SALC Law firm in Stockholm, Sweden, a member of the GA, acting through lawyers Dan Engström and Elin Nilsson, have successfully represented the Republic of Moldova in an Investor-State dispute.

On February 14, 2025, the Svea Court of Appeal in Stockholm, (Sweden), rejected the application filed by Komaksavia Airport Invest Ltd (“Komaksavia”) against the Republic of Moldova regarding the set-aside of an arbitral award of August 3, 2022, issued by an arbitral tribunal under the Rules of the SCC Arbitration Institute (previously the Arbitration Institute of the Stockholm Chamber of Commerce).The dispute began following Komaksavia's claims regarding its alleged investment in Avia Invest SRL, the – at that point in time -  concessionaire of Chisinau International Airport. In May 2020, Komaksavia initiated arbitration against the Republic of Moldova, claiming that the state had acted discriminatory and in breach of it’s undertakings under the BIT, interfered with Komaksavia’s alleged investment, which the Republic of Moldova contested. In August 2022, the arbitral tribunal found that Komaksavia had not made a protected investment under the bilateral investment treaty  (between the Republic of Cyprus and the Republic of Moldova) and dismissed Komaksavia’s claim on the basis of lack of jurisdiction.The losing party Komaksavia brought the matter to the Svea Court of Appeal for revision under the Swedish Arbitration Act, claiming that the award should be set-aside.

The Svea Court of Appeal however fully accepted the position of the Republic of Moldova, represented by SALC LAW FIRM,  and ordered Komaksavia to pay all the state's legal cost

The client, the Republic of Moldova, has expressed its great satisfaction over the representation and outcome of the matter. SALC is, of course, very satisfied with the outcome even if there is room, limited but still room, for the Swedish Supreme Court to grant leave to appeal.

We are proud to announce that our Partner Ilario Giangrossi has won the award as Lawyer of the Year in Finance Litigation at the Legalcommunity Finance Awards 2025, with the following motivation: "The lawyer is one of the most renowned and respected litigators in the finance sector, with a solid track record of handling high-stakes disputes and representing some of the industry's leading players."

Congratulations to our esteemed Partner and the entire team!

View more about the Awards

Siamo lieti di annunciare che GA è stato riconosciuto come uno degli Studi Legali di eccellenza nella prestigiosa classifica del Corriere della Sera per il 2025.

Questo importante riconoscimento testimonia il nostro costante impegno verso l'innovazione, la gestione delle risorse umane e la sostenibilità.

Un Contest di Prestigio

Il contest del Corriere della Sera, giunto alla sua seconda edizione, ha visto una partecipazione in crescita rispetto al 2024, con oltre 200 studi legali candidati. Di questi, 71 sono stati inclusi nella categoria "Top Ranking" e 85 nella categoria "Studi Legali dell'Anno 2025". Il comitato scientifico di Ranking Professioni, presieduto dal professore Umberto Frigelli dell'Università Cattolica di Milano, ha utilizzato criteri di valutazione multidisciplinari per selezionare gli studi legali più meritevoli.

I Criteri di Valutazione

Il nostro Studio Legale è stato valutato in base a una serie di parametri che riflettono i fattori critici di successo di uno studio legale moderno. Tra questi:

Il Nostro Impegno

Il riconoscimento del Corriere della Sera è una conferma del nostro impegno verso l'eccellenza. Continueremo a lavorare con dedizione per mantenere e migliorare i nostri standard, offrendo ai nostri clienti servizi legali di altia qualità. Un ringraziamento speciale va anche ai nostri clienti e al nostro team, il cui supporto e dedizione sono fondamentali per il nostro successo.

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. 

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 Maddalena Boffoli, Partner at GA!

See her profile: Link

What has been the most rewarding moment of your career so far?Every time a client expresses gratitude for the support and guidance I have provided—especially when working alongside my team—is deeply rewarding. Knowing that I’ve made a meaningful impact on someone’s life or business is what makes this profession truly fulfilling.

What inspired you to become a lawyer?I have always aspired to be a lawyer. My motivation stems from a deep-seated instinct to protect and advocate for those who place their trust in me, as well as the intellectual challenge of finding the right solution. As Albert Szent-Györgyi famously said, "Discovery consists of seeing what everybody has seen and thinking what nobody has thought."

What are the most important current laws affecting potential investors in your country?Rather than a specific law, the key factor for potential investors is the current political and economic stability, which plays a crucial role in fostering a secure and favorable investment environment

GA si espande in Armenia, con l’ingresso in Alliance di Legelata LLC  GA, studio legale e fiscale internazionale con 12 sedi in Italia e uffici diretti a New York, Lugano, Bruxelles, Londra e Parigi, e con un professionisti presenti in oltre 70 giurisdizioni, guidato dal Managing Partner Francesco Sciaudone, rafforza ancora la sua presenza in Asia, grazie all’ingresso in Alliance di LLC Legal and Tax, per assistere i clienti in Armenia.  Legelata - nuovo partner di GA - con sede a Yerevan, è uno dei principali studi legali in Armenia. Con i nuovi partner, GA potrà assistere i clienti in diverse aree di attività, banking&finance, M&A, contenzioso e arbitrati, proprietà intellettuale e diritto tributario. 

GA punta ad essere un punto di riferimento per la clientela internazionale interessata alla regione del Caucaso. La posizione strategica dell'Armenia, al crocevia tra Europa e Asia, la rende infatti un mercato molto rilevante per gli investimenti internazionali, in particolare nei settori della tecnologia, produzione manifatturiera e delle infrastrutture. 

"Siamo molto contenti per l’arrivo dei qualificati professionisti di Legelata e della possibilita’ di avviare l’attività in Armenia: si tratta di una crescita importante per GA che vuole sempre più offrire un one stop shop per i clienti che vogliono crescere sui mercati internazionali”: ha dichiarato Francesco Sciaudone, Managing Partner di GA. 

GA (Grimaldi Alliance) si espande in Africa con la nuova partnership in Angola grazie a FBL Advogados 

GA, studio legale e fiscale internazionale con 12 sedi in Italia e uffici diretti a New York, Lugano, Bruxelles, Londra e Parigi, e con un network attivo in oltre 70 giurisdizioni, guidato dal Managing Partner Francesco Sciaudone, rafforza ancora la sua presenza in Africa grazie alla partnership con FBL Advogadosin Angola. 

FBL Advogados - nuovo partner di GA - è il principale studio legale in Angola, fondato nel 2004, è caratterizzato da una visione strategica internazionale e da un importante track record in operazioni cross-border con player globali. Con un team locale senior e di grande esperienza - GA potra’ cosi’ seguire i clienti in Angola nei seguenti principali ambiti: 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 e Litigation and arbitration. 

L'Angola, tra le economie più dinamiche dell'Africa, ha registrato una crescita media del PIL superiore al 3% negli ultimi cinque anni, diventando un hub strategico per investimenti in settori come energia, risorse naturali e infrastrutture. 

Lo scenario di crescita dell’Angola e dell’area offrono a GA e ai clienti interessati un mercato in forte crescita. "L'ingresso di FBL Advogadosin GA rappresenta un passo fondamentale nella nostra strategia di espansione sul mercato africano", ha dichiarato Francesco Sciaudone, Managing Partner di GA. “GA si conferma un ponte strategico per tutte le imprese che desiderano espandere le loro attività all'estero. La nostra presenza in Angola ci permetterà di ampliare ulteriormente la nostra capacità di accompagnare le aziende sul mercato africano, garantendo loro un supporto legale su misura basato su una profonda conoscenza del contesto

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.

View more: Link

GA è anche ad Hong Kong: nuovo sviluppo della presenza di GA nell’Asia Pacifico, con Justin Chow & De Bedin Solicitors LLP

GA, studio legale e fiscale internazionale con 12 sedi in Italia e uffici diretti a New York, Lugano, Bruxelles, Londra e Parigi, attivo in oltre 60 giurisdizioni grazie ai partner di GA, guidato dal Managing Partner Francesco Sciaudone, rafforza la sua presenza in Asia ed in particolare apre ad Hong Kong, grazie alla nuova partnership con Justin Chow & De Bedin Solicitors LLP.

Justin Chow & De Bedin Solicitors LLP è una rinomata boutique legale di Hong Kong che offre servizi di altissimo profilo in diverse aree di competenza, tra cui finanza, M&A, indagini SFC, blockchain, private equity, privacy dei dati, proprietà intellettuale e una vasta gamma di servizi professionali per l’intero mercato asiatico.

Dopo l’ingresso di Candice Yang come coordinatrice dell’Area Asia Pacifico di GA l’avvio delle attività ad Hong Kong è un nuovo importante sviluppo. Si tratta di uno dei principali centri finanziari del mondo e un punto di riferimento per il commercio e gli investimenti internazionali. Con oltre 2.500 società quotate e una capitalizzazione di mercato che supera i 47.000 miliardi di dollari di Hong Kong (circa 6.000 miliardi di dollari USA), la città offre un ambiente ideale per le imprese globali.

“L'ingresso di un prestigioso partner per Hong Kong rappresenta un tassello fondamentale nella strategia di espansione di GA sul mercato asiatico," ha dichiarato Francesco Sciaudone, Managing Partner di GA. “GA si conferma un ponte strategico per tutti gli imprenditori che desiderano espandere le loro attività all'estero. La nostra collaborazione con Justin Chow & De Bedin Solicitors ci permetterà di ampliare ulteriormente la nostra capacità di supportare le aziende nei mercati asiatici, garantendo loro un'assistenza legale e fiscale su misura e basata su una profonda conoscenza del contesto locale.”