Sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) have entered a new era of global influence, sophistication, and strategic investment. Their activity increasingly targets innovation and transformation, funding energy transition projects, digital infrastructure, biotech, and frontier technologies, while also reinforcing domestic industrial strategies and capital market development at home. In this episode, Kamar Jaffer, a partner in A&O Shearman’s Middle East Funds and Asset Management practice, is joined by Diego Lopez, founder and managing director of Global SWF, to unpack the latest developments, investment strategies, and structural shifts that are shaping the SWF landscape. Against this backdrop of rapid change and opportunity, the discussion explores several key themes shaping the future of SWFs, including: Their strategic evolution and resilience in the face of global change Transformation in investment approaches and partnership models Innovative deal structures Focus on domestic economies and global expansion Find out more To learn more about our expertise in SWFs and how we can support your business, please contact our Funds and Asset Management team.

In this episode, our Luxembourg partner Baptiste Aubry welcomes London-based fintech partner Ben Regnard-Weinrabe. Fresh from the Fintech Horizons Summit, they sit down to debrief and share key insights gathered during the event, which focused on stablecoins: why they matter, how they’re being used today, and what the future could look like.

In the aftermath of COP30, we hosted a live webinar with specialists from our environment, climate, energy, natural resources, and infrastructure teams. Our experts critically assessed the outcomes of COP30 and distilled the most material takeaways for business, finance and the energy transition. The discussion explores key themes shaping risk and opportunity, including: We assess where things stand with the 1.5°C global temperature goal under the Paris Agreement and the implications of the COP28 UAE Consensus agreed in 2023 following the first Global Stocktake. We analyze the implications for finance, particularly in clean energy, buildings, sustainable fuels, AI data centers, and climate adaptation. We evaluate whether 2026 is on track to be the biggest year yet for carbon markets. We consider how geopolitics, trade tensions, and fiscal constraints factored into the negotiations and outcomes. We identify what ultimately defined COP30, considering characterizations such as “Implementation COP,” “Roadmaps COP,” “Forest COP,” “BRICS COP,” and “COP of Truth.” Speakers: Matt Townsend, partner and global co-head of our Environmental and Climate Law Group, London (Chair) Gauthier van Thuyne, partner, environmental and Climate Law Group, Brussels Michael Diosi, partner, Energy, Natural Resources and Infrastructure Group, London Rachel O’Reilly, partner, Energy, Natural Resources and Infrastructure Group, London Tom d’Ardenne, counsel, Environmental and Climate Law Group, London Ying-Peng Chin, senior knowledge lawyer, Environmental and Climate Law Group, London

As COP30 approaches, climate finance must accelerate, not only to address climate risks, but also to advance national security and economic competitiveness.  In a candid “good cop, bad cop” discussion, our speakers examine where substantive change is occurring, and whether it is driven by COP or by forces outside it. Issues explored include: How are banks and capital markets reshaping their approaches to financing the energy transition?What steps are multilateral development banks taking to become bigger, better, and more effective in funding climate projects? How are market mechanisms, trade levers, and regulatory measures redefining public- and private sector appetite for scaling climate capital? Given misalignments between national interests and the need for global action, is the COP process still fit for purpose? This is the second episode in our COP30-themed podcast series, recorded on October 29 ahead of COP30, which will be held from November 10 to 21.   

Billing COP30 as the “Implementation COP” raises hopes that it will drive concrete progress toward the Paris Agreement’s goals. Yet, amid rapid geopolitical shifts, what outcomes can we realistically expect?  In this podcast, Oour speakers explore, among other critical questions: What influence will the United States exert on COP30 outcomes and broader climate action? Can China, the UK and the EU sustain credible global climate leadership amid the complexities of trade tensions, security-driven onshoring, domestic dynamics, and regulatory recalibration? A decade on from the Paris Agreement,is this talk of implementation all too late? Should we anticipate anything more than incremental movement, particularly in light of the 2025 Nationally Determined Contributions Synthesis Report? Will COP30 reinforce multilateralism—or hasten its demise? This episode launches our COP30-focused podcast series. It was recorded on October 29-30 ahead of COP30, which will be held from November 10 to12.

In this special episode recorded during Luxembourg’s Private Equity Association’s flagship conference “LPEA Insights,” host Laurent Goyer welcomes Elaine Hughes to explore the evolving relationship between European and U.S. asset managers.

Rory Copeland, senior associate in our financial services regulatory team, is joined by partners Jodi Norman (Dubai) and Agnes Tsang (Hong Kong), and counsel Philippe Noeltner (Luxembourg), to discuss current and emerging developments in how distributed ledger technology is reshaping debt issuance.   Drawing on recent landmark transactions in their respective jurisdictions, the speakers explore regulatory approaches in Europe, Hong Kong, and the Middle East, including the goals of achieving technological neutrality, legal certainty and operational efficiency.   Key themes discussed by the group include atomic settlement, various payment mechanisms and the integration of digital assets into existing market infrastructures.   The speakers offer their respective views on market readiness, legal frameworks and the future developments that are likely to shape the opportunities and challenges presented by digital bonds and the establishment of blockchain-based capital markets.

Philippe Noeltner, a Luxembourg-based counsel in A&O Shearman’s global financial markets team, is joined by partners Susan Gault-Brown (Washington DC), Nikki Johnstone (London), and senior associate Quentin Herry (Paris) to examine the legal and regulatory developments shaping the market for crypto-linked exchange-traded products (ETPs). The speakers analyze the regulatory landscape in the U.S., UK, as well as in France and the wider EU market, focusing on recent moves to enable retail access to crypto ETPs. They discuss the role of custodians in their respective markets, and the challenges presented by structuring ETPs and ensuring adequate investor protection. They also explore the practical implications of crypto ETPs for issuers, asset managers and investors, particularly the need to find the right balance between supporting innovation, proportionate regulation, and managing market appetite. This episode was recorded in August 2025. As part of our Fintech Horizons Summits series, our experts share insights on staying ahead in fintech and digital assets. Join us at an upcoming event to explore the latest innovations and opportunities.

In this episode of A&O Shearman’s Market Horizons podcast, Amanda Thomas (partner, London) and Jen Cresswell (counsel, London) unpack what the overhaul means for debt capital markets practitioners and how the UK’s approach will diverge from the EU’s amended Prospectus Regulation.

We are seeing increasing use of preferred and minority/ structured equity as a means for investors to provide flexible capital whilst still retaining downside and credit focussed protections. Increasingly the domain of credit and hybrid capital providers, preferred equity investments may incorporate range of features that are bespoke to the issuers and investors’ needs.  In this podcast our private equity and capital solutions team consisting of Peter Banks, Kfir Abutbul, Michael Mountain and Karen McMaster have produced a podcast exploring the key themes and practical considerations shaping this sector.

In our latest Global Insights podcast—hosted by former Financial Times EU correspondent, Javier Espinoza—our partners explore how the European Commission is adapting its policy agenda to global events and how multinational organizations are responding to its efforts to simplify its regulatory structures.

In our latest Trump session—a series of regular briefings exploring the impact of U.S. policy shifts on global business—our partners reveal how market participants are responding to developments—and how businesses and investors can succeed in this rapidly evolving environment.

The environmental, social, and governance (ESG) landscape is facing unprecedented turbulence in 2025, with political shifts, economic headwinds, and regulatory divergence creating a complex environment for businesses worldwide. In our latest podcast, Matthew Townsend and Jochem Spaans unpack the realities behind the headlines, offering expert analysis and practical guidance for navigating this evolving terrain, including: The Trump effect on ESG in the U.S.: How is President Trump’s return to the White House reshaping ESG policy in the U.S. Asset managers and climate alliances: Why are major asset managers withdrawing from global climate alliances, and what does this mean for the future of sustainable investment strategies? Europe’s shifting ESG leadership: Is Europe’s reputation as the regulatory powerhouse of ESG under threat as the EU recalibrates its approach to balance climate ambition with economic competitiveness? Market realities for ESG-labelled funds: Why has 2025 seen record outflows from ESG-labelled funds and a cooling of the sustainability loans and bonds market—and does this signal the end of green finance? The rise of ESG and climate litigation: With the new wave of climate and ESG litigation, what are the growing risks for directors and boards, and which sectors are now in the firing line? Supply chain transparency challenges: What are the real-world challenges of achieving supply chain transparency, and why might the next competitive advantage lie in the ability to trace and prove responsible sourcing? • The future of ESG in the boardroom: Will ESG still be a boardroom talking point in 2040, or will it simply become part of normal business practice? Navigating divergent regulations: What are the practical strategies to navigate diverging ESG regulations across the U.S. and Europe, including tailoring disclosures and managing legal risks in different markets? The centrality of governance: Why is robust governance now central to ESG, and how can it protect businesses from reputational and legal pitfalls in a rapidly changing environment? Looking ahead: What is the future of sustainability, disclosure, and corporate responsibility—and what should businesses be doing now to stay ahead? Join us for a frank and insightful discussion on the future of ESG, the emerging challenges and evolving opportunities ahead, and the practical implications for global businesses in a rapidly changing landscape.

Welcome to the Fintech and Blockchain Podcast, where we explore cutting-edge issues and emerging opportunities at the intersection of financial technology and digital assets.In this episode, we discuss the SEC staff’s evolving position on the security status of USD-backed stablecoins, a topic with major implications for issuers, platforms, and investors. We break down: What stablecoins are and why they matter; The key categories of stablecoins; Regulatory scrutiny and ongoing policy debates; Prudential oversight frameworks and international alignment; Challenges posed by decentralized finance (DeFi); Operational and systemic risks; and The legal and regulatory classification of stablecoins in the U.S. Joining us for this conversation are three leading voices from our global Fintech and Blockchain group: Dario de Martino, M&A partner in our New York office and lead of our global fintech and blockchain practice. Susan Gault-Brown, partner in Washington, D.C., whose practice focuses on advising U.S. and non-U.S. asset managers and financial entities on regulatory compliance and structuring, including work with exemptive regimes. Bill Satchell, of counsel in Washington, D.C., with nearly four decades of experience advising banks and financial institutions on complex regulatory issues. This is a deep and practical conversation on how regulators are approaching stablecoins, and where the regulatory landscape may be heading. Listen in for insights that matter to anyone navigating digital finance today.

In this episode of The Fuse Podcast by A&O Shearman, Shruti Ajitsaria, Head of A&O Shearman’s tech innovation hub is joined by a panel of industry leaders to explore the evolving landscape of digital assets.

Voices for Change by A&O Shearman builds a community of inclusive thinkers and thought leaders. Join Justin Farrance, our Global DE&I Ambassador, as he interviews colleagues and clients about their personal stories, commitment to inclusion and advice for others to learn from. Stay up to date with new episodes every month. Episode 3 launches to coincide with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on Tuesday, December 3. This episode aims to raise awareness about the positive impact of employing individuals with additional needs – both for the benefit of our firm and wider society. Justin is joined by Florence Garrett, a conference waiter who has Down Syndrome. Florence shares her personal story, and the valuable contributions she makes both in her job, as well as with various charities and external organizations. Together with David Campbell (partner) and Campbell Brown (catering general manager), the episode suggests different ways in which organisations can set people with additional needs up for success, and a call to action for others to extend their support for similar initiatives. Tag and share your thoughts with us on social media.

Voices for Change by A&O Shearman builds a community of inclusive thinkers and thought leaders. Join Justin Farrance, our Global DE&I Ambassador, as he interviews colleagues and clients about their personal stories, commitment to inclusion and advice for others to learn from. Stay up to date with new episodes every month. Episode 3 launches to coincide with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on Tuesday, December 3. This episode aims to raise awareness about the positive impact of employing individuals with additional needs – both for the benefit of our firm and wider society. Justin is joined by Florence Garrett, a conference waiter who has Down Syndrome. Florence shares her personal story, and the valuable contributions she makes both in her job, as well as with various charities and external organizations. Together with David Campbell (partner) and Campbell Brown (catering general manager), the episode suggests different ways in which organisations can set people with additional needs up for success, and a call to action for others to extend their support for similar initiatives. Tag and share your thoughts with us on social media.

"In order to lead and perform at my best, I need to prioritise wellbeing" From beating the odds to gain a place at Cambridge University, to losing a training contract offer due to a law firm's bankruptcy, to becoming Deputy GC at G42, Donya’s career is a testament to determination and maintaining a positive mindset. In the latest episode of Voices for Change, Justin Farrance, A&O Shearman’s global DE&I ambassador, sits down with Donya Fredj in Abu Dhabi. Discover Donya’s leadership journey, her focus on wellbeing and inclusion within the region, and what truly matters when selecting and working with panel law firms. Voices for Change by A&O Shearman builds a community of inclusive thinkers and thought leaders. Join Justin Farrance, our global DE&I ambassador, as he interviews colleagues and clients about their personal stories, commitment to inclusion, and advice for others to learn from. Stay up to date with new episodes every month. 

"In order to lead and perform at my best, I need to prioritise wellbeing" From beating the odds to gain a place at Cambridge University, to losing a training contract offer due to a law firm's bankruptcy, to becoming Deputy GC at G42, Donya’s career is a testament to determination and maintaining a positive mindset. In the latest episode of Voices for Change, Justin Farrance, A&O Shearman’s global DE&I ambassador, sits down with Donya Fredj in Abu Dhabi. Discover Donya’s leadership journey, her focus on wellbeing and inclusion within the region, and what truly matters when selecting and working with panel law firms. Voices for Change by A&O Shearman builds a community of inclusive thinkers and thought leaders. Join Justin Farrance, our global DE&I ambassador, as he interviews colleagues and clients about their personal stories, commitment to inclusion, and advice for others to learn from. Stay up to date with new episodes every month.

Growing up in the U.K. foster care system and working night shifts at McDonald’s had a huge impact on Jodi Norman and her journey to become a lawyer and partner. In the latest episode of Voices for Change, Justin Farrance, A&O Shearman’s global DE&I ambassador, sits down with Jodi, META Inclusion partner and regional head of financial regulatory, filmed in our Abu Dhabi office. Discover Jodi's incredible journey – a story of resilience, authenticity, and the transformative power of support. Jodi reflects on her childhood and background, her hopes in sharing her personal story, and how she is contributing to a culture where everyone belongs.  Voices for Change by A&O Shearman builds a community of inclusive thinkers and thought leaders. Join Justin Farrance, our global DE&I ambassador, as he interviews colleagues and clients about their personal stories, commitment to inclusion and advice for others to learn from. Stay up to date with new episodes every month.