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BVI: Advancing Cross-Border Trade and Innovation

Date: Thursday, May 23, 2024
Venue: Renaissance Beijing Wangfujing Hotel

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Event Objectives

Recognised as an internationally respected financial centre, the BVI plays a pivotal role in connecting markets, facilitating inbound and outbound investment, trade, and capital flows. With a rich history of cultivating strong relationships with Asian businesses since the 1980s, the BVI stands uniquely poised to navigate through these disruptions and continue driving economic prosperity across the region.

The BVI’s financial services sector relies heavily on Asia, with 57 percent of its business coming from the region, including 44 percent from China’s Mainland, Hong Kong and Macau. The recent political tensions between China and Western countries make this mission particularly important for maintaining the BVI’s position as a trusted partner in the Asian market.

Experience firsthand the convergence of visionary leadership and industry expertise as leaders from the highest echelons of the BVI Government, BVI Finance, BVI Hong Kong Office, and esteemed practitioners and experts from Asia engage in candid, high-level conversations. Together, we will explore the critical issues and innovative strategies shaping the future of financial services both in the BVI and across the Asian market.

About Us

Major respected companies worldwide use BVI Business Companies to manage their cross-border activities. Over 140 major businesses listed on the London, New York, and Hong Kong main stock exchanges use BVI vehicles to support their international investment activities.

Companies, institutions, and private individuals use them for holding companies for various assets corporate group structuring; investment business, joint ventures, listings, real estate; family, trust, estate, and succession planning; and vessel or aircraft registration.

Agenda

Topic
Speaker
Registration
Welcome Remarks
Dr. Ricardo Wheatley, Director, BVI Hong Kong Office
Keynote Speech- BVI: Jurisdiction of Choice
Deputy Premier and Minister for Financial Services, Labour and Trade, Hon. Lorna Smith, OBE
Description: Deputy Premier Smith will explore recent advancements in the BVI, shedding light on how the jurisdiction takes a proactive stance in assisting millions of Asians in achieving their financial objectives. Moreover, the Deputy Premier will explain the pivotal role played by the BVI in facilitating foreign direct investment in China and the Asia Pacific region, and on a global scale. Additionally, Deputy Premier Smith will tackle recent international developments and elaborate on the strategies adopted by the BVI to address these developments.
Panel - Going for Global Growth Why Choose the BVI?
Moderator: Elise Donovan, CEO, BVI Finance
Panellists:
Carson Wen, Founder, Bank of Asia
David Chong, Founder and President, Portcullis Group
Description:For four decades, BVI Business Companies have proven instrumental for Chinese business leaders, state-owned enterprises, and individuals. What factors have led Chinese business leaders to consistently select the BVI as their preferred jurisdiction? What distinctive advantages does this jurisdiction provide to the Chinese market, and to what extent are these capabilities fully understood by stakeholders? A panel of experts will delve into recent BVI developments in the context of prevailing trends in Asia.
Panel- Charting a Course through the International Landscape
Moderator: Ms. Ayana Glasgow, Director of International Business (Regulations), Ministry of Financial Services, Labour and Trade
Panellists:
Shane Baptiste, Asia Representative, BVI Financial Services Commission
Tiger Zhang, Director, ICS Corporate Services
Deon Vanterpool, VP, Bank of Asia
Description:The global regulatory landscape of transparency and taxation, propelled by entities such as the OECD, the EU, FATF, NGOs, and EU parliamentarians, is dynamic and complex. In light of these diverse regimes fuelling the anti-offshore agenda, what strategies does the BVI employ to align with and meet the requirements set forth? How does the BVI navigate the delicate balance between compliance obligations and sustaining competitiveness within the market? Furthermore, will the BVI uphold the "privacy and confidentiality of its structures," a principle highly esteemed in Asian jurisdictions?
Key topics of discussion will include an overview of BVI's legal framework for international businesses and financial services, insights into the latest regulatory updates and compliance requirements, and practical advice for navigating the complexities of doing business in a jurisdiction renowned for its offshore financial services. The panel will also delve into the global impact of BVI regulations, discussing how international standards and cross-border cooperation affect local practices and vice versa.
Panel- BVI the Ideal Vehicle for Structuring on the Belt and Road
Moderator: Matthew Sumner, Managing Director, Outbound Investment Grou
Panellists:
David Chong, Founder and President, Portcullis Group
Tiger Zhang, Director, ICS Corporate Services
Deon Vanterpool, VP, Bank of Asia
Description:The BVI remains at the forefront of international corporate structuring for cross-border transactions and investing worldwide. The BVI’s attributes, such as a familiar legal system based on English common law, internationally compliant regulations and tax neutrality, make it an especially attractive jurisdiction for pooling capital globally and investing it in markets where legal Page 20 of 54 barriers or political risks would otherwise deter investment..
Coffee Break
Presentation- BVI Regulations
Speaker: David Chong, Founder and President, Portcullis Group
Description: Delve into the intricate dynamics of wealth acquisition and preservation amidst Asia's burgeoning middle class aspirations. BVI-focused practitioners offer strategic counsel and tailored solutions, including Vista Trusts, Private Trust Companies, and Family Office services, aimed at realizing goals such as real estate acquisition, securing top-tier education for children, and ensuring premium healthcare for families. In the context of contemporary Chinese and Asian family issues and financial objectives, let's explore the symbiotic relationship between these aspirations and the bespoke services provided by the BVI.
Additionally, journey into the realm of legacy, wealth, and the influential role of family offices through the unique lens of the BVI. Uncover the strategies, opportunities, and exclusive insights that define the BVI's perspective on the enduring power of family offices in perpetuating and advancing intergenerational wealth. Join us as we navigate this dynamic intersection, where tradition meets innovation, and aspirations converge with strategic deployment.
Presentation: – BVI Vehicles in Transactions, Virtual Assets Business and Other Structures Used in Asia
Speaker: Alan Wong, Counsel, Ogier
Description:Dive into the intricate world of financial transactions, virtual assets business, and diverse structures utilized in Asia, with a focus on the role of BVI vehicles. Join us as we unravel the complexities, strategies, and practical applications of these structures within the Asian landscape, offering invaluable insights into their usage and impact on regional markets.
Panel – Dispute Resolution, Arbitration, Shareholder Disputes, Litigation
Moderator: Ms. Ayana Glasgow, Director of International Business (Regulations), Ministry of Financial Services, Labour and Trade
Panellists:
Shan Greer, CEO, BVI International Arbitration Centre
Cherrin Wong, Counsel, Maples Group
Description:Join our panel as they explore dispute resolution, arbitration, shareholder disputes, and litigation within the unique legal framework of the BVI. Learn about the pivotal role of the BVI's Commercial Court and the BVI International Arbitration Centre in handling complex international disputes, enhancing the jurisdiction's profile in the financial services industry. Gain insights into the appeals process, from the High Court to the Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal and the Privy Council in London. From alternative dispute resolution methods to navigating complex shareholder disputes and litigation strategies, our panellists will provide practical Page 22 of 54 guidance and real-world examples to help you navigate these challenges with confidence. This session will equip you with the knowledge and strategies needed to mitigate risks and achieve favourable outcomes in contentious situations.
Presentation - - Navigating AML Requirements: Ensuring Compliance for BVI Managers
Speaker: Tiger Zhang, Director, ICS Corporate Services
Description: Navigate the intricate landscape of Anti-Money Laundering (AML) requirements with confidence in our comprehensive session tailored for BVI managers. Delve into the essential components of AML compliance, from regulatory frameworks to practical strategies for implementation. Gain valuable insights into best practices, risk mitigation techniques, and the latest developments in AML regulations. Mr. Zhang will provide the tools necessary to ensure compliance and safeguard your operations in today's dynamic financial environment
A Conversation on Digital Assets
Moderator: Elise Donovan, CEO, BVI Finance
Speakers: Deon Vanterpool, VP, Bank of Asia
Shane Baptiste, Asia Representative, BVI Financial Services Commission
Description:Explore the world of digital assets with an expert as we discuss the latest trends and challenges. Gain insights into the BVI’s Virtual Assets Legislation and its impact on the digital economy. Uncover valuable strategies for navigating this dynamic landscape.
Presentation – Using BVI Investment Funds in Asian Fund Finance and Other Strategies
Speakers:Lily Miao, Partner, Appleby
Eason Huang, Fund Partner, Appleby
Description:Discover the unparalleled competitive advantages offered by BVI fund structures in today's global financial landscape. Delve into the unique features, regulatory frameworks, and strategic benefits that position BVI funds as a preferred choice for investors and fund managers alike. Gain insights into how these structures drive efficiency, flexibility, and success in fund management, unlocking new opportunities for growth and innovation.
Presentation – BVI: The Future
Description: Delve into the future of the BVI business. Building upon exploration of recent advancements, the presentation will illuminate the trajectory ahead for the jurisdiction. Discover how the BVI continues to proactively support millions of Asians and Chinese individuals in realising their financial goals. Gain insights into the evolving role of the BVI as a key facilitator of foreign direct investment. Explore the possibilities and opportunities that lie ahead as the BVI charts its course towards a dynamic and prosperous
Q&A
Brief Closing Remarks:
Siobhan Flax, Deputy Director, BVI Hong Kong Office
Reception
SPONSORS
PLATINUM
GOLD
SILVER
BRONZE
ASSOCIATE SPONSOR
Speakers

Honourable Lorna Smith

OBE
Deputy Premier and Minister for Financial Services, Labour and Trade

Ayana Glasgow

Executive Director of International Business Regulations
Ministry of Financial Services, Labour and Trade

Dr. Ricardo Wheatley

Director
BVI Hong Kong Office

Siobhan Flax

Deputy Director, BVI Hong Kong Office

Shan Greer

Chief Executive Officer
BVI International Arbitration Centre

Elise Donovan

Chief Executive Officer
BVI Finance

Shane Baptiste

Asia Representative
BVI Financial Services Commission

David Chong Kok-Kong

Portcullis Group
Founder & President of Portcullis, Executive Chairman of Fusang and Director of David Chong Law Corporation

Tiger Zhang

Director
ICS Corporate Services

Cherrin Wong

Counsel, Maples Group 

Carson Wen

Founder, Bank of Asia

Deon Vanterpoo

Vice President , Bank of Asia

Alan Wong

 Counsel, Ogier 

Lily Miao

Appleby 
Partner

Eason Huang

Appleby 
Partner (Shanghai) and Registered Foreign Lawyer (Hong Kong)

BVI Finance is the voice of the British Virgin Islands financial services industry, marketing and promoting its products and services, as well as managing and maintaining its excellent reputation as a premier international financial center.

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ATU BV

Established in the British Virgin Islands since 1995, ATU offers wealth structuring and estate planning services as part of an international group, with headquarters in the Principality of Liechtenstein. Unlike the traditional model of BVI corporate service providers, ATU focuses on value added services. Dedicated services and personalized attention are the cornerstone of ATU’s culture. Our clients value us as a reliable partner, not only because we understand their expectations, but because we know how to exceed them. We achieve good staff performance by constantly investing in the growth of our multicultural and pluridisciplinary team. Staff qualifications include fiduciary, banking, law, fund administration and accounting. We speak the client language. Our BVI office has native speakers in over 10 relevant languages.

PORTCULLIS GROUP

At Portcullis, we understand the importance of continuity and legacy planning. We are a true family office, with generational involvement in the business. We fully understand the needs and difficulties that families face and it is our vision to work with other families to create enduring legacies. Portcullis is a family owned independent Trust Company. We have offices located in Singapore, Hong Kong, Labuan, Kuala Lumpur, the BVI, Samoa and the Cook Islands and maintain licences in the Cayman Islands and Seychelles. With 40 years of experience, Portcullis has honed the art of delivering turn-key solutions for

establishing family offices and has evolved into one of the largest Asian independent trust, fund and family office service providers. We have over 31 different licenses around the world and leverage on this network to provide seamless integration that ensures your family office setup aligns with your existing relationships and preferences. Portcullis manages over 18 Billion AUA, with over 19,702 clients from 59 different countries. At Portcullis, we believe in crafting solutions that fit your unique needs. Whether you choose to leverage our in-house expertise, work with our external of providers or collaborate with your trusted network, the power is in your hands. Our commitment is to work hand-in-hand with your family’s trusted advisers.

ICS CORPORATE SERVICES

ICS Group was established in 2011 and is the first independent corporate service provider in mainland China with the BVI Class III Trust License, the Cayman Corporate Service License, and the Hong Kong Trust and Corporate Service Provider (TCSP) License, etc. ICS is rooted in mainland China. With more than one hundred professionals with backgrounds in legal, financial, and management, ICS provides one-stop solutions for Fund Establishment, Overseas Investment, Circular 37 Registration, ODI Registration, and Formation of VIE Structures for the Chinese market. ICS is headquartered in Shanghai, with offices in the British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Hong Kong, Beijing, Shenzhen, and Haikou.

OGIER

Ogier is a professional services firm with the knowledge and expertise to handle the most demanding and complex transactions and provide expert, efficient and cost-effective services to all our clients. We have three divisions: Legal: Practical advice on BVI, Cayman, Guernsey, Irish, Jersey and Luxembourg law.

Corporate and Fiduciary: Corporate administration services with a strong reputation in governance and regulatory compliance. Consulting: Independent guidance on sustainable investing, regulatory compliance and tech.

Maples Group

The Maples Group, through its leading international law firm, Maples and Calder, advises global financial, institutional, business, and private clients on the laws of the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Ireland, Jersey and Luxembourg. Our global network of over 3,000 lawyers and industry professionals are strategically located in the Americas, Europe, Asia and the Middle East with specific strengths in areas of corporate commercial, finance, investment funds, litigation and trusts. With nearly 30 years on-the-ground experience in Asia, the Maples Group remains committed to providing clients with comprehensive legal, fiduciary, fund, regulatory and compliance, entity formation and management services.

Appleby

Appleby is one of the world’s leading international law firms. Our global teams of legal specialists advise public and private companies, financial institutions and private individuals. Through Appleby Global Services, we offer a range of administration, reporting and fiduciary services focused on corporate structures. We are a full service law firm providing comprehensive, expert advice and services across corporate, dispute resolution, property, regulatory and private client and trusts practice areas. We work with our clients to achieve practical solutions whether from a single location or across multiple jurisdictions. Our dedicated teams of experienced professionals work closely with our legal specialists to provide our clients with an integrated legal and corporate

administration offering. We are regularly recognised for our professionalism, integrity and excellent client service, and these are the values we pride ourselves on and are at the core of our business. Our global presence enables us to provide comprehensive, multi-jurisdictional legal advice at the times most beneficial to our clients.

WALKERS

Walkers is a leading international law firm. We provide legal, corporate, compliance and fiduciary services to global corporations, financial institutions, capital markets participants and investment fund managers. Our clients are the most innovative firms and institutions across the financial markets, and rely on us for our ability to provide solutions to their most important legal and business issues. We develop globally-minded, entrepreneurial lawyers who are experts in their field and committed to client service.

Walkers is consistently ranked in the top tier of the leading global legal directories. Recognized for being a ‘dynamic team that is very user friendly’, a regular comment by clients is that Walkers is the “go-to” firm for offshore legal advice.

TMF GROUP 

TMF Group is a single global team with over 10,000 colleagues in 125 offices across 86 jurisdictions, covering 92% of world GDP and 95% of FDI inflow. We bring common culture and ways of working, investing heavily in our people and platform to provide a high level of quality and security to our clients. We exist to give clients a global solution to what otherwise requires many local providers, each with their individual operational complexity and risk.

Our clients include the majority of the Fortune Global 500, FTSE 100 and top 300 private equity firms. We see ourselves as a partner to them, keeping them on top of complex rules and regulations in the countries where they are active.

VISTRA

Here at Vistra, our purpose is progress. As a close ally to our clients, our role is to remove the friction that comes from the complexity of global business. We partner with companies and private capital managers along the corporate and private capital lifecycle. From HR to tax and from legal entity management to regulatory compliance, we quietly fix the operational and administrative frustrations that hamper business growth.

With over 9,000 experts in more than 50 markets, we can accelerate progress, improve processes, and reduce risk, wherever your ambition takes you.

BANK OF ASIA

Bank of Asia is licensed and regulated by the authorities of the British Virgin Islands
(BVI). It uses advanced digital channels to provide a wide range of cross-border financial
services to its global clients, especially companies and individuals associated with
offshore jurisdictions, addressing the growing financial needs of international
companies, their owners, and multinational conglomerates. Despite the severe impact of the pandemic in the past three years, Bank of Asia has by now onboarded customers from 90 jurisdictions and with fintech is servicing their transactional banking, asset, and funds management needs in a cost-effective and user-friendlymanner.

Headquartered in the British Virgin Islands, Bank of Asia was awarded the first banking license in more than two decades by the BVI Financial Services Commission (FSC) in March 2017.

Honourable Lorna Smith
OBE
Deputy Premier and Minister for Financial Services, Labour and Trade

Lorna Smith, OBE, a prominent figure in the British Virgin Islands, is elected as a Member of the House of Assembly of the Virgin Islands as a Territorial At-Large Representative and appointed the Deputy Premier. She serves as the Minister of Financial Services, Labour and Trade. With over 30 years of experience at the highest levels of public service, she has been instrumental in the BVI’s rise from relative obscurity to its present position as a top-flight tourist destination and premier centre for global finance. In addition to her public service roles, Lorna is the Founder and President of LGS & Associates, which provides strategic advice to governments and global organizations on business and

financial services initiatives. As a thought leader with a deep network in the public, private, and non-profit worlds, Lorna offers her clients critical insight into the challenges and opportunities facing organisations that seek to operate in the BVI and across the Caribbean. Lorna previously served on several financial institution boards and is a regular speaker and writer on digital offshore banking, trust and estate practices, best business practices, and global financial services. Lorna was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by Her Majesty the Queen for her contribution to Public Service in the British Virgin Islands. She is a four-time Paul Harris Fellow with Rotary International, most recently serving as Assistant Governor for all Rotary Clubs in the BVI. In 2019, she received the Lifetime Defender Award from BVI Finance.

Ayana Glasgow
Executive Director of International Business Regulations
Ministry of Financial Services, Labour and Trade

Ayana Glasgow is a BVI regulated trust and corporate services provider. Ayana has accumulated over twenty-five years’ experience in the BVI financial services industry, with an emphasis on regulatory matters and expertise in the administration of trust and corporate vehicles. Ayana began her career as a regulator with the BVI Financial Services Commission, having served as its Deputy Director – Banking & Fiduciary Services at the time of her departure. Prior to joining Aleman, Ayana held compliance and private wealth roles with a Jersey based legal and fiduciary services group. Ayana holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Acadia University and a Master of Business Administration Global Management from the University of Phoenix. She is a Fellow of the International Compliance Association, a member of the Association for Certified Anti Money Laundering Specialists and a full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners. Ayana has served as a member of several government statutory boards and other regulatory committees and is currently a member of the Company Law Review Advisory Committee.

Dr. Ricardo Wheatley
Director
BVI Hong Kong Office

Dr. Ricardo Wheatley presently serves as the Government of the Virgin Islands’ (BVI) Asia-Pacific Representative and Director of the BVI’s Representative Office in Hong Kong (2019 – present). Prior to his diplomatic posting Dr. Wheatley served as a University Lecturer in the area of International Politics and Development Studies in South Korea (Ajou University), the United States, (Clark Atlanta University), Bangladesh (North South University), and the United Kingdom. He holds a PhD in International Politics (Clark Atlanta University), MA in Political Science (Clark Atlanta University), MSC in Public Administration & Economy (Leiden University), and is a member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP).

Siobhan Flax
Deputy Director
BVI Hong Kong Office

Siobhan Flax is the Deputy Director/Asia-Pacific Affairs Officer at the British Virgin Islands Hong Kong Office, Government of the Virgin Islands (2023). Prior to her posting in the Asia-Pacific, Siobhan served as Deputy Director in the British Virgin Islands Gov. Rep. Office – London (2011 – 2023). Across a decade of diplomatic service her responsibilities have included representing the interests of the Virgin Islands in the United Kingdom & European Union and the Asia-Pacific region. Siobhan holds a master’s degree in “Diplomacy, Statecraft and Foreign Policy” (Loughborough University – UK), and a bachelor’s degree in “Business Administration” (Georgia State University – USA). Prior to her career in diplomatic service, Siobhan worked in the Virgin Island’s Public Sector in HumanResource Management, as well as the private sector in the Hospitality & Tourism industry.

Shan Greer
Chief Executive Officer
BVI International Arbitration Centre

Shan Greer is an international arbitrator and mediator associated with Arbitra International in London. Taking the helm as Chief Executive Officer at the BVI International Arbitration Centre in January 2023, she brings over two decades of unparalleled expertise to the forefront of the industry. With a specialized focus on construction law, Shan Greer is celebrated for her pragmatic and commercially astute approach, consistently guiding clients through a myriad of transactions and disputes. Her extensive track record spans diverse jurisdictions in the Caribbean, Europe, and North America, showcasing her versatility and proficiency in handling intricate legal matters. Educated at Kings College London with a Master’s degree in Construction Law and Dispute Resolution, Shan Greer holds dual qualifications as a barrister and solicitor in England, alongside admissions to practice in Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent, and Belize. Regularly sought after as an arbitrator, adjudicator, and mediator, Shan Greer’s expertise extends to ad hoc, institutional, international, and domestic arbitrations, bridging civil and common law jurisdictions with her insightful perspective and unwavering commitment to equitable resolution.

Elise Donovan
Chief Executive Officer
BVI Finance

Elise Donovan is the chief executive officer of BVI Finance and brings to the role wide-ranging work experience in Asia, North America, the Caribbean and Africa. Elise has played a major role in expanding and deepening the BVI’s financial services footprint in cities around the world, specifically in the Asia Pacific region, through strategic relationship building, conducting forums and seminars on the BVI’s financial services business, including at major financial institutions. She previously served as Director and Asia Pacific Representative at BVI House Asia, EU/UK Representative and Director of the BVI London Office, and at BVI International Affairs Secretariat, the BVI Financial Services Commission and the BVI International Finance Centre (now BVI Finance), and a member in the BVI’s Tax Information Exchange Agreement Negotiating Team with countries such as China, the United Kingdom, France, Australia and New Zealand, Canada, and the Nordic countries. She has authored numerous articles on the role of the BVI as a leading international finance centre. Elise also holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Carleton University in Ottawa and Columbia University in New York.

Shane Baptiste
Asia Representative
BVI Financial Services Commission

Mr. Baptiste manages the delivery of services offered from the Commission’s office as the Asia Pacific liaison for the jurisdiction’s regulatory and registry sectors. He champions the Commission’s undertaking to bolster and strengthen deeper relations in the Asia market. Mr. Shane Baptiste offers more than 14 years of Financial Services experience and has previously held various positions within the Commission as a Senior Enforcement officer.

David Chong Kok-Kong
Founder & President of Portcullis, Executive Chairman of Fusang and Director of David Chong Law Corporation
Portcullis Group

David is the Founder and President of the Portcullis Group. He has been described by the Singapore Academy of Law as “the Guru of Asian Family Offices”. David is the former President of the Singapore Trustees Association (STA). He served as the Founding President of Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners (STEP) Singapore Branch and was the Founding President of the Singapore Fund Administrators Association (SFAA). He leads the Family Office Association Ltd. David has a Master’s Degree in Law from National University of Singapore and a Master’s Degree in Business from City University, London.

Tiger Zhang
Director
ICS Corporate Services

Tiger is the current Director of Fund Services at ICS, dedicated to providing personalized fund services for fund managers in China. Prior to this, he worked as Finance Director for a number of GPs for several years. His work scope includes all middle and back office matters such as fundraising, fund operations, finance, tax, and compliance. Early in Tiger’s career, he served as a fund audit manager for more than 7 years in KPMG Hong Kong and Deloitte United States. Tiger has a double bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance from San Francisco State University, and is a US Certified Public Accountant (AICPA) and Hong Kong Certified Public Accountant (HKICPA). He is also a Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS).

Cherrin Wong
Counsel
Maples Group

Cherrin Wong is of counsel of Maples and Calder’s Dispute Resolution & Insolvency team in the Maples Group’s Singapore office. She specialises in complex multi-jurisdictional commercial litigation and arbitration, and regularly advises and acts for investment funds, public companies, and other multinational corporate clients on a wide range of contentious matters including shareholder disputes, fair value appraisal litigation, cross-border interim applications such as worldwide freezing injunctions and stay / anti-suit injunction.

Carson Wen
Founder
Bank of Asia

Carson Wen is the Founder of Bank of Asia (BVI) Limited and BOA International Financial Group Limited which also includes various entities with Types 1,2,4 and 9 licenses issued by the Hong Kong Securities and Future Commission. He has practiced law for over 30 years at his own Hong Kong partnership and subsequently as partner at leading global law firms, retiring from Jones Day at the end of 2016. In his long professional career, he handled the capital markets entry of the first PRC-controlled Hong Kong listed company Guangdong Investment, the first window company to be directly listed Guangnan Holdings, some of the first PRC private enterprises to be listed via the “round-trip investment” structure which became standard practice, and some of the first “VIE” structures which also became standard practice. He has also handled many complexly structured transactions as a mergers and acquisitions lawyer. He was regularly listed in the likes of “Who’s Who in the Law” and “Chambers”.

Deon Vanterpool
Vice President
Bank of Asia

Deon Vanterpool has been with Bank of Asia since Sept 2017. He has over a decade worth of executive success expanding organisations. He specializes in strategic operations as well as generating and managing wealth within international corporations and government agencies. Mr. Vanderpool has provided guidance, training, and planning for companies across various industries around the world in every phase of business development, human resources planning, project management and financial planning. Prior to joining Bank of Asia, Mr. Vanterpool managed cash flow and budget planning for the British Virgin Islands Government, executing projects for the Financial Secretary, preparing budgets for legislature approval, and integrating new tax and customs systems to improve efficiency and accuracy. At A.T. Kearney, he provided an multi-national organizations.

Alan Wong
Counsel
Ogier

Alan Wong’s practice focuses on the establishment and structuring of private equity funds, hedge funds and crypto funds in the Cayman Islands and British Virgin Islands, as well as their regulatory compliance and downstream transactions. Alan is a core member of Ogier’s global Technology and Web3 team and is also part of Ogier’s multi-disciplinary Private Equity team. He specialises in fund formation, with a recent focus on blockchain and Web3-related strategies, as well as capital raising and downstream corporate advisory work. He has also advised on various corporate finance matters, including IPOs, M&A, and debt and equity capital market transactions.

Lily Miao
Partner
Appleby

Lily Miao is a Partner in the Corporate department of Appleby’s Hong Kong office. Lily has over a decade of offshore and onshore experience in the Asia and UK market. She advises on a broad spectrum of banking and general corporate transactions, including leveraged and acquisition finance, reorganisations and general corporate lending, with a particularly strong focus on fund finance. Her clients include major international and PRC financial institutions, asset managers, listed and private corporations and nvestment funds. With her proficiency in multiple languages, being a native speaker of English, Mandarin, and Shanghainese, and fluent in Cantonese and German,she is able to work closely with our wider global team and provide advice on Cayman Islands, BVI and Bermuda law matters in the Asia time zone. Prior to joining Appleby, Lily worked at another offshore law firm in Hong Kong, as well as at Clifford Chance’s offices in Hong Kong, London, and Singapore.

Eason Huang
Partner (Shanghai) and Registered Foreign Lawyer (Hong Kong)
Appleby

Eason Huang is a Partner and Registered Foreign Lawyer (England & Wales) of Appleby’s Shanghai office and Hong Kong office respectively, and a member of the Corporate Department. Eason has almost 10 years of offshore experience specialising in the structuring, formation,
organisation and operation of all types of open- and closed-ended funds, including private equity and hedge funds, and their related investment management entities. He counsels funds in all stages of their operations, and regularly advises them on fund formation and governance matters. Eason has significant experience in representing a wide range of sponsors on fund formation matters, as well as a
select group of well-regarded institutional investors in making investments in both private equity and hedge funds around the region. He also has deep knowledge in assisting on crypto-related fund launches. Eason is a native Mandarin speaker and fluent in English and Cantonese. With his Chinese capability, he has extensive experience in handling PRC clients. He is able to work closely with our wider global team and provide advice on Bermuda, BVI and Cayman Islands law matters in the Asia time zone. His clients comprise of Mainland Chinese fund managers, fund sponsors, venture capitalists, as well as local Hong Kong SFC licensed fund managers. He also has a particular focus on fund clients with a China nexus. Prior to returning back to Appleby, Eason was a counsel at another leading offshore law firm.