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  1. O'Callaghan Matthew
Hong Kong
Matthew O'Callaghan
Partner
matthew.ocallaghan@freshfields.com
Hong Kong: +852 2913 2614
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About

Matthew is a strategic leader in regulatory matters with a primary focus on the financial services sector, empowering clients to navigate business-critical projects with strategic precision. 

As Head of our financial services practice in Asia, Matthew provides comprehensive regulatory support and practical legal advice to banks, non-bank lenders, insurers, broker-dealers, fund managers, global investors and fintech clients across the Asia-Pacific region. 

He has assembled the strongest regulatory team in Hong Kong covering the most complex issues in financial services for regulated clients. The team draw on expertise both in Hong Kong and across the region to serve global clients as they navigate the patchwork of jurisdictions and nuances when operating in Asia. 

His practice covers both advisory work for clients adapting to regulatory change and new markets, as well as the regulatory aspects of complex transactions.

With extensive in-house and private practice experience in Asia and Europe, including over a decade at Goldman Sachs, Matthew offers clients unparalleled insights into the legal and regulatory issues affecting financial institutions across multiple jurisdictions.

As managing partner of our Hong Kong office, his leadership enables him to connect clients across practices and regions to support the delivery of innovative, tailored solutions that drive client success in an ever-evolving industry.

Matthew is currently chair of the finance, legal and tax committee at AustCham in Hong Kong. 

Capabilities
Regulatory and compliance advisory
Private capital
Mergers and acquisitions
Financial services regulation
Pro bono
Financial services
Fintech
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Additional Information

  • Expert in FIG regulated deals in Hong Kong, having advised on the UBS acquisition of Credit Suisse, numerous bank restructurings, change in control approvals for banks with the HKMA, brokerages with the SFC and insurers with the Insurance Authority;
  • Advised numerous private equity houses on establishing and optimising their operations in Hong Kong, including entity set up, licensing, anti-money laundering, client documentation, compliance policies, liaison with Hong Kong regulators and supporting and integrating new acquisitions.
  • Advised numerous global banking groups on matters in relation to their equities businesses, as well as roles as prime broker or custodian.

"Matthew has the benefit of being intellectually talented, and commercially astute given the depth of his experience at a top-tier investment bank across both the UK and Asia."
— Chambers Asia Pacific |  2024
Matthew O'Callaghan
Partner
matthew.ocallaghan@freshfields.com
T +852 2913 2614
hong kong Office

55th Floor, One Island East

Taikoo Place, Quarry Bay

hong kong
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