DAC Beachcroft Expands Horizons: New Hong Kong Office Opens Its Doors!

In an exciting development, the London-based law firm DAC Beachcroft (DACB) has officially launched its new office in Hong Kong, solidifying its commitment to growth in Asia. This strategic move marks the firm's second foray into the region, building on its successful Singapore operation established in 2011.

The newly inaugurated Hong Kong office, spearheaded by partners Ross Risby and Wai Yue Loh, aims to concentrate on areas such as insurance, shipping, trading, and commodities. This initiative is particularly timely as global trade dynamics shift, with significant international players like Zurich Insurance Group and Allianz already on the firm’s client roster. Risby, who has recently relocated from London, expressed the firm’s aspiration to expand its portfolio of local insurer clients—a clear indication of their ambition to deepen their roots in the region's legal landscape.

With decades of experience, Risby specializes in financial institutions, professional liability, and directors and officers insurance disputes. He will be collaborating closely with Loh, who brings a wealth of knowledge in shipping, trade, commodities, and insurance law. Loh, currently a joint managing director of DACB's affiliated firm Incisive Law in Singapore, has extensive experience advising Chinese clients both domestically and internationally.

Prior to the establishment of its Hong Kong office, DACB had already engaged in collaborations with local legal practitioners to better serve its multinational clientele across Asia. A notable partnership formed in 2018 with Hong Kong-based Oldham, Li & Nie (OLN) allowed DACB to leverage its global insurance expertise in conjunction with OLN’s local legal prowess. However, as highlighted by Risby, the firm recognized a growing demand for Hong Kong-based legal advice from its clients, prompting this pivotal expansion.

On September 24, Loh underscored the significance of Hong Kong as a vital hub for trade, noting the increasing interactions between China and Latin America. The burgeoning shipping and trading activities in Hong Kong are likely to position DACB favorably among businesses involved in international commerce.

As part of its strategy to provide comprehensive services, DACB has formed an association with the newly established HK solicitors' firm CK Lee & Co. This collaboration aims to ensure that clients receive well-rounded legal advice, encompassing both international and Hong Kong laws. CK Lee & Co will be under the leadership of Kelvin Lee, a former partner at Ince & Co Hong Kong, who specializes in coverage disputes and product liability insurance, alongside senior associate Will Chan.

Risby has expressed confidence and excitement regarding this new venture, stating, “We are expecting our association with CK Lee & Co to commence imminently.” This expansion represents not just a growth in offices, but a further step in DACB’s mission to provide tailored, expert legal services to meet the evolving needs of its global clients.

Stay tuned for more updates as DAC Beachcroft takes Asia by storm!