Faces and Stories of GA

Through this initiative, “Faces and Stories of GA,” we invite you to step behind the scenes of our firm to discover the distinctive blend of human and professional qualities that define GA.

Using the voices of our professionals, we will delve into the most significant moments of their careers, the motivations that drive them, and their insights on the laws and changes shaping our industry.

Today, we are pleased to introduce you to Palawi Bunnag, Partner at ILCT Ltd.!

Palawi is at the cutting edge of business development in Thailand and surrounding regions. She holds two distinguished law degrees from a reputable Thai university and a prestigious UK university. Armed with her training in the common law and civil law and international business transactions, she has been dedicating her career to foster the development of cross-border trades and direct foreign investments for more than two decades.

What has been the most rewarding moment of your career so far?

There have been several rewarding moments, but I think one of the most rewarding moment of my career is to be receive several awards, including but not limited to being  ranked on the A-List Top 100 lawyers in Thailand by Asia Business Law Journal for 3 consecutive years and awarded as a “highly recommended lawyer” by Legal 500, as well as, helping the firm to achieve the top 10 law firm ranking in the M&A capital market section. 

What has been the most interesting or important case you have handled?

It’s hard to pick just one, but one case that stands out is the conversion of a property fund to a REIT, which was the first of its kind in Thailand. This was a landmark transaction for the Thai capital markets, and it required a deep understanding of both local regulations and international financial laws.  More recently, I had been involved in designing the eco-system of the Real Estate ICO laws with the Securities and Exchange Commission, Thailand and managed to obtain a licence for a real-estate backed ICO Portal for a client. These projects stand out because they represent the intersection of legal expertise with cutting-edge business and technology.  All M&A cases and other cases are unique and interesting, especially when we have to negotiate with the other parties on behalf of the client in order to safeguard their interests.

What recent legislative changes in your country have had a significant impact?

A few recent legislative changes have really reshaped the investment landscape. The Board of Investment regulations have been periodically amended to attract investors and promote specific industries.  The Digital Asset Business Act is one that’s having a big impact, especially in the FinTech sector. It’s providing much-needed clarity on the regulation of digital currencies, ICOs, and blockchain-based businesses, which is opening up new opportunities in Thailand. Additionally, the tax regulations have also been revised regularly based on the current government’s policies.  Not to mention immigration laws such as visa exemptions and long-term residence (LTR) visa in order to support foreigners who wish to reside or work in Thailand. 

GA Expands into Armenia with the Addition of Legelata LLC to the Alliance

GA, an international law and tax firm with 12 offices in Italy and direct offices in New York, Lugano, Brussels, London, and Paris, and professionals present in over 70 jurisdictions, led by Managing Partner Francesco Sciaudone, further strengthens its presence in Asia with the addition of LLC Legal and Tax to the Alliance, to assist clients in Armenia.

Legelata – GA’s new partner – based in Yerevan, is one of the leading law firms in Armenia. With the new partnership, GA will be able to assist clients in various practice areas, including banking & finance, M&A, litigation and arbitration, intellectual property, and tax law.

GA aims to become a reference point for international clients interested in the Caucasus region. Armenia's strategic location, at the crossroads between Europe and Asia, makes it a highly relevant market for international investments, particularly in technology, manufacturing, and infrastructure sectors.

“We are very pleased to welcome the qualified professionals of Legelata and the opportunity to start operations in Armenia. This is an important growth for GA, which aims to increasingly offer a one-stop shop for clients seeking to grow in international markets,” said Francesco Sciaudone, Managing Partner of GA.

GA (Grimaldi Alliance) Expands into Africa with a New Partnership in Angola through FBL Advogados

GA, an international law and tax firm with 12 offices in Italy and direct branches in New York, Lugano, Brussels, London, and Paris, as well as an active network spanning over 70 jurisdictions, led by Managing Partner Francesco Sciaudone (pictured), continues to strengthen its presence in Africa through a partnership with FBL Advogados in Angola.

FBL Advogados – GA's new partner – is Angola's leading law firm. Established in 2004, it is recognized for its international strategic vision and an impressive track record in cross-border transactions with global players. With a senior and highly experienced local team, GA will now be able to assist clients in Angola across key areas such as Corporate, M&A and Private Equity, Natural Resources Law, Oil & Gas, Energy and Mining, Real Estate, Property Law and Land Use, Administrative and Tax Law, Employment Law, and Litigation and Arbitration.

Angola, one of Africa’s most dynamic economies, has recorded an average GDP growth rate exceeding 3% over the past five years, becoming a strategic hub for investments in sectors such as energy, natural resources, and infrastructure. The growth prospects in Angola and the region offer GA and its clients a rapidly expanding market.

“The inclusion of FBL Advogados in GA represents a pivotal step in our strategy to expand into the African market,” said Francesco Sciaudone, Managing Partner of GA. “GA reaffirms its role as a strategic bridge for companies seeking to expand their activities internationally. Our presence in Angola will enable us to further enhance our ability to support businesses entering the African market, providing them with tailored legal support rooted in a deep understanding of the local context.”

Faces and Stories of GA

Through this initiative, “Faces and Stories of GA,” we invite you to step behind the scenes of our firm to discover the distinctive blend of human and professional qualities that define GA.

Using the voices of our professionals, we will delve into the most significant moments of their careers, the motivations that drive them, and their insights on the laws and changes shaping our industry.

Today, we are pleased to introduce you to Mallika E.S Margherita, Partner at ILCT Ltd.!

Mallika, a Thai national of Italian heritage. She is a lawyer of a bilingual background. Having grew up in a bilingual environment, Ms. Mallika possesses unique and rare multicultural knowledge. She graduated LLB from a notable Thai university along with an LLM from a US law school. Following her education, she has been practicing law for more than three decades.

What is the most important advice you would give to someone starting this career?

The most important advice I would give to anyone starting a legal career would be to really understand the world around you, not just the law. Law isn’t just about knowing the rules, it’s about understanding people, cultures, and how businesses operate.  In today’s interconnected world, it’s incredibly important to be able to navigate different legal systems, especially in cross-border work. Being bilingual or multilingual is a huge advantage, as it allows you to bridge cultural and legal differences. Don't be afraid to take on challenges, whether that’s a complex cross-border deal or adapting to new legal developments. Law is constantly evolving, so being flexible and willing to learn is key.

What was your main motivation for becoming a lawyer?

I think my motivation came from a mix of curiosity and a desire to make a real impact. Growing up in a bilingual environment, I was naturally drawn to the idea of working across cultures. I wanted to use my legal skills to help people and businesses from different parts of the world. I enjoy the challenge of solving complex problems, particularly when it means opening doors for others in a new market. It’s incredibly satisfying to assist clients in overcoming legal barriers and achieving success in a foreign market.

What are the most important current laws affecting potential investors in your country?

For anyone looking to invest in Thailand, the Foreign Business Act is one of the most important laws to keep in mind, especially because it restricts foreign ownership in certain sectors. But there are ways to work around these limitations, especially if you’re working with Thai partners or using other structures that the law allows. The Board of Investment (BOI) is also a key resource for foreign investors. They offer incentives like tax exemptions and other benefits, depending on the sector you’re investing in—especially in tourism, manufacturing, and tech. Additionally, if you’re considering real estate, there are restrictions on foreign ownership, and the rules can get a little complicated, so it’s always wise to seek legal advice.

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Grimaldi Alliance Expands to Hong Kong: New Development in GA’s Presence in the Asia Pacific Region, with Justin Chow & De Bedin Solicitors LLP

GA, an international law and tax firm with 12 offices in Italy and direct offices in New York, Lugano, Brussels, London, and Paris, active in over 60 jurisdictions through its GA partners, led by Managing Partner Francesco Sciaudone, strengthens its presence in Asia with a new office in Hong Kong, in partnership with Justin Chow & De Bedin Solicitors LLP.

Justin Chow & De Bedin Solicitors LLP is a renowned legal boutique in Hong Kong providing top-tier services across various practice areas, including finance, M&A, SFC investigations, blockchain, private equity, data privacy, intellectual property, and a wide range of professional services for the entire Asian market.

Following the appointment of Candice Yang as the coordinator for GA’s Asia Pacific Area, the launch of activities in Hong Kong marks another significant milestone. Hong Kong is one of the world’s leading financial hubs and a key center for international trade and investment. With over 2,500 listed companies and a market capitalization exceeding HK$47 trillion (approximately US$6 trillion), the city offers an ideal environment for global businesses.

“The addition of a prestigious partner in Hong Kong is a key element in GA's strategy for expansion in the Asian market," said Francesco Sciaudone, Managing Partner of GA. “GA continues to be a strategic bridge for entrepreneurs seeking to expand their businesses internationally. Our collaboration with Justin Chow & De Bedin Solicitors will enable us to further enhance our capacity to support companies in Asian markets, providing them with tailored legal and tax services based on an in-depth understanding of the local context.”

Candice Yang is the new partner and coordinator of the Asia Region at GA, the international law firm with 12 offices across Italy and direct offices in New York, Lugano, Brussels, London, and Paris. Operating in over 60 jurisdictions worldwide, GA is led by Managing Partner Francesco Sciaudone.

Since 2022, GA has maintained a strategic partnership with Yingke Law Firm, the world’s largest law firm, boasting over 13,000 professionals across 130 offices in China and beyond. The addition of Candice Yang marks a strategic step forward in GA's efforts to expand its legal services in Asian markets, which are playing an increasingly pivotal role in global economic growth.

Candice Yang previously worked at Gianni & Origoni until 2018, before joining Eversheds, where she split her time between Milan and London as Chief Asia Strategist. At the latter law firm, she founded the China Desk, facilitating operations across Europe, the UK, and China.

Her extensive career, which includes roles in locations such as China, San Diego, and Mumbai, has enabled her to cultivate a robust network of international connections in strategic industries including automotive, luxury marine, and financial services.

“We are honored to welcome Candice to GA. Her extensive international experience will undoubtedly enhance our professional capabilities, providing both strategic and relational insights for the Firm,” said Francesco Sciaudone, Managing Partner of GA. “As GA's Asia Area Coordinator, I am confident she will drive significant growth for the Firm in this key region.”

Lisa Alice Julien new Board Member of the Italian Chamber of Commerce for France (CCI France Italie)

We are pleased to share that our Partner, Lawyer in France and in Italy, Lisa Alice Julien, is now Member of the Board the Italian Chamber of Commerce for France (CCI France Italie).

This esteemed role reflects Lisa Alice’s unwavering commitment to fostering strong economic and professional ties between Italy and France.

Her strategic vision and deep expertise will undoubtedly contribute to the continued growth and success of the Chamber, as well as to the strengthening of collaboration between the two countries.Learn more about the Chamber's governance: https://www.chambre.it/chi-siamo/governance.html

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Lisa Alice Julien on this significant achievement!

Grimaldi Alliance is proud to announce that it has been recognized as the Best Law Firm 2024 at the prestigious AssoNext Awards.

This esteemed accolade, awarded to us for the second consecutive year following our success in 2023, is a testament to the professionalism, dedication, and commitment that underpin our work. It reflects our continuous efforts to deliver outstanding legal services and innovative solutions to meet the needs of our clients in an ever-evolving landscape.

We extend our sincere gratitude to all the professionals within our network, whose expertise and dedication are at the core of our success. We also thank our valued clients and partners, whose trust and collaboration have been fundamental in achieving this milestone.

This recognition reinforces our commitment to upholding the highest standards of excellence and innovation, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of the legal profession. Grimaldi Alliance will continue to pursue its mission of providing top-tier legal services and fostering long-term partnerships built on trust, reliability, and exceptional results.

Grimaldi Alliance, an international law firm with 12 offices in Italy and direct offices in New York, Lugano, Brussels, London, and Paris, as well as a network active in over 60 jurisdictions, led by Managing Partner Francesco Sciaudone, strengthens its presence in South America by consolidating its partnership with VIVANCO & VIVANCO and opening new offices in Chile and Peru.

GA will now be able to support its clients—thanks to the team at Vivanco & Vivanco—with dedicated teams in both Peru and Chile.

This collaboration represents a strategic step forward for Grimaldi Alliance, reaffirming its global leadership in providing legal assistance for the internationalization of businesses, now extending its reach to South America. GA offers tailored support to help businesses grow in the continent’s most dynamic markets.

GA’s operations in Peru will be coordinated by Javier Bedoya Denegri, a lawyer with over 15 years of experience in administrative, dispute resolution, civil, corporate, and infrastructure law, leading a team of 30 professionals located in Lima and Ica.

Operations in Chile will be led by Diego Guerrero, a corporate law expert with a solid international academic background, supported by a team of multidisciplinary professionals. The team offers full-service legal support, including civil, commercial, corporate, labor, and immigration law services.

"The entry into Chile and Peru, along with the strengthened collaboration with Vivanco & Vivanco, allows Grimaldi Alliance to continue its expansion strategy in the Latin American markets," said Francesco Sciaudone, Managing Partner of Grimaldi Alliance. "Grimaldi Alliance confirms itself as a strategic bridge for all entrepreneurs wishing to expand their activities abroad. We are ready to further enhance our ability to assist businesses in the vast South American market, providing them with tailored legal support based on a deep understanding of the local context."