Legal #Interview

As was the case in 2018, Loyens & Loeff last year again advised in the largest number of M&A transactions. The firm overtook Allen & Overy in the second half of 2019 and after that remained in first place to top the 2019 M&A League Tables with 65 deals. In the year’s closing quarter, Loyens & Loeff advised in various acquisitions including DPG Media’s acquisition of Sanoma’s activities in the Netherlands (from Donald Duck to Nu.nl; a deal worth €460m) and in French giant Vivendi’s purchase of Hilversum- based Universal International Music, to the tune of €3bn. (Source: Advocatie.nl)

Hello Zuidas talked with Antoinette van der Hauw, partner at Loyens & Loeff and active in the Corporate/M&A practice group.

AS IN 2018, LOYENS & LOEFF LAST YEAR AGAIN ADVISED IN THE LARGEST NUMBER OF M&A TRANSACTIONS. ARE YOU PLEASED WITH THIS TOP SPOT? 

Of course we’re tremendously proud to have been involved in the largest number of mergers and acquisitions in 2019. We look forward to the challenge of holding on to our leading position in 2020.

IS THIS AN EXCITING RACE FOR THE FIRM, OR RATHER A NICE TITLE TO SHOW OFF?

Our priority isn’t to win first place, but to provide our clients with expert advice in the M&A process. But naturally it’s brilliant that our dedication ultimately put us in first place again.

WHICH DEALS MAKE YOU THE PROUDEST?

It sounds a bit lame, but there’s not any one single deal we’re most proud of. The most satisfying deals are the ones where we get to work with an interdisciplinary team from all across the firm (attorneys, civil-law notaries and tax specialists) and the other consultants involved to deliver a good result for our clients.

CAN YOU SAY SOMETHING ABOUT INTERESTING DEALS SLATED FOR 2020?

As you might expect, we’re not at liberty to say anything specific, but the year is already off to a good start and we’re working on some promising transactions.

WILL THE FIRM KEEP ITS LEAD IN 2020?

Our team has kicked off the new year with loads of energy and enthusiasm, so we won’t rule it out!