We rank the region’s best law firms for M&A work on volume, complexity and size of work, the firm’s visibility and profile in the marketplace, presence in Asia and key existing clients and new client Wins. These are the firms that made the top tiers in each of the major jurisdictions.

Vietnam is going through an oil refinery boom right now, with a number of massive projects either planned or already in construction. But how feasible are these projects, and what should foreign investors look out for? Also, the long-closed Myanmar finally takes a seat at its own oil and gas feast; China looks to emulate the U.S. and has launches its own foray into its shale gas sector; and Indonesia struggles to reverse declining oil and gas output as investors grow increasingly frustrated over regulatory and other issues.

We are now accepting submissions for the ALB 2013 Top 50 Largest Law Firms rankings.

Also, HSF grows its Greater China litigation and arbitration expertise, Simmons & Simmons hires HK funds partner, Linklaters nabs litigation partner from HSF, and more in our weekly Asia appointments spotlight.

2013年度ALB中国版“客户之选”评选活动现已对各公司法务及商务人士开放。The 2013 ALB Client Choice Top 20 is now open to in-house counsel and business professionals to nominate their favourite private practice lawyers in China.

ALB is pleased to announce that The Macallan will be the official event sponsor for the 12th annual ALB Hong Kong Law Awards 2013.

Pinsent Masons grows HK construction practice, and K&L Gates powers up in Singapore in our weekly Asia appointments roundup.

Five firms advise on Baidu’s $1 bln bond issuance, Wong & Partners, ZICOlaw and Zul Rafique star in $885 mln Malaysian bank stake purchase, and much more in this week’s Asia deals spotlight.

Bakers appoints new Singapore tax head, Sidley strengthens project finance team in Singapore, and W&C powers up in Tokyo and Singapore in our weekly Asia appointments roundup.

Allens has advised miner Rio Tinto on the $820 million sale of its 80 percent interest in Northparkes copper mine to China Molybdenum, which was advised by King & Wood Mallesons.