A&O and Shearman Partners Approve Merger

A&O and Shearman partners have endorsed a merger, signaling also a strategic move to strengthen their presence in the esports and gaming sector.

On 13 October 2023, UK-based legal giant A&O and New York’s renowned law firm Shearman announced that an overwhelming “more than 99%” of the votes from both firms supported the merger. This union will lead to the formation of Allen Overy Shearman Sterling, abbreviated as A&O Shearman.

The combined entity, with over 800 partners and nearly 4,000 legal professionals, aims to leverage their collective expertise to cater to the rapidly growing esports and gaming industry. Shearman, with its vast experience in the hospitality, leisure, and gaming sectors, will benefit from a broader geographical reach. In contrast, A&O, known for its involvement with global video games practice and advising major players in the gaming sector, aims to achieve heightened recognition and broader access to the US corporate clientele in the esports domain.

Alexandre Rudoni, the head of A&O’s Global Video Games practice, has become a trusted advisor for leading businesses in the games sector. Under his leadership, A&O has made significant strides in the gaming industry. Notably, Allen & Overy advised Epic Games on the acquisition of Capturing Reality, a leading photogrammetry developer in Slovakia. Furthermore, the firm played a pivotal role in advising CVC Capital Partners on its investment in Gaming1.

Wim Dejonghe, senior partner at Allen & Overy, described the merger as a significant step forward for both firms in capturing the legal market.

Adam Hakki, senior partner at Shearman & Sterling, emphasized the potential of A&O Shearman in setting new standards in legal services.

The two firms are now gearing up for “active integration planning,” targeting the merger’s finalization by May 2024.

While specific leadership roles for the combined firm’s esports practice remain undisclosed, both companies have historically shown interest in the sector. With A&O’s proven track record in the gaming sector and Shearman & Sterling’s expertise in the hospitality, leisure, and gaming sectors, the merged entity is poised to become a powerhouse in the esports legal domain.

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