In a bid to capitalise on the economic potential of the fast-growing tech sectors, Hong Kong has rolled out new listing rules for specialist technology companies hoping to court the “firms of tomorrow” to raise capital in the recovering financial hub.  BY SARAH WONG

Emerging technologies such as blockchain and artificial intelligence have not only reshaped the interface of videogames but also given rise to novel legal issues by calling into question traditional legal concepts while raising risks of online safety and data privacy. General counsel at videogame companies discuss the opportunities and challenges these shifting consumer behaviours and regulatory hurdles pose. 

India today has the world’s third-largest and fastest-growing aviation market, one that is also a hotbed of dealmaking activity, as shown by Air India’s recent plan to purchase 470 aircraft from Airbus and Boeing for $70 billion. As a result, lawyers in the aviation space are finding themselves more in demand than ever.  

After spending 15 years or more at Singapore’s domestic legal giant Rajah & Tann, disputes specialists Danny Ong and Wern-Jhien Yam decided to break away to blaze their own trail. The duo founded Setia Law, which prides itself as innovative and solutions-driven while boasting expertise in crypto disputes and restructuring.

In a complex M&A landscape this year, Asia’s corporate lawyers had to go the extra mile for their clients as they looked to get deals through. This second annual list celebrates 15 of the best dealmakers in the region.

Thailand’s IPO market has shown robust growth in recent years. In 2022, a total of $3.6 billion was raised on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) – the highest level of funds in Southeast Asia. With an even better 2023 on the cards, lawyers share with ALB what‘s in store for capital markets work this year and what clients should look out for. 

As the Asian region reopens after three years of the COVID-19 pandemic, the role of intellectual property remains more important than ever. This is reflected in the approaches of the best law firms for IP work, which have gone above and beyond when it comes to servicing their clients in these times of transition. 

Big tech companies are famously fond of open-plan offices believed to show flattening hierarchy and workplace camaraderie. In recent years, law firms have also been increasingly embracing this trend to promote a more inclusive culture and enhance collaboration. Leaders of those firms share with ALB what inspires their decision to go open and what difference it makes for talent and clients.

South Korea has emerged as a regional pioneer in regulating corporate greenwashing as it becomes the first country in Asia to mull monetary punishment for deceptive environmental claims in advertising.

In its third annual Asia Super 50 TMT Lawyers list, Asian Legal Business showcases the leading lawyers in the region’s technology, media, and telecommunications practices who have won wide acclaim from clients. The list is in alphabetical order, and certain lawyers have been profiled.