Overview of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) market in Singapore

Singapore was one of the first countries outside of China to encounter the virus. Whilst deal activity was down on the prior year, M&A transactions were still happening with sectors such as e-commerce and renewable energy appearing attractive. The impact on M&A activity for the second quarter of 2020 isn't clear at present but restricted mobility will certainly impact transactions, with site visits being all but impossible.

COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) Bill to offer respite for businesses and individuals struggling to fulfil contractual obligations or facing bankruptcy/insolvency as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak.

The adoption of new international guidelines on cross-border insolvency matters by the BVI courts has been welcomed by Ogier insolvency law specialist Nicholas Brookes.

The Judicial Insolvency Network guidelines – drafted in 2016 by ten insolvency judges from international jurisdictions, including a BVI Commercial Court Judge – aim to create co-operation and communication between courts on cross-jurisdiction proceedings, and to minimise the time and expense involved in litigation.