Law firm gets closer to its clients

Elvinger, Hoss & Prussen will open its first overseas office in Hong Kong next month, adding to the number of Luxembourg-based law firms to guide the region's investment managers and bankers through the intricacies of complex transactions.

'Asian and particularly Chinese professionals will be able to receive Luxembourg-related legal advice in the firm's key areas of practice during their business hours,' says partner Katia Panichi, who has relocated from Luxembourg. 'Being closer to the firm's clients will allow the team to better understand [the clients'] needs. We will also be able to offer swift assistance with the challenges of an ever-changing legal and regulatory environment.' Panichi, who is experienced in regulated funds and unregulated investment structures, heads the team in Hong Kong, which includes a senior associate in investment funds, Emmanuel Gutton, and locally hired staff. It will be supported by a dedicated team in Luxembourg. 'We value the dynamic and pro-business attitude in Hong Kong and see the city as ideal hub for servicing our existing Asian clients and as a natural gateway to China,' Panichi says.

The firm will advise on everything from investment funds, asset management and private equity to real estate acquisition, corporate finance, taxation and capital markets.

'The team will also offer [tailor-made] training and seminars on various topics of Luxembourg law and specific transactions,' Panichi says.