Introduction

In a significant move, Chinese law firm Han Kun has reinforced its capital markets practice in Hong Kong by hiring seasoned partner Alex Tao from Milbank. This strategic acquisition comes at a pivotal moment in Hong Kong's bustling legal landscape.

Expertise of Alex Tao

Tao brings with him over two decades of extensive experience in international capital markets transactions. His expertise spans a wide range of offerings, including high-yield debt, investment-grade bonds, convertible securities, and initial public offerings (IPOs) in both the U.S. and Hong Kong markets. His deep knowledge and background make him a valuable asset for Han Kun’s growing presence in the capital markets realm.

Career Background

Before joining Milbank in 2020, Tao was a partner at Allen & Overy, where he honed his skills for over three years. His impressive trajectory also includes nearly a decade with Davis Polk & Wardwell, where he practiced law in both New York and Hong Kong. This eclectic background has equipped him with a nuanced understanding of diverse market dynamics.

Milbank's Strategic Shift

Interestingly, this move coincides with Milbank's recent decision to close its Beijing office in December 2024 after 18 years of operation, raising questions about the firm's long-term strategy in Asia. Tao's transition to Han Kun not only indicates a shift for him personally but also symbolizes a larger trend of firms strengthening local teams to adapt to the evolving market conditions.

Impact on Han Kun

According to a press release from Han Kun, Tao's recruitment is expected to significantly enhance their international capital markets practice. His reputation for excellence, coupled with his substantial experience, will undoubtedly amplify the firm's capacity to deliver a comprehensive range of legal services to its clients.

Conclusion

With this addition, Han Kun's Hong Kong team now boasts a total of 32 lawyers, underscoring their commitment to expanding their footprint in this vital market. As competition intensifies among law firms in Hong Kong, all eyes will be on how Han Kun leverages this new talent to propel client services and strategic initiatives forward.