have over 30 years of combined experience in top tier global law firms, more than any other independent Turkish law firm. The firm is listed in IFLR1000 and Chambers and Partners as a leading business law firm. Main Practice Areas: Mergers & Acquisitions: The firm covers M&A transactions of all sizes encompassing public and private corporate/ M&A transactions, joint ventures, spin offs, privatisations and corporate restructurings. We have acted on a wide range of strategic and private equity transactions in the Turkish market, acting for international and local clients in various sectors including retail, health, media, technology, oil and gas, banking and real estate. The firm has acted on transactions from the largest and most complex in the market to small and mid-cap deals. The firm has also acted in relation to privatisation tender processes.

Banking, Finance & Capital Markets: The firm advises clients in the raising of equity and debt finance whether through bank or project financing, capital markets or private placements. This is a dynamic and fast moving area in terms of market and regulatory developments requiring deep regulatory and sectorial knowledge. Energy Projects: The firm has advised various energy businesses in relation to their investments, project financing and construction projects in Turkey, both in conventional and renewable energy projects. Dispute Resolution: The firm has extensive experience in handling litigation and arbitration matters in relation to various commercial contract disputes as well as the enforcement of foreign awards before Turkish courts. The firm has also acted in very high profile administrative law cases. General Corporate and Regulatory Advice: The firm provides regular corporate and regulatory advice to clients establishing and operating businesses in Turkey, including on intellectual property, competition and employment law matters. Real Estate: The firm acts on the development, ownership, operation, leasing and financing of real estate assets including commercial real estate, hotels, ports and residential projects.

SOUTH AFRICA - CORPORATE & COMMERCIAL LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, GLYN MARAIS INC

ACQ 157 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

Gen & Temizer | Ozer Beyazgül Caddesi No. 32 Arnavutköy/Istanbul Turkey Tel: +90 212 260 3400 Fax: +90 212 260 3404 Email: Emre Ozer (eozer@gentemizerozer.com

WINNER

TURKEY - BANKING & FINANCE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, HERDEM & CO.

WINNER

SOUTH AFRICA - DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, KNOWLES HUSAIN LINDSAY INC, Knowles Husain Lindsay Inc is acknowledged as one of South Africa’s leading law firms within the dispute resolution arena. Its three founding partners and directors, Errol Knowles, Mohamed Husain and Ian Lindsay, are also especially well regarded and recognized by their peers and clients and have extensive skills and expertise in this practice area. Although only established in 2000, Knowles Husain Lindsay Inc was the successor in title of one of South Africa’s oldest and largest law firms and has quickly gone on, rightly, under the leadership of its founding partners to cement its place amongst South Africa’s leading law firms.

The rise of Knowles Husain Lindsay and its success is a testament to its tried and tested legal expertise as well its strategic way of thinking. Knowles Husain Lindsay Inc has experienced teams representing its clients, many of which are blue chip local and multinational organizations. Knowles Husain Lindsay Inc also specializes in corporate and commercial litigation, insolvency, insurance law, engineering and construction litigation, corporate and commercial law and property.

Knowles Husain Lindsay Inc 4th Floor The Forum 2 Maude Street Sandton, 2196 P.O. Box 78268 Sandton, 2146 Docex 42 Sandton Square T +27 11 669 6000 F +27 11 669 6299

WINNER

MAURITIUS - COMPANY & TRUST FORMATION ADVISORY FIRM OF THE YEAR - PREMIER FINANCIAL SERVICES LIMITED “At Premier, we constantly strive for success through our excellent client service. Thanks to this we are frequently short-listed or nominated for numerous awards in the industry. Winning this award testifies our hard work and high quality and personalised services to our clients” noted managing director Mr Vimal D Damry.

Mr Damry said: “In addition to Mauritius companies, trusts and foundations, we also offer companies in popular jurisdictions such as Seychelles, the British Virgin Islands, Singapore and Hong Kong, among others. Moreover, Premier assists in the successful application of financial licence in Mauritius for financial licences.”

Premier Financial Services Limited is a licensed trust company providing company formation, trust, accounting, international taxation planning and fiduciary services to high net worth individuals and corporates, including listed entities and investment funds.

Today, Premier provides its client base with various fiduciary and corporate services. The firm’s capacity to provide bespoke solutions means that it is distinguished from its competitors. The firm is a one-stop-shop for all clients, and is able to assist them extremely well.”

Premier is also a member of the INAA Group (www.inaa.org), a worldwide association of independent accounting firms consisting mainly of audit, tax and accounting firms. INAA’s influence is worldwide; in fact, the organisation is represented by more than 65 firms in more than 50 countries and the number is constantly increasing.

Recently, Premier has also participated in various international conferences as exhibitor participants, hence reaching new clients and intermediaries. 2013 looks bright for the group. In brief, we have all the ingredients to move forward and face new challenges with confidence. We will be looking for opportunities to sensibly expand our services and footprint to other jurisdictions”

Mr Vimal D. Damry Managing Director Premier Financial Services Limited T +230 2456703 F +230 2456704 E vimal@premier.mu www.premier.mu

PROFILE QUALMS Consult Group is a Technical Services Organisation dedicated to promoting business standards and reducing clients’ risks through the maintenance of quality, health and safety. Through our range of technical services; Project Technical Staffing, Plant Maintenance and Shutdown, Site Construction and QHSE Training and Consulting to clients in Mining, Construction, Engineering, Oil & Gas, Manufacturing, Food Service and Hospitality industries. Today, QUALMS operate from Ghana, serving it projects sites and offices across West Africa providing clients with wide-ranging expertise and access to thousands of skilled tradesmen and specialists, bringing clients integrated solutions to ensure quality, health and safety adherence within projects and operations. QUALMS remain one of the larger, Project Technical Staffing, Plant Maintenance & Shutdown, Site Construction and QHSE Training & Consulting in technical services through local content development. The company has staffed some of the most demanding projects in Construction, Mining, Engineering and QHSE in West Africa.

SERVICES PORTFOLIO QUALMS’ offers extensive capabilities through the following service lines;

PROJECT TECHNICAL STAFFING @

Contract Staffing

Assignment Support

Permanent Placement Services

Local Content Training & Development

SITE CONSTRUCTION @

Welding

Scaffolding

DELIVERING ON-‐TIME AND TO SPECIFICATION

Steel Erection & Cladding

Today’s major engineering and construction projects are increasingly more complex and demanding. QUALMS’ is committed to providing outstanding assignment support to clients through the entire lifecycle of project development and operations. QUALMS team are an experienced, knowledgeable and dedicated group of Engineering & Construction-related and QHSE professionals all sharing backgrounds in the international resources industry from HR management to mine construction, engineering and administration.

Rubber Lining

Poly & Steel Piping

Fabrication & Boiler-making

Civil (concrete, form and steel works)

PLANT MAINTENANCE & SHUTDOWN

OUR MISSION

Electrical

QUALMS take an integrated approach to project technical services, training, consultancy services, and knowledge management to meet clients’ needs and promote business excellence through international standards.

Mechanical

Structural

QHSE TRAINING & CONSULTING

OUR VISION

Quality

Become the continent (Africa) leader in projects technical services, quality and safety business solution providers, by creating and sustaining a long-term partnership with our clients and promoting compliance, reducing risk and continual improvements.

Food Safety

Environmental

Occupational Health & Safety

AUDITS AND ASSESSMENTS CONTACT

+233 (0)302 816 242 +233 (0)544 324 942

Gap Assessments for Food Manufacturing and Catering operations

2nd Party Audits

Food Ingredients Supply Assessment

Supplier Quality Assessment

info@qualmsconsult.com www.qualmsconsult.com

WINNER

AFRICA - INVESTMENT BANK OF THE YEAR, Rand Merchant Bank

Rand Merchant Bank (RMB), a division of FirstRand Bank Limited, is a leading African investment bank and part of one of the largest financial services groups in Africa. We offer our clients innovative, value-added advisory, funding, trading, corporate banking and principal investing solutions. Our vision and primary business objective is to create sustainable value and superior economic returns for our clients and shareholders in Africa and beyond. We have an extensive pool of investment banking talent and fixed income, currency and commodities experts who understand the African business landscape. We have over the past two decades concluded many highprofile deals across multiple sectors in over 30 countries in Africa. We structure the most appropriate financing solutions to meet the needs of our clients, whether for project finance, on-balance sheet lending or a combination thereof. We value mutually rewarding relationships and constantly question existing models and develop innovative and bespoke solutions to deliver on our business philosophy and brand promise: Traditional values. Innovative ideas.

As the investment banking arm of the FirstRand Group, we have representative offices and subsidiaries in the UK, India, China, and the Middle East and access to a network of retail banks in 25 African countries.

For more information please visit: www.rmb.co.za.

FirstRand Bank Limited is the second largest listed banking group (by market capitalisation) on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE). The Group is differentiated by its owner-manager culture and operates through a portfolio of four separately branded franchises: Ŕ *OWFTUNFOU #BOLJOH Ŋ 3.# Ŋ POF PG "GSJDBōT MFBEJOH investment banks by peer ranking and industry awards Ŕ 3FUBJM DPNNFSDJBM BOE XIPMFTBMF CBOLJOH Ŋ 'JSTU National Bank (FNB) – one of Africa’s largest retail, commercial and wholesale banks by assets Ŕ *OTUBMNFOU ţOBODF Ŋ 8FT#BOL Ŋ POF PG "GSJDBōT UPQ vehicle and asset finance providers by market share Ŕ *OWFTUNFOU NBOBHFNFOU Ŋ "TICVSUPO *OWFTUNFOUT Ŋ offering traditional and alternative investment products The FirstRand Group’s vision is to be the African financial services group of choice by growing its franchise in the broader African continent, targeting countries which are well positioned to benefit from the trade and investment flows between Africa, China and India.

WINNER

SENEGAL - BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR - SOCIÉTÉ CIVILE PROFESSIONNELLE D’AVOCATS MAME ADAMA GUÉYE ET ASSOCIÉS

Introduction

Reputation

SCP Mame Adama Gueye & Associates has a great reputation built on its professionalism, and its reliability.

The reputation of SCP Mame Adama Gueye & Associés is founded on its high level quality of services much appreciated worldwide. Thus, the firm enjoys the confidence of national and international companies, multinationals and world

SCP Mame Adama Gueye & Associates is the first ISO 9001-2008 certified firm in West Africa, Central Africa and North Africa, which is the recognition of its ability to deliver services of international standard. The reputed publication “Chambers Global” that has ranked the firm within the top 3 of business law firms in Senegal recognizes that SCP Mame Adama Gueye & Associates has an excellent reputation in Senegal, performs very well and is extremely reliable. SCP Mame Adama GUEYE & Associés has developed cutting-edge expertise in the fields of law related to the following sectors: commerce, contracts, competition, banking and finance, insurance, corporate, tax, IP and copyrights, new technologies and communications, labour, civil aviation, property, mining.

leading law firms. In addition, because of the quality of its services, the law firm was rated A by European Export Insurance Agencies and recommended by the Embassies of USA, France, Spain and Germany in Dakar. Network membership The Firm is member of LEXAFRICA network (www. lexafrica.com) which is a network of legal practitioners from 25 African countries. It is also member of WORLD SERVICES GROUP (www.worldservicesgroup. com) which is the 1srt multidisciplinary network in the world with members from more than 115 countries.

Mame Adama Gueye magueye@avocats-maga.sn 28, rue Amadou Assane Ndoye Telephone: + 221 33 849 28 00 Fax : + 221 33 821 48 09 Email :scp@avocats-maga.sn Web site : www.avocats-maga.sn

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

YEMEN - NICHE ADVISORY OF THE YEAR (OIL & GAS), SAHRA CONSULTING

ACQ 165 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

TURKEY ACQ GLOBAL

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10:44 AM

WINNER

- INVESTMENT BANK OF THE YEAR - Ünlü & Co.

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

TURKEY - LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR, YÜKSELKARKINKÜÇÜK ATTORNEY PARTNERSHIP YükselKarkınKüçük Attorney Partnership (YKK) is a leading full service law firm with over 90 lawyers and 9 partners, offering tailored legal assistance to domestic and multinational corporations and financial institutions. The firm’s main objective is to provide a value-added service with a result-oriented approach. One of YKK’s core values is to work in partnership with its clients, in order to develop a true business relationship and gain an in-depth understanding of their industry. As a full service law firm, YKK offers a complete range of legal services in all aspects of domestic and crossborder transactions and delivers advice on heavily regulated sectors. The lawyers work in collaborative teams of specific practice areas, while offering assistance in diverse fields of law. With deep industry-specific knowledge and an understanding of trade dynamics, we aim to provide the best possible solution for our clients to reach their goals and business objectives. We achieve this by closely monitoring legislative provisions, case law, and examine administrative practice, while carefully considering business priorities. We manage all transactions and client issues in an efficient and responsive manner, ensuring that an appropriate level of assistance is provided for each matter.

ACQ 167 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

Working in today’s global environment requires us to understand our clients thoroughly. Our dynamic and experienced lawyers, the majority of which have studied abroad and all speak professional level foreign languages; serve in accordance with international standards. Our practice combines worldwide reach with comprehensive local knowledge, which enables us to deliver successful outcomes. In addition to providing accurate and reliable advice, we take care that these are productive and presented promptly. We prioritise our Clients’ business needs and we are easily reachable at all times. Our firm’s practice areas and specialised teams suit each client’s daily needs, as the firm is renowned for its retainer services. The retainer services consist of providing legal assistance in areas including corporate and commercial, litigation, intellectual property, employment, competition, real estate, tax and securities with integrated departments providing the services. Our Employment, Competition, Intellectual Property & Technology, Tax and Criminal departments cooperate with the Corporate, Dispute Resolution, Finance & Projects and Real Estate departments every day in meeting our clients’ daily requirements.

YükselKarkınKüçük Attorney Partnership BÜYÜKDERE CAD. NO:127 ASTORIA TOWER A, FLOORS 6,24,26,27 - TOWER B, FLOOR 24 34394 ESENTEPE ISTANBUL TURKEY T +90 212 318 0505 F +90 212 318 0506 E info@yukselkarkinkucuk.av.tr www.yukselkarkinkucuk@av.tr

Languages: English, French, German, Turkish Other Offices: Ankara Number of Lawyers: 90 Number of Partners: 9 Contacts: Cüneyt Yüksel, Murat Karkın

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Globeleq is proud to be voted by its industry peers in the 2013 ACQ Global Awards as the

International - Energy Business of the Year (Emerging Markets)

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2 More London Riverside London, SE1 2JT, UK T +44 (0)20 7 234 5400 F +44 (0)20 7 234 5486 E info@globeleq.com

www.globeleq.com

WINNER

INTERNATIONAL - NICHE TECHNOLOGY PROVIDER OF THE YEAR (FINANCIAL MARKETS – COMPLIANCE) – FircoSoft FircoSoft has over 20 years’ experience in providing watch list filtering and straight-through processing (STP) solutions. FircoSoft’s watch list filtering solutions help financial institutions comply with reinforced international regulations on terrorist financing and embargoes by eliminating the risk of processing illegal transactions and detecting high-risk financial customers and counterparts. Over 630 customers in more than 75 countries use FircoSoft’s filtering solutions. Since 2012 and the Panorama Workbench acquisition, FircoSoft has extended its expertise and portfolio with Firco Due Diligence (KYC) and Firco FATCA (International Tax report & collection). Since 2000, FircoSoft has been ranked #1, best-ofbreed, and received numerous accolades and industry recognition for its watch list filtering solution by many organizations and analyst firms including AITE, Celent, Chartis and the TowerGroup. Solutions & Services FircoSoft offers the following solutions and services: Ŕ Firco Continuity provides global real time transaction filtering compliance Ŕ Firco FATCA ensures compliance with FATCA regulations Ŕ Firco Due Diligence offers cost-effective customer on boarding and ongoing KYC compliance Ŕ Firco Trust provides configurable high-performance customer and entity screening Ŕ Firco List Service outsources list management enabling staff to work smarter

Ŕ Firco BAM monitors filtering activity proactively and in real time Ŕ Firco Preferred Routing analyzes your outgoing payments and selects in milliseconds the best correspondents and intermediaries to route a cross border payment Ŕ Firco STP Factory improves STP rates by transforming and repairing payment messages requiring manual repairs Ŕ Professional Services and Training delivers advanced filtering expertise and training The FircoSoft Advantage FircoSoft works very closely as partners with its clients to screen transactions, customers and entities smarter, faster and easier than any other vendor in the market today. Only FircoSoft: Ŕ Partners as closely with its customers to deliver optimal solutions to keep ahead of changing regulatory requirements. Ŕ Offers the industry’s most experience committed to addressing regulatory change – with largest number of experts on staff focused on filtering solutions. Ŕ Provides the smartest and most powerful filtering engine (reducing false positives). Ŕ Is recognized as the market leader for watch list filtering lauded by regulators, analysts and financial institutions around the world. Download our Firco FATCA White Paper and Sign-up for our newsletter by visiting www.fircosoft.com.

INTERNATIONAL

WINNER

- NICHE STRATEGIC ADVISOR OF THE YEAR (LIFE SCIENCES) - IMS Consulting Group

IMS Consulting Group is proud to be recognized as ACQ Magazine’s Niche strategy advisor of the year for life sciences We offer our sincerest thanks to our Transactional Services teams, whose life sciences expertise and dedication to exceptional client service made this possible. IMS Consulting Group is the world’s leading, specialized advisor on critical business issues in life sciences. Our consulting teams drive insights that deliver results. Backed by the strongest evidence and analytics. IMS HEALTH 210 PENTONVILLE ROAD, LONDON N1 9JY, UK

For further information, Özgür Tuncer, Senior Principal, Strategy & Portfolio Analysis otuncer@imscg.com +44 20 3075 5407 www.imsconsultinggroup.com TM

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

WINNER

INTERNATIONAL - WEALTH MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE PROVIDER OF THE YEAR, INTERNATIONAL PRIVATE BANKING SYSTEMS International Private Banking Systems ( IPBS ) is delighted to have been judged the winner of the International Wealth Management Software Provider of the Year for 2013. IPBS is pleased to announce that London-based ACQ Magazine, the premier Mergers & Acquisitions publication, has released details of its ACQ International - Wealth Management Software Awards 2013 winners and in so doing named International Private Banking Systems “the International Wealth Management Software Provider of the Year “. The ACQ Law Awards, which recognize outstanding Software Providers, are divided into business areas. International Wealth Management is a highly specialized and complex business and getting more complex daily as regulators demand more and more from these providers. In ninety nine point nine percent of cases, regulatory responses/ compliance must come from the data that is maintained in computer systems for each

ACQ 173 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

client, as well as what each client owns and where it is located, as well as what income may have been derived from it. At IPBS we are proud of our ability to address and resolve such requirements and mandates with our software that would otherwise require teams of people to assemble. International Wealth Management has evolved, along with the information age of the Internet and instantaneous availability of knowledge, and we have responded with the tools that our clients need to satisfy and empower their clients. Access at any- time, from anywhere, to financial and historic account information as well as the ability for clients to place transaction orders from the web portal. The magazine polled its readers as to the firms and individuals that had the greatest impact on the industry in 2013 and the decision was made by ACQ’s expert panel.

Bruce G Raine INTERNATIONAL PRIVATE BANKING SYSTEMS RIPBS House, # 3 Moseley Lane, Nassau, Bahamas T ++ 1 (242) 394 6420 F ++ 1 (242) 393 7735

WINNER

INTERNATIONAL - VDR PROVIDER OF THE YEAR, STERLING X-AG

World’s most secure VDR... and no plug-ins With pressure on M&A transactions to succeed, it is vital that due diligence using virtual data rooms is free of technical delays when inviting external parties to review the materials within. The deal team should not have to play the role of “help desk support” for their bidders whilst they overcome plug-in installation issues. Refreshingly when users log into our X-AG™ platform they do not need to install any plug-ins/add-ons, Java or Flash to start accessing documents. As an official Adobe® Solution Partner, X-AG™ integrates cutting edge LiveCycle™ PDF security that protects all documents to

the highest possible level with 256 bit AES encryption. Documents can be protected transparently within the universal Adobe® Reader. Thus the traditional IT delays associated with VDR projects can be eliminated, allowing users to focus on the due diligence and work towards a successful completion for the transaction. Find out why many corporations, legal and financial advisers are migrating to X-AG™ to accelerate their due diligence. Call Paul Yung on +44(0)207 634 4988 or email paul.yung@sterlingxag.com. Website: www.sterlingxag.com

Paul Yung STERLING X-AG™ T +44(0)207 634 4988 E paul.yung@sterlingxag.com www.sterlingxag.com

ACQ GLOBAL AWARDS 2013

ACQ 175 GLOBAL AWARDS 2013