In this podcast focusing on global legal expansion, Partners Corinne Staves and Zulon Begum are joined by special guest Robert C. Bata, Founder and Principal of Warwick Place Legal, for a detailed discussion on trends from 2024, insights from the Warwick Place Global Expansion Index and predictions for the year ahead. In particular, Corinne, Zulon and Robert discuss:
- Geographical trends in international expansion:
- Increased interest in the US market, driven by recent mergers
- UK firms strengthening their positions in Europe with more office openings compared to US firms
- The focus of US firms on the Asia market, in particular Singapore
- Growth in Latin America, highlighted by the Perez Llorca merger in Mexico
- Continued interest in the Middle East, despite geopolitical challenges
- The drivers for expansion:
- Global economy and weaknesses in European economies, leading to increased M&A opportunities
- A strong interest in sectors such as leveraged finance, healthcare, life sciences and litigation
- The role of AI in shaping legal practices and their competitive advantage
- Challenges facing firms considering international expansion:
- Being clear on the reasons for expansion and the specific jurisdictions to target
- Navigating the tax implications and regulatory compliance, in particular regarding profit-sharing and liability
- Cultural alignment when merging different firm cultures and the associated impact on remuneration models and operational practices
- Predictions for 2025:
- Continued emphasis on UK firms seeking US market entry, with potential for significant mergers
- Growth in disputes-focused practices and the impact of KPMG entering the legal services market
- Potential developments in India regarding legal services liberalisation
If you have any questions arising from this recording, or would like to discuss international expansion in more detail, please contact Partners Corinne Staves and Zulon Begum of CM Murray LLP or Robert C. Bata of Warwick Place Legal.
