Freshfields

The 2025 Data Law Trends report is here, and this year’s findings reveal one thing loud and clear: the pace of change in data law is accelerating and the impact on businesses is profound. The eight key trends we've identified will shape the future, and include: - AI Governance Takes Center Stage - International Data Transfers are Under the Spotlight - Expansion of US State Consumer Protection Laws - Asia's Privacy Laws are Maturing - New EU Data Access Regulations are Shaping the Future 2025 Data Trends is your guide to help you prepare your business, navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities. Dive in - the future of data law is here, and it’s moving fast ➡ https://okt.to/8s2KWq

During #ProBonoWeekUK, we thank the 1,400+ colleagues globally who have collectively undertaken over 85,000 hours of pro bono work in the 12 months to April 2024, on hundreds of impactful pro bono matters, including: Preventing gun violence in the US ➡ https://okt.to/GngO9L Modern slavery compensation case in the UK ➡ https://okt.to/taj6Ps Important win for lone child asylum seekers ➡ https://okt.to/qOMdHA This week, Law.com International has also published their ranking of the UK’s Best Law Firms for Pro Bono, placing us at the head of the list for total pro bono hours contributed. Find out more about the impact of our #ProBono work in our Responsible Business Report: https://okt.to/WRvjL4

Today, we welcome Phillip Stoup as a Silicon Valley-based capital markets partner. He advises companies, investment banks and private equity firms in capital markets transactions with a particular focus on the life sciences and technology sectors. Read more on the appointment at: https://okt.to/xGoLM9 Find out more about Phillip at: https://okt.to/M5PzOZ

We are hosting two can’t-miss panels during New York Arbitration Week—join us at our NY office as today’s top academics, damages experts, in-house counsel, international arbitration practitioners and more share insights and discuss the topics below. 🗓️ New York Is Supportive of Arbitration at Every Stage of the Proceeding 🔹 Moderator: Counsel Natalia Zibibbo 🔹 More information here: https://okt.to/OltFq3 🗓️ Disputes Arising from the Energy Transition in the U.S. & Canada 🔹 Moderator: Senior Associate Hinda Rabkin 🔹 More information here: https://okt.to/eAJnRT We are proud to support #NYAW2024, organized by the New York International Arbitration Center and the New York Branch of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArbNY). We also thank the CPR Institute and the Young Canadian Arbitration Practitioners (YCAP) for organizing the sessions.

Stricter legislation around online content and transparency is creating a new frontier of internet regulation that will impact businesses worldwide. While the full effects of these developments will unfold over the coming years, 2025 Data Law Trends looks at the impact on your business today and what to expect in the year ahead. Read now: https://okt.to/xanvO9

We've advised Synagistics Pte. Ltd on its completed de-SPAC transaction with HK Acquisition Corporation, a special purpose acquisition company listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. This was the first successful de-SPAC in Hong Kong and shares of Synagistics commenced trading on the HKSE on 30 October 2024. Our team was led by partners Grace Huang and Arun Balasubramanian. Additional support was provided by counsel Cindy Kwong, senior associate Frank Jin and associates Kristy Wong and Yitian JIN. Learn more: https://okt.to/f3RDEO

Thank you to all our clients, guest speakers, partners from around the world and Hong Kong colleagues who joined us at our recent Asia In-House Counsel Forum 2024. Together, we explored critical topics such as geopolitics, dealmaking strategies, navigating the complexities of China, managing distressed situations, exploring opportunities in Japan’s M&A market, AI, the exciting growth of Southeast Asia and understanding Asia’s risk landscape. The insights shared during our discussions truly embodied the theme of "Asia redefined," helping our valued clients navigate the dynamic shifts and opportunities within this vibrant region. We look forward to seeing you all next year as we continue to redefine Asia together. #AsiaInHouseCounselForum2024 #AsiaRedefined

Cyber threats continue to evolve, and data laws are playing a key role in shaping how businesses respond. In our new 2025 Data Law Trends report we analyze the trends to watch out for in the coming year, including: - The rising frequency and scale of ransomware attacks - New incident response obligations - GDPR damage claims - The role of AI in enhancing and undermining cybersecurity Get the full insight now ➡️ https://okt.to/dgOlXk

With an extensive array of tax reforms announced in this week’s UK #AutumnBudget, our London tax team discuss the impact for your business in our latest podcast, including: - The headline tax increases to the main rates of CGT and accompanying anti-forestalling measures - The (largely business-friendly) announcements in the Corporate Tax Roadmap - An increase in the tax rate for carried interest capital gains from April 2025, with more significant reforms to follow - Measures designed to “close the tax gap”, including an increase in the interest rate for unpaid tax Listen now: Apple Podcasts > https://okt.to/zeXNsL Spotify > https://okt.to/VNO6LZ Web > https://okt.to/PywxJ3 🎙 Peter Clements | Sarah Bond | Rose Swaffield | Josh Critchlow | Chris Gotch

Happy Diwali! ✨ Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is observed for five days each year by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists worldwide. Originating in India more than 2,500 years ago, the celebration symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness. In recognition of this festive time, our Asian Affinity Network recently hosted a Rangoli evening—an Indian art form where bright patterns are created using colored rice, powder or other materials to represent the happiness, positivity and liveliness of a household, traditionally welcoming Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and good luck. We wish you and your families lots of light, joy and prosperity! #Diwali #Diwali2024