Chambers Asia Pacific (2022)
Banking & Finance - Band 2
Banking & Finance: Regulatory - Band 2
Capital Markets - Band 2
Capital Markets: Securitisation & Derivatives - Band 1
Competition/Antitrust - Band 1
Construction - Band 2
Corporate Investigations/Anti-Corruption - Band 1
Corporate/M&A - Band 2
Dispute Resolution: Arbitration: Elite - Band 2
Dispute Resolution: Litigation - Band 1
Employment - Band 1
Insurance - Band 1
Intellectual Property - Band 3
Investment Funds - Band 1
Projects & Energy - Band 2
Real Estate - Band 2
Restructuring/Insolvency - Band 1
Shipping - Band 1
Startups & Emerging Companies - Band 2
Tax - Band 3
TMT - Band 1
India - Dispute Resolution (International Firms) - Desk Abroad - Band 4
Indonesia - Corporate & Finance (International Firms) - Desk Abroad - Band 4
South-East Asia - International Trade/WTO - Band 1
Asia Pacific Region - Arbitration (International) - Band 3
Asia Pacific Region - International Trade/WTO - Band 3
Asia-Pacific Region - Shipping: Finance - Band 3
Asia-Pacific Region - Shipping: Litigation - Band 3
Ranked Lawyers:
Andre Yeap SC - Dispute Resolution: Arbitration (Band 3), Dispute Resolution: Litigation (Band 3)
Angela Lim - Banking & Finance (Band 2)
Anne Yeo - Investment Funds (Band 1)
Arnold Tan - Investment Funds (Band 1)
Brian Ng - Startups & Emerging Companies (Band 3)
Chia Kim Huat - Capital Markets (Eminent Practitioner)
Chua Choon King - Shipping: Finance (Band 2)
Danny Lim - Capital Markets (Band 4), Corporate/M&A (Band 5)
Danny Ong - Corporate Investigations/Anti-Corruption: Domestic (Band 3), Dispute Resolution: Litigation (Band 4), Restructuring/Insolvency (Band 3)
Desmond Wee - Employment (Band 2)
Elaine Tay - Insurance (Band 2)
Evelyn Wee - Capital Markets (Band 4)
Francis Xavier SC - Dispute Resolution: Arbitration (Band 5), Dispute Resolution: Litigation (Band 2)
Hamidul Haq - Corporate Investigations/Anti-Corruption (Band 1)
Jainil Bhandari - Shipping: Litigation (Band 3)
Jasmine Chew - Investment Funds (Band 4)
Jonathan Yuen - Employment (Band 2)
Kala Anandarajah - Competition/Antitrust (Band 1), Employment (Band 3), South-East Asia: International Trade/WTO (Spotlight)
Kendall Tan - Shipping: Litigation (Band 2)
Lau Kok Keng - Asia-Pacific Region: Gaming & Gambling (Band 1), Intellectual Property: Litigation (Band 2)
Lee Eng Beng SC - Dispute Resolution: Litigation (Band 1), Restructuring/Insolvency (Band 1)
Leong Kah Wah - Shipping: Litigation (Band 1)
Lionel Tan - Technology, Media, Telecoms (TMT) (Band 4)
Lionel Tay - Restructuring/Insolvency (Band 4)
Murali Pillai SC - Employment (Band 2)
Ng Kim Beng - Construction (Band 3)
Ng Sey Ming - Banking & Finance (Band 3), Banking & Finance (International Firms) - Expert Abroad (Indonesia) (Band 4)
Norman Ho - Real Estate (Band 2)
Patrick Ang - Restructuring/Insolvency (Band 1)
Philip Yeo - Investment Funds (Band 4)
Rajesh Sreenivasan - Technology, Media, Telecoms (TMT) (Band 1)
Raymond Tong - Capital Markets: Domestic (Band 1), Capital Markets: International (Band 4)
Regina Liew - Banking & Finance: Regulatory (Band 1), Capital Markets: Securitisation & Derivatives (Band 2)
Sandy Foo - Corporate/M&A (Band 3)
Shemane Chan - Construction (Band 4), Projects & Energy (Band 1)
Sim Kwan Kiat - Restructuring/Insolvency (Band 1)
Simon Goh - Insurance (Band 1)
Soh Lip San - Construction (Band 2)
Steve Tan - Technology, Media, Telecoms (TMT) (Band 2)
Tan Chuan Thye SC - Dispute Resolution: Arbitration (Band 4), Restructuring/Insolvency (Band 4)
Terence Quek - Startups & Emerging Companies (Up and Coming)
Thong Chee Kun - Corporate Investigations/Anti-Corruption (Band 3)
Toh Kian Sing SC - Shipping: Litigation (Band 1)
V Bala - Shipping: Domestic: Litigation (Band 4)
Vikna Rajah - Tax (Band 3)
Winston Kwek - Shipping: Litigation (Band 3)
Banking & Finance
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore's lawyers are sought after by major banks and corporate borrowers, with an excellent track record in both large and mid-sized work, from traditional banking and syndicated lending to project and real estate finance. Capable of handling Shari'a-compliant financings and green financing. Additionally offers notable regulatory expertise regarding fintech issues and digital licence application mandates. Well placed to handle cross-border instructions due to its network of offices across the region, including in Myanmar, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam and China. Key clients of the department include Maybank and OUE Commercial REIT Management.
Strengths
A client says that "Rajah & Tann Singapore is an established law firm, which has experienced partners who are able to provide solution-based legal advice that meets our requirements."
Another source commends their "in-depth expertise."
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann Singapore advised the senior lenders, which included HSBC, Bank of China and State Bank of India, on the restructuring of loan facilities that had been provided to Oxley Gem.
Notable practitioners
Angela Lim is a well-respected banking and finance lawyer in Singapore, offering specific infrastructure expertise. She also regularly advises on term and bridge loan facilities.
Regina Liew has a market-leading regulatory practice in Singapore. She has expertise across a wide range of issues, including digital banking and bank restructuring.
Ng Sey Ming has built a strong reputation for cross-border transactions and acts for major banks and companies. His areas of expertise include real estate finance and sustainability-linked facilities.
Capital Markets
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore offers legal expertise across both debt and equity capital markets and is recognised for being involved in many complex transactions in the market. Highly regarded for advising on IPOs and listings and rights offerings, alongside multicurrency debt issuances and convertible notes. Its client roster includes issuers as well as underwriters, with key names such as Credit Suisse and SMRT. A network of offices across ASEAN and beyond adds to the team's ability to handle cross-border work. Often assists clients with overseas listings, especially in Hong Kong.
Strengths
A client says that Rajah & Tann Singapore's team "is very responsive, reliable, commercially savvy and always working towards getting the best solution for clients."
Another source commends the team's "top-notch" legal services.
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann Singapore acted for SMRT Capital and SMRT Corporation on an update of its SGD1.3 billion multicurrency guaranteed MTN programme, which provides for issuances under the SMRT Group Sustainability Bond Framework.
Notable practitioners
Danny Lim regularly advises clients including Singaporean and foreign listed companies on rights issues and share placements. A market source reports that "he is very commercial and attuned to clients' needs."
Evelyn Wee is well placed to assist clients with IPOs, follow-on offerings and other equity issuances. She has experience of handling deals in the life sciences and agribusiness sectors.
Chia Kim Huat is deeply experienced in capital markets transactions related to domestic listings and secondary issuances. He is also well versed in assisting Chinese clients with a wide range of listings and offerings.
Raymond Tong possesses over two decades of experience in the capital markets field. He regularly advises clients on ECM deals in particular, including IPOs, secondary listings and private placements. "His knowledge of deal structuring is very useful, especially when it comes to cross-border transactions," reports a source.
Capital Markets: Securitisation & Derivatives
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore commands an excellent reputation for advising on listed and unlisted derivatives and structured products, as well as for providing a full suite of regulatory counsel. Experienced advising on margin requirements for OTC derivatives covering a full range of asset classes, often in the energy and commodities sectors. Notably offers experience in the establishment of exchanges. Clients include high-profile banks, fund managers, regulators and exchanges.
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann Singapore advised OUE Commercial REIT Management on derivatives hedging transactions linked to the grant of a SGD900 million loan with a greenshoe option.
Notable practitioners
Regina Liew possesses a strong reputation for her experience assisting financial institutions with a wide range of investment products, including securities, futures and derivatives. She often supports clients with regulatory and licensing issues as well as product structuring and documentation.
Competition/Antitrust
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore has a highly regarded team with in-depth experience advising international and local clients on merger control issues, cartel investigations and abuse of dominance matters. Often handles multi-jurisdictional merger control cases, in particular those relating to the ASEAN region. Boasts an impressive client list which includes major multinational corporates in the technology, manufacturing and food and beverage sectors.
Strengths
One source praises Rajah & Tann for its "knowledge of not only the antitrust regime in Singapore but also many other jurisdictions."
Another source remarks that the team's responses are "very prompt" and they are "generally reliable and resourceful."
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann Singapore represented Toh Thye San Farm in a successful appeal against an infringement decision handed down by the CCCS for alleged price-fixing behaviour, achieving a 70% reduction in the original financial penalty.
Notable practitioners
Kala Anandarajah is a highly regarded antitrust lawyer based in Singapore who primarily represents clients facing abuse of dominance and cartel investigations. "She thinks creatively within the law, and provides useable advice for navigating difficult situations," reports one impressed interviewee.
Construction
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore is home to a respected disputes team with considerable experience advising on construction matters for project sponsors, developers and contractors. Has deep experience in negotiating EPC contracts for energy and infrastructure construction projects. Sought out for redevelopment mandates in real estate and infrastructure. Regularly acts on construction disputes across South-East Asia, including complex multiparty disputes. Dedicated construction project risk analysis and mitigation capability, able to assist in markets such as Malaysia and Taiwan. Recently active for clients on data centre construction projects. Clients include Teesta Solar, Shanxi Electric Power Engineering and Google Asia Pacific.
Strengths
Sources describe a "well-reputed construction practice" which stands out for "ability to draft well thought-out contracts and meet agreed timelines within fee scope."
A client says of Rajah & Tann: "Their standard of service is excellent."
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann advised the master developer of the USD3.5 billion One Bangkok on the development of ICT and utilities infrastructure such as waste water treatment plant and district cooling plant.
Notable practitioners
Ng Kim Beng often handles construction and engineering disputes, including international arbitration. His experience spans power projects, data centres, public infrastructure and mixed-use buildings.
Soh Lip San is a respected lawyer in the market, acting on construction disputes involving projects in Singapore and abroad. One client says he "responds swiftly and has a deep understanding of the client's priorities while managing the legal dispute at hand."
Shemane Chan is an experienced construction lawyer in Singapore. She handles non-contentious construction matters, including in relation to hospitality, shopping centre, energy projects and data centre projects.
Corporate Investigations/Anti-Corruption
What the team is known for
Prominent team known for handling investigations in the energy and financial sectors, Rajah & Tann frequently assists with high-profile cases relating to fraud, bribery, asset recovery and market manipulation. Several members of the team offer the benefit of their former experience as government prosecutors. Involved in a wide range of cross-border investigations, drawing upon the support of the firm's network across South-East Asia.
Strengths
Market commentator observes: "They do a lot of white-collar litigation - lots of local Singapore enforcement activity."
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann assisted Wirecard with an internal investigation into fraud.
Notable practitioners
Thong Chee Kun is especially knowledgeable in money laundering, fraud and financial investigation. A market source notes he is "very knowledgeable about the process to be followed and very tactical about how to achieve the desired outcome."
Danny Ong has a successful practice spanning white-collar crime investigations, restructuring and insolvency and litigation, with a particular focus on matters involving fraud and asset tracing. A client notes: "Danny's ability to understand the need to resolve matters instead of gearing up for litigation is most beneficial to us."
Hamidul Haq is considered an authority on white-collar criminal cases and anti-corruption mandates, frequently acting for both multinationals and private clients in litigation and investigation. He is often singled out for his prior experience at the AGC and the CAD. One market source states: "Haq has a great reputation in investigations" and another describes him as "a capable Singapore criminal law-facing guy, very impressive."
Corporate/M&A
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore has a highly regarded team of lawyers, leveraging the strength of its network of Asian offices to handle complex cross-border M&A mandates. Active in a range of sectors, including property, manufacturing, education and healthcare, acting for major banks and corporate clients on public and private M&A transactions, including privatisations, as well as private equity deals. Further expertise handling REIT-related transactions. Effectively leverages the firm's wider practice areas on related issues, including capital markets, finance and real estate. Clients include Perennial Real Estate and Japfa.
Strengths
One interviewee praises Rajah & Tann Singapore for "being commercial and responsive, and anticipating client needs."
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann Singapore advised CITIC Envirotech on its SGD1.34 billion selective capital reduction of shares following its delisting from the Main Board of the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading.
Notable practitioners
Danny Lim is recognised for his capabilities in both public and private M&A transactions, with particular expertise in corporate restructuring and exit offers. He is experienced in advising multinational companies, as well as Singaporean entities.
Sandy Foo is a lawyer in Singapore who regularly advises corporate clients from a wide variety of sectors on sophisticated commercial transactions, including real estate and healthcare. She is additionally experienced in supporting private equity funds with investments, including REITs. One client praises her advice as "clear and concise."
Dispute Resolution: Arbitration: The Elite
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann boasts an impressive line-up of experienced arbitration lawyers with deep connections throughout the Singapore and Asian markets. Very good slate of work in energy and shipping disputes, and recent involvement in BIT arbitration. Involved in UNCITRAL arbitrations in Singapore, as well as matters before the ICC and the Permanent Court of Arbitration. Clients include companies, states and government-linked organisations. Firm's strong reputation for court litigation also makes the team a popular choice for arbitration-related litigation. Well placed to provide specialist advice on construction-related disputes. Vedanta and Oxley are clients.
Strengths
An industry commentator admires how Rajah & Tann "prepare thoroughly and in detail."
A client finds the advice is "very coherent," explaining: "You don't get different voices - it's one advice and one team from them."
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann represented the Republic of the Philippines before the ICC in a breach of contract dispute brought by Shell and Chevron regarding the payment of income tax. The matter is valued at approximately USD15 billion.
Notable practitioners
Andre Yeap SC is recognised as a "a very good lawyer," and as "one of the leaders at the firm" according to sources. He has defended breach of contract arbitrations for sovereign states and also sits as an arbitrator.
Tan Chuan Thye SC is "a go-to lawyer if we have any complex cases," says one client, adding that he is "very sharp, astute and a fantastic strategist with excellent judgement." He has worked on ICC and SIAC arbitrations.
Francis Xavier SC is a well-respected lawyer who acts in commercial and investor-state arbitrations. He is well-versed in shareholder and construction disputes.
Dispute Resolution: Litigation
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann's prolific litigation team offers plentiful expertise in big-ticket domestic and cross-border disputes. Represents clients at all levels of the Singapore courts. Has particular experience in financial disputes, including those relating to cryptocurrencies, while it also possesses expertise in contentious joint venture, shareholder and insolvency matters. Well placed to act on multi-jurisdictional matters due to its network of offices and alliances in the wider region. Members of the team have notable expertise handling cases connected to the Indonesia, India and China markets. OUE Lippo Healthcare, Vedanta and Prudential Assurance are notable clients.
Strengths
Clients say: "The team is very prompt, professional, detailed and in-depth in analysis and creative in finding solutions."
An interviewee appreciates that Rajah & Tann is among a handful of firms who have "very seasoned senior counsel."
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann represented White Energy in a damages action after winning a SGD1 billion dispute with PT Bayan for breaching joint venture obligations relating to a coal upgrading plant.
Notable practitioners
Andre Yeap SC has acted on cross-border issues before the High Court, including arbitral enforcement relating to investment treaties and against sovereign states. A market source says he "has a very good reputation" and also notes his activity in the construction space.
Danny Ong is someone clients turn to for advice on fraud litigation and breach of contract. He is particularly sought out by companies in the finance sector. One market source notes him as "strong and well regarded in recent years," while another commentator says he is a "very good lawyer."
Lee Eng Beng SC has long been an esteemed figure in the market. He is active on complex business law disputes before the Court of Appeal.
Francis Xavier SC has experience before the SICC and the Court of Appeal, acting on cross-border disputes concerning alleged breach of obligations. One market source attests to his well-honed skills in court: "He is an excellent litigator and brilliant cross-examiner and has good market reputation."
Employment
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore has a market-leading reputation for contentious employment law matters, with further expertise in non-contentious work. A large team able to provide a full-service offering, with notable expertise in handling company and internal investigations, trade union issues and workplace harassment cases. Well placed to assist with regional work due to the firm's network of offices throughout Asia. Acts for multinational corporations from a range of sectors, including technology, insurance, finance and manufacturing. Also advises clients on employment policies and contracts.
Strengths
"The work has been high-quality," reports one client of Rajah & Tann Singapore, who adds that "the written product has been good."
"They have lent a lot of confidence and support to us," says an interviewee.
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann Singapore was mandated by Nomura Singapore to defend against a claim by an ex-employee for wrongful dismissal, breach of an implied term of mutual trust and libel.
Notable practitioners
Desmond Wee has a well-regarded practice handling non-contentious employment work in Singapore, with experience in multi-jurisdictional retrenchment exercises as well as formulating and implementing employment policies.
Jonathan Yuen is a contentious employment law specialist who represents corporate clients. One source remarks: "I think he is very practical and is able to give confident advice in terms of what might happen and the pros and cons of different decisions."
Kala Anandarajah is well known for the breadth of her practice, including employment law as well as competition and trade. One source explains that "Kala has been our go-to person for anything related to trade and employment matters."
Murali Pillai SC possesses a wealth of experience handling employment law disputes in Singapore, representing corporate clients from various industries. A source appreciates that "he goes the extra mile and provides very timely support."
Insurance
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann is a longstanding local firm with strength in both contentious and non-contentious insurance matters. The insurance and reinsurance team regularly acts for major international general and life insurers as well as domestic companies, and is especially active assisting clients with regulatory and corporate insurance work. Local law capability and rights of audience before Singapore courts allows for a full-service offering. China Taiping Insurance, AIG and Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance are clients.
Strengths
Clients appreciate that Rajah & Tann's advice is plain and direct, with one noting: "Overall, R&T is an excellent law firm which provides practical, sensible and effective advice in a timely manner."
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann acted as Singapore deal counsel for MS Amlin in an insurance-linked securities transaction which included a pan-Asian property catastrophe bond.
Notable practitioners
Elaine Tay is able to assist global insurers with a range of contentious matters, including financial lines and professional indemnity claims, and can also offer transactional and regulatory advice.
Simon Goh is head of the insurance & reinsurance practice group at Rajah & Tann. An influential senior adviser, he sits atop the Singapore insurance market with a broad practice encompassing claims work and insurance-related corporate matters. He is lauded for his robust sector-wide contributions by clients.
Intellectual Property
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore’s established IP law department is involved with contentious and non-contentious cases concerning patents, trade marks and copyrights. Well known for advising clients on IP licensing and brand protection, and advises on transactional deals in relation to the transfer and licensing of IP rights. Active across a wide range of sectors, such as manufacturing, media, technology and insurance. Examples of clients include Tokio Marine Insurance, Sony Interactive Entertainment and the Ministry of Education.
Strengths
A client praises the team at Rajah & Tann Singapore for the "excellent, timely and thorough analysis provided."
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann Singapore advised Birkenstock on trade mark infringement and passing-off proceedings against its former distributors in Singapore and Malaysia.
Notable practitioners
Lau Kok Keng leads Rajah & Tann Singapore's IP department. His work includes trade mark infringement proceedings and enforcement.
Investment Funds
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann frequently provides advice to a variety of leading global funds groups that encompass a broad spectrum of strategies including hedge, venture capital, private equity and real estate funds. Adept in offering advice to major investment groups on corporate reorganisation and M&A. Particularly distinguished for its work on the creation and management of private funds. Particularly well placed to advise institutional investors and sovereign wealth funds. Regularly assist clients with Singapore-domiciled funds.
Strengths
A client appreciates that the team has "very close ties with the regulator and is a top name in the market."
Notable practitioners
Anne Yeo has a leading reputation in the investment funds space with a broad practice, often acting for sovereign wealth funds and institutional investors. One client highlights her "very patient, experienced, responsive" approach, while she is also praised for her strong regulatory expertise.
Arnold Tan is a pre-eminent investment funds lawyer who is particularly well placed to advise on the formation of major offshore funds as well as Singaporean-domiciled funds. As one source explains: "Arnold is a longstanding figure in the market. He is well known to all and the depth of his experience is second to none. He brings a lot to the table. His knowledge of the regulatory scene is unparalleled."
Jasmine Chew has a strong practice and regularly offers regulatory advice relating to MAS applications and listing funds under the VCC scheme. One source says: "Jasmine has significant experience and regulatory expertise. She has a commercial approach."
Philip Yeo has a broad funds practice with particular strength in venture capital mandates. He also has experience advising on private equity, real estate and private debt vehicles and is praised as being "very commercial in his dealings."
Projects & Energy
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore is well known for its comprehensive regional legal network, with an established presence in Indonesia, Myanmar and Malaysia. Highly sought after for its expertise in power and strong experience on PPP infrastructure projects. Also experienced in the oil and gas and renewable energy sectors. Noted for its focus on the construction and development aspects of projects, with additional expertise regarding project finance.
Strengths
An interviewee says that "Rajah & Tann provides excellent attention and service, with the client's best interests always in mind."
"They are timely and commercial," says another source.
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann Singapore advised Malaysia Airport Holdings on the grant of a concession to take over the operation, maintenance and upgrading of its district cooling and co-generation plant for Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
Notable practitioners
Shemane Chan specialises in energy, utilities and infrastructure project development and SPAs, including on renewable energy mandates. An interviewee notes: "She is always very attentive and responsive and has been influential in getting our deal over the line. She demonstrates attention to detail and vast knowledge."
Real Estate
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore's corporate real estate team is noted for its deft handling of legal work for major developers, financial institutions and REITs. Covering the full suite of real estate issues, the team is adept at handling acquisitions, lease agreements and conveyancing issues for both domestic and foreign clients. Rajah & Tann is active on collective real estate sales and advice relating to data centre projects, and has experience in real estate financing. Counts Boustead Industrial Fund Management and Golden Compass among its clientele.
Strengths
A client reports that the team at Rajah & Tann Singapore "is professional, knowledgeable and provides good advice."
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann acted for data centre business AirTrunk Singapore in the refinancing of existing banking facilities, linked to the acquisition of an 88% stake in AirTrunk by a consortium led by Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets.
Notable practitioners
Norman Ho is well regarded for his experience handling a range of real estate transactions. He advises property developers, investors and institutions. One market source describes him as "a problem solver."
Restructuring/Insolvency
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore is a stellar legal practice based in Singapore, noted for its deep bench of lawyers. Assists clients involved in high-value judicial management and insolvency matters, including debtors, creditors, committees of noteholders and liquidators. Also well placed to advise on the enforcement of creditors' rights. Draws on its regional network to advise on cross-border matters, and offers specialist expertise from within the firm in areas such as shipping, construction and energy. Hin Leong, Hyflux and Ezion are the among the firm's clientele.
Strengths
Rajah & Tann is "a very professional, knowledgeable and proactive team," according to an interviewee.
A source says: "They understand the requirements and concerns of their clients."
Work highlights
Rajah & Tan acted for both Hin Leong Trading and Ocean Tankers, two companies within the Hin Leong group, on a debt restructuring process worth in excess of USD4.6 billion.
Notable practitioners
Tan Chuan Thye SC has a solid practice in the restructuring and insolvency sphere in Singapore, with experience acting for debtors on restructurings and liquidations. He is known broadly for his work in contentious insolvencies.
Danny Ong is described as "a very good lawyer" by a source. He has a robust practice in Singapore, with experience advising consortiums of banks and liquidators on contentious insolvency mandates.
Lee Eng Beng SC remains a market-leading figure with notable expertise in restructuring and insolvency matters in Singapore. He has particularly notable experience on restructuring litigation and arbitration mandates. He often works on behalf of creditors, as well as judicial managers and debtors.
Sim Kwan Kiat is a highly esteemed lawyer in Singapore, who is renowned for working on high-value restructurings. He acts on behalf of lenders, noteholders, judicial managers and liquidators.
Lionel Tay is an experienced lawyer in Singapore with a well-established contentious practice. He acts for steering committees of noteholders, judicial managers and lenders on insolvency proceedings.
Patrick Ang is a pre-eminent lawyer in Singapore with extensive experience acting for major banks and judicial managers on restructuring mandates. He is a highly regarded figure in the market, with one commentator describing him as "truly exceptional."
Shipping
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore's pre-eminent shipping law practice is renowned for the size and strength of its litigation team. Covers the full range of contentious matters, including ship arrests, bunker payment claims, vessel collisions and casualty dispute cases. Offers additional strength in ship financing as well as shipping-related restructuring, with clients benefiting from its regional network of offices in South-East Asia. Frequently advises international banks and commodity houses, as well as shipowners and judicial managers. Counts Hin Leong Trading, DBS Bank and Di Matteo among its clientele.
Strengths
One source praises Rajah & Tann Singapore for "advising us with innovative strategies." This source also commends its cross-border resources, adding: "Rajah & Tann is able to quickly engage and coordinate its network of firms."
Another interviewee agrees, commenting: "Rajah & Tann has been outstanding in its advancement of complex and novel issues, and is well-versed in handling cross-border issues."
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann Singapore acted for Hin Leong Trading and Ocean Tankers on their debt restructuring process.
Notable practitioners
Chua Choon King has well-established experience in the area of shipping finance in Singapore, regularly acting for notable banks. He offers clients knowledge of ship sale and purchase agreements as well as leasing work. Market commentators note that "he has built a strong practice and formidable reputation in the Singapore market."
Jainil Bhandari is a distinguished lawyer in Singapore, and also has expertise in Malaysian shipping matters. He has substantial experience in shipping disputes, assisting clients with ship safety and cargo damage matters.
Leong Kah Wah is widely viewed as a prominent shipping litigator in Singapore. He assists clients with complex liability and salvage matters arising out of ship collisions and groundings. A source says: "He is a top-flight litigator who has shown a real zeal in understanding what drives his clients."
Kendall Tan has a wealth of experience in shipping disputes in Singapore, regularly advising clients on wet matters including shipping arrests and damages claims. He is praised by an interviewee for "going out of his way to help in every way he can."
Toh Kian Sing SC offers significant expertise in the full range of shipping disputes in Singapore, from charter party and enforcement cases to claims arising out of ship casualties and collisions. A client describes him as "a real expert in his field who cuts to the chase and grabs the key issues very quickly."
V Bala is praised by a source for having "vast experience" in shipping litigation and arbitration matters in Singapore. He is well versed in wet and dry shipping litigation, including restructuring and charter party disputes as well as ship arrests and collisions.
Winston Kwek offers clients a wealth of experience across a range of different matters in Singapore, including major restructuring-related litigation and fraud disputes. He regularly assists international banks and corporate clients in the shipping industry and also offers knowledge of tax matters. One source praises him for offering "practical and effective advice that works."
Startups & Emerging Companies
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore is a full-service law firm, well known for its activity in the startup space. Represents a range of VC funds and private equity investors in startup financing matters. Further capabilities acting for growth-stage companies on early-stage fundraising rounds, with particular expertise in technology-sector mandates, such as e-commerce. Clients also benefit from the firm's M&A, TMT and intellectual property practices as well as its extensive network of regional offices. Clients include Provident Capital Partners, Stamped.io and Synagie.
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann Singapore acted for Quona Capital on Ula's USD20 million Series A financing round with B Capital.
Notable practitioners
Brian Ng is praised by a commentator as a "deal maker" who "knows exactly what to do and how to do it properly." He is Singapore law qualified and well versed in advising investors and VC funds on startup financing. He also has further experience acting for emerging companies on financing rounds.
Terence Quek is noted by market commentators as an up-and-coming lawyer in Singapore's startup space. He has experience acting for both investors and emerging companies on investment and financing mandates.
Tax
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore has a well-established tax group, providing assistance with tax elements of cross-border transactions, inbound and outbound investments and tax disputes. Offers wide sector expertise, having experience in tax issues in the financial services, insurance and technology sectors. Also able to execute tax-efficient capital markets transactions.
Strengths
"The overall service level is excellent and technically sound," confirms one satisfied client.
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann Singapore advised the World Bank on the tax structuring aspects of the Southeast Asia Disaster Risk Insurance Facility governed by Singapore law.
Notable practitioners
Vikna Rajah is the lead partner in Rajah & Tann's tax and private client team, with a significant tax litigation practice. He earns praise from across the market, with one source describing him as "highly professional, knowledgeable and able to think outside of the box."
Technology, Media, Telecoms (TMT)
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore fields a team with seasoned lawyers who are well placed to provide expertise on telecoms and technology regulatory matters as well as licensing, data protection and data centre projects. Acts for an impressive roster of high-end domestic and multinational social media, electronics and telecoms companies. Often provides advice in relation to cybersecurity issues, including drafting of cyber-breach readiness and response plans, and in ensuring compliance with the provisions of Singapore's Personal Data Protection Act. Well placed to handle cross-border mandates and offers clients support in the wider region through the firm's extensive network of offices and associated firms.
Strengths
One satisfied client compliments the team by saying: "They really seek to add value by providing commercial, sensible advice which is practical and realistic to implement."
"Rajah & Tann provides high-quality advice," a second happy client remarks.
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann Singapore acted for Capgemini Singapore before the High Court of Singapore on a claim against it filed by Razer in relation to a data breach.
Notable practitioners
Lionel Tan is a well-regarded litigator with a solid TMT practice, often representing clients in data and IT disputes. He also advises clients on non-contentious fintech and cybersecurity issues. "He is very knowledgeable in his area," remarks one client.
Rajesh Sreenivasan is a pre-eminent TMT lawyer who is particularly adept at handling complex, multi-jurisdictional matters. He is best known for his work on cybersecurity and data protection. One client notes that "he is very knowledgeable in his area and is able to provide insights into the industry and value-added advice."
Steve Tan is a well-reputed lawyer who advises on data breaches, conducting investigations and internal audits of compliance with data protection law. One client says: "He is very responsive and a superb person."
India - Dispute Resolution (International Firms) - Desk Abroad
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann is a longstanding presence in both Singapore and regional South-East and South Asian disputes, handling both arbitration and litigation, with additional capabilities acting as arbitrator, securing interim measures and challenging or enforcing arbitral awards. Also well equipped to handle investment treaty arbitrations. Often acts for clients in the energy, tech and logistics sectors.
Strengths
A source states: "Rajah & Tann are a very well-established firm and have been operating a long time."
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann represented Vedanta in two matters relating to a Singapore-seated UNCITRAL treaty arbitration claim for over USD3 billion against the Republic of India under the United Kingdom–India Bilateral Investment Treaty arising from India’s retrospective usage of legislation to impose capital gains taxes and interest in relation to certain sale proceeds.
Notable practitioners
Singapore-based Kelvin Poon is a key contact.
Indonesia - Corporate & Finance (International Firms) - Desk Abroad
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore leverages its network of law offices across the Asia-Pacific region to advise on a significant volume of cross-border mandates. Provides Indonesia law advice through its associate firm, Assegaf Hamzah & Partners. Expertise covers banking and finance, dispute resolution, M&A and projects. Possesses notable language capabilities in the group's Singapore office, including Indonesian.
Strengths
Clients appreciate that "Rajah & Tann Singapore is an established law firm, which has experienced partners who are able to provide solution-based legal advice that meets our requirements."
Notable practitioners
Ng Sey Ming is an active banking lawyer in Singapore. He is noted by market sources for having a "good Indonesian client following."
South-East Asia – International Trade/WTO
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann offers in-depth legal expertise in trade matters concerning South-East Asian countries. Excels in a range of areas, including anti-dumping, export controls, safeguards and the structuring of trade flows, as well as handling customs regulatory compliance for international companies operating across a number of sectors, with particular expertise in the technology, consumer goods and finance spaces. Also works on matters involving free trade agreements and tariffs. Maintains a strong reputation for its handling of Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia-related matters.
Notable practitioners
Kala Anandarajah leads the competition and trade law department at Rajah & Tann Singapore. She advises extensively on customs issues and trade remedies across the region.
Melisa Uremovic demonstrates a strong South-East Asia-focused trade practice from her base in Thailand. Her recent work spans anti-dumping and customs issues as well as WTO proceedings.
Asia Pacific Region – Arbitration (International)
What the team is known for
A leading Singapore firm, Rajah & Tann is highlighted for its specialist arbitration practice and impressive regional range, extending to the Middle East, including especially notable coverage of Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam and maintaining an acknowledged profile in Philippines-related matters. Particularly noted for handling investor-state and energy cases, regularly instructed in matters involving the operations of Chinese companies in other Asian jurisdictions and highly active in disputes generated by regional construction projects. Additionally well placed to act on arbitration-related litigation in the Singapore courts, where it often provides assistance to international firms.
Strengths
An industry commentator admires how Rajah & Tann "prepare thoroughly and in detail."
A client finds the advice is "very coherent," explaining: "You don't get different voices - it's one advice and one team from them."
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann represented the Republic of the Philippines before the ICC in a breach of contract dispute brought by Shell and Chevron regarding the payment of income tax. The matter is valued at approximately USD15 billion.
Notable practitioners
Andre Yeap SC is head of the firm's international arbitration department.
Asia-Pacific Region – Shipping: Litigation
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann has a pre-eminent shipping law practice in Singapore which is renowned for the size and strength of its litigation team. Covers the full range of contentious matters, including ship arrests, bunker payment claims, vessel collisions and casualty dispute cases. Offers additional strength in ship financing as well as shipping-related restructuring, with clients benefiting from its regional network of offices in South-East Asia. Frequently advises major banks and commodity houses as well as shipowners and judicial managers.
Strengths
One source praises Rajah & Tann Singapore for "advising us with innovative strategies." This source also commends its cross-border resources, adding: "Rajah & Tann is able to quickly engage and coordinate its network of firms."
Another interviewee agrees, commenting: "Rajah & Tann has been outstanding in its advancement of complex and novel issues, and is well-versed in handling cross-border issues."
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann Singapore acted for Hin Leong Trading and Ocean Tankers on their debt restructuring process.
Notable practitioners
Leong Kah Wah and Kian Sing Toh SC are key contacts for the firm.