Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer has represented Malaysia’s Hong Leong Company on its offer to take Guoco Group, advised by Slaughter and May, private for $1.1 billion.

This deal marks the second-largest privatisation of a Hong Kong-listed company in over a decade, while highlighting the dealmaking ability of Southeast Asian companies this year.

Freshfields managing partner Robert Ashworth led on the deal, supported by the firm’s Asia finance head David Winfield, and partner Royce Miller.

Corporate partner Simon Weller also acted for Standard Chartered Bank as GuoLine Overseas Ltd’s financial adviser, while Linklaters advised the bank on the financing aspects.

Tycoons from Thailand to Indonesia have emerged as Asia's top dealmakers this year, as domestic companies eye expansion outside their home markets using cheap loans and rising stock markets, Reuters reports.

Kanishk Verghese is North Asia journalist at ALB. Follow us on Twitter: @ALB_Magazine.

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