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Standing International Forum of Commercial Courts (SIFoCC)

SIFoCC’s history

SIFoCC was established in 2016 under the leadership of Lord Thomas, former Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales, to encourage collaboration among national commercial courts of different jurisdictions. The inaugural meeting in London on 4-5 May 2017 gathered senior judges from 25 different jurisdictions. It aimed to enhance the rule of law worldwide and promote international legal services. Since its inception, SIFoCC has expanded to encompass 58 Member Jurisdictions and conducted regular meetings in New York in 2019, Singapore in 2021, Sydney in 2022, and Doha in April 2024.

SIFoCC’s key objectives

SIFoCC tackles global challenges by encouraging Alternative Dispute Resolution (“ADR”) methods and by enabling knowledge exchange among commercial courts of different jurisdictions.

Its main goals are (i) serving users by sharing best practices to keep up with rapid commercial changes, benefiting businesses and markets; (ii) enhancing the rule of law by fostering global court collaboration in order to contribute to legal stability; and (iii) supporting developing jurisdictions by improving attractiveness to investors.

The cooperation, encouraged by SIFoCC, improves standards, ensures fair access to justice, and strengthens the rule of law, while providing predictability and boosting investor confidence.

SIFoCC’s work

SIFoCC is committed to advancing global legal standards by sharing best practices, producing detailed reports, and disseminating knowledge through publications and speeches.

Promoting legal development

In October 2022, SIFoCC held its Fourth Full Meeting, hosted by the Federal Court of Australia and the Supreme Court of New South Wales. This meeting resulted in the publication of a significant report addressing the key topics discussed during the meeting:¹ Integrated dispute resolution systems, managing increasingly complex disputes, future challenges in corporate legal responsibility, and international jurisdictional conflicts.

The report highlights SIFoCC’s dedication to fostering a globalised commercial justice system, encouraging the harmonisation of national commercial laws worldwide, and treating international commercial law as a cohesive system rather than a collection of isolated regulations.

Construction and energy disputes across jurisdictions

SIFoCC strongly focuses on disputes related to energy, construction, and infrastructure, and members frequently contribute through speeches and publications on these topics.

For example, the Honourable Chief Justice Sundaresh Menon of the Singapore Supreme Court, a distinguished SIFoCC member, recently emphasised the role of International Commercial Courts in managing complex construction disputes.² International Commercial Courts  are recognised for their procedural flexibility, the rights they grant to foreign counsel, and their ability to include third parties. They also ensure high-quality decision-making with internationally renowned judges.

Given the transnational aspects that often characterise  construction and energy projects and relating disputes, SIFoCC regularly publishes comparative law memoranda to address multi-jurisdictional issues.

In March 2024, SIFoCC released its Multilateral Memorandum on Enforcement of Commercial Judgments for Money,³  offering an in-depth analysis of enforcement practices in over 30 jurisdictions, including South Korea, Brazil, Uganda, China, Australia, Germany, Singapore, Canada, and England. This memorandum explores how these jurisdictions can enforce each other’s commercial judgments, thereby advancing global legal cooperation and resolution of disputes.

SIFoCC and ADR

ADR methods heavily rely on the support of judicial courts in order to ensure their efficiency and enforceability. SIFoCC is committed to promoting the development and integration of ADR mechanisms with active backing from national courts. SIFoCC’s strategic partnership enhances the credibility and effectiveness of ADR processes, making them more reliable and accessible for resolving commercial disputes.

SIFoCC released the “International Best Practice in Case Management” during its 5th Full Meeting in Doha on 20 April 2024 as part of its ongoing efforts.* This document analyses how national courts across various jurisdictions support ADR mechanisms and defines best practices for managing complex disputes effectively.

The degree to which commercial judges engage with ADR methods varies in each jurisdiction. However, incorporating ADR into judicial practices can offer significant value by facilitating settlement of disputes in appropriate cases. Case Management Conferences (“CMCs”) may play a crucial role in providing a platform to explore settlement opportunities. CMCs should be considered an integral part of ADR rather than separate from it. Judges can play a vital role by referring cases to formal ADR processes when a settlement seems likely. However, this referral should be carefully monitored to ensure it is not merely a delaying tactic but a genuine effort to resolve the matter.

SIFoCC advocates for the establishment of uniform rules to promote consistency and fairness in ADR practices across jurisdictions. Standardising ADR procedures helps eliminate discrepancies between jurisdictions and ensures a predictable and stable environment for businesses operating in multiple countries.

Construction and energy projects, known for their complexity and frequent cross-border nature, are particularly susceptible to lead to disputes. These projects often face challenges such as contractual disagreements and delays. By fostering collaboration among national courts and promoting standardised ADR practices, SIFoCC enhances legal certainty and provides robust support for resolving construction and energy disputes through CMCs and ADR methods.

In summary, SIFoCC’s initiatives to support ADR methods through judicial collaboration and establishing uniform rules significantly enhance ADR decisions’ predictability, efficiency, and enforceability. These initiatives are especially beneficial in complex and cross-border disputes disputes, which often derive from infrastructure projects, where reliable dispute resolution is essential for maintaining smooth operations and ensuring a stable investment environment.

Conclusion

SIFoCC fosters cooperation among national commercial courts, facilitates the exchange of best practices and contributes to building a unified and effective global commercial justice system. By tackling the complexity of our interconnected world, SIFoCC is crucial in defining legal standards, guaranteeing access to justice, and bolstering global economic stability and growth.

Please visit SIFoCC’s official website (https://sifocc.org/resources/) to learn more about its activities, its reports, publications, and published speeches.

Sources:

Best Practice in Case Management presented at the 5th Full Meeting in Doha on 20 April 2024: https://sifocc-events.org/sifoccs-5th-full-meeting#programme

¹ Available at https://sifocc.org/sifocc_documents/sifocc-memorandum-on-enforcement-2nd-with-international-working-group-commentary/

² Available at https://sifocc-events.org/sifoccs-5th-full-meeting#programme

³ Available at https://sifocc.org/sifocc_documents/report-on-the-4th-full-sifocc-meeting/

* Available at https://sifocc.org/sifocc_documents/the-role-of-commercial-courts-in-the-management-of-complex-disputes/

New Salary Requirements for Skilled Worker Visas: How to Prepare Your Business

In 2024, the UK government is implementing significant changes to the salary thresholds for skilled worker visas, increasing the earning threshold by nearly 50%. This change poses challenges for businesses that rely on foreign talent to address domestic labor shortages.

New Salary Threshold:

The salary requirement for skilled worker visas will rise from £26,200 to £38,700 starting in spring 2024. This substantial increase aims to reduce the number of skilled worker visa applications and address concerns over immigration levels.

Impact on Businesses:

  • Talent Acquisition: The new salary requirements may make it more challenging to attract and retain skilled foreign workers, especially in industries where domestic labor shortages are prevalent.
  • Increased Costs: The higher salary requirements will lead to increased labor costs, impacting budgets and financial planning.
  • Operational Adjustments: Companies may need to reassess their staffing strategies and explore alternative solutions to meet their talent needs.

Preparation Strategies:

To prepare for these changes, businesses should:

  • Review Compensation Packages: Ensure that current and prospective employees meet the new salary thresholds to maintain eligibility for skilled worker visas. For more information on how to structure competitive and compliant compensation packages, visit GSC Solicitors’ Employment Law Services.
  • Budget Adjustments: Allocate additional funds to cover the increased labor costs associated with the higher salary requirements.
  • Explore Alternative Talent Pools: Consider alternative sources of talent, such as domestic workers or other visa categories, to mitigate the impact of the new regulations.

By proactively addressing these changes, businesses can better navigate the evolving immigration landscape and continue to attract the talent necessary for their growth and success. For assistance with employment share initiatives, compensation packages, and other employment law services, GSC Solicitors offers comprehensive support tailored to your business needs. Learn more about our offerings here.

The Rise of Fintech: Legal Considerations for Startups and Investors

An overview of the legal landscape for fintech startups and the considerations for investors

The financial sector is witnessing a transformative wave driven by the rapid growth of fintech, which merges technology with financial services to enhance or automate financial processes. For startups venturing into this field and the investors backing them, understanding the legal landscape is crucial to navigate the complexities and opportunities effectively. Fintech is a general term which can apply across many sectors including online payment services, peer-to-peer lending, e-money, robo-investment advice, AI, blockchain and crypto assets. The UK Government recognises that fintech is an important sector for the economy  and actively implements measures to encourage this sector while balancing consumer and wider stakeholder protection. Fintech has revolutionised the way that financial services are offered compared to traditional methods – such as banks – including cheaper and innovative business models, new products and services and easier payments. This blog overviews some key legal considerations for fintech startups and their investors in the UK.

Regulatory Compliance

One of the primary legal challenges facing fintech startups revolves around regulatory compliance. Financial services are among the most heavily regulated sectors, with regulations varying significantly across jurisdictions. Fintech organisations must navigate a complex framework of laws designed to ensure consumer protection, data security, and financial stability.

Key areas to consider include:

Regulatory oversight. In the UK much of the regulation is carried out by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). As well as being regulators, they have an Innovation Hub to support innovator businesses in the financial sector and also offer a regulatory sandbox to assist testing for startups and new products.

Anti-money laundering (AML) laws require fintech companies offering banking, payments, or investment services to implement robust systems to prevent money laundering.

Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements are related to AML and critical for verifying customers’ identities to help prevent fraud. New technologies have been developed to assist in meeting these regulatory obligations and customers are increasingly seeing this in practice (for example verifying identities via uploading a short video); this is sometimes referred to as ‘regtech’.

Data protection regulations, these vary widely from jurisdiction to jurisdiction and in the UK  it primarily the Data Protection Act 2018 which imposes strict rules on data handling and privacy. When cross border data transfers take place or data is processed for individuals overseas, laws of other countries are likely to be relevant.

Consumer Protection laws – the UK has detailed legislation relating to consumer protection and this applies to fintech businesses. Often there will also be specific regulatory areas that need to be dealt with such as provision of information about charges and having proper complaints procedures in place.

Multiple Jurisdictions  – because of the often global nature of fintech, the legal position in other countries will often need to be considered.

Ongoing Review –  laws are changing all the time so it os essential to keep compliance under continual review.

Intellectual Property Protection

Innovative technology is at the heart of any fintech venture, making intellectual property (IP) a valuable asset that needs protection. Companies should look to secure their IP rights – properly protected IP can increase valuation which is crucial for attracting investment.

IP Strategies include:

Patenting innovative technologies, where patent protection is available .

Obtaining trade marks for names and brand elements to protect brand identity. Often this can be very important is differentiating similar products and services from each other. Being first to market is not always a guarantee of success; sometimes it is brand identity that is more important. International treaties such as the Madrid Protocol can assist with global trade mark strategies.

IP law differs from country to country. For example, while patent protection may not be available in one territory, it may be available in another.

Financial Promotion and Advertising Law –offering financial products and services is usually subject to regulation under various laws and regulations.

 

Funding and Investment

Securing funding is usually a key phase for all startups. Legal considerations linked to fundraising activities can significantly influence the company’s structure and future operations. Investors will often undertake due diligence on a company’s compliance with laws and regulations.

Investors and startups should be aware of:

Investor agreements and articles of association: these will set out the rights and obligations of the various stakeholders.

Compliance with financial promotion law: compliance with laws around offering and promoting investments is essential.

 

Emerging Areas: Cryptocurrency and Blockchain

Fintech innovations like blockchain and cryptocurrencies bring additional layers of legal complexity. Regulatory frameworks in these areas are still evolving, and so the legal issues and compliance can be particularly challenging.

Legal aspects to consider:

Regulatory changes: keeping abreast of international and local regulatory developments that could impact business processes and compliance.

Smart contracts: Legal recognition and enforceability issues that may arise with blockchain implementations continue to be a developing area.

The fintech landscape presents exciting opportunities but also significant legal challenges that require careful navigation. For startups, a proactive approach to legal issues—from regulatory compliance and IP protection to data privacy and fundraising—can pave the way for a successful business. Investors will want to conduct careful legal due diligence before committing capital to ensure compliance and mitigate risks.

Fintech startups and investors should work closely with legal experts to tailor to protect their business, ensure compliance and position themselves in an advantageous position in a competitive market landscape.

Embracing the Significance of World Population Day

The combination of births, deaths, and net international migration increases the U.S. population by one person every 24.2 seconds. The projected world population on Jan. 1, 2024, is 8,019,876,189, an increase of 75,162,541 (0.95%) from New Year’s Day 2023.*

As our population expands, the world becomes more interconnected, with each individual’s actions influencing the global landscape. Human growth, akin to technological advancement, is a key factor in shaping the future global economy. However, it’s crucial to note that the overall global population is currently declining, a trend that could significantly impact the future global economy.

The issue is not whether or how the population is growing or declining; the major concern is whether we are ready to create a cleaner, safer, and better environment for future generations.

We live in a different era, but our forefathers must not have imagined the current global crisis.

Numerous reasons for this are due to the decline in the fertility rate, and they distinctly state that the increased cost of living and significant gains in life expectancy have been achieved in recent years.

International Migration is a much smaller component of population change than births or deaths. However, in some countries and areas, the impact of migration on population size is significant, namely in countries that send or receive large numbers of economic migrants and those affected by refugee flows. 

According to a study by the United Nations, on 15 November 2022, the world’s population reached 8 billion people, a milestone in human development that underscores the gravity of the global population issue. While it took the global population 12 years to grow from 7 to 8 billion, it will take approximately 15 years—until 2037—to reach 9 billion, a sign that the overall growth rate of the global population is slowing. Yet levels of fertility remain high in some countries. Countries with the highest fertility levels tend to have the lowest income per capita. Global population growth has, therefore, become increasingly concentrated among the world’s poorest countries, most of which are in sub-Saharan Africa.

Countries like India and China, with their large populations, rank as the most populated countries and contribute significantly as leading manufacturers worldwide, showcasing the influence of population on economic power.

However, the figures in Europe are shrinking, and several countries are expected to see their populations decline by more than 15 percent by 2050, including Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Republic of Moldova, Romania, Serbia, and Ukraine. Fertility in all European countries is now below the level required for total replacement of the population in the long run (around 2.1 children per woman). In the majority of cases, fertility has been below the replacement level for several decades.

A twist in the human race’s development is the fast growth of the African Continent. Over half of global population growth between now and 2050 is expected in Africa. Africa has the highest rate of population growth among significant areas.

Source: https://www.worldometers.info/world-population/

Source: https://www.un.org/en/

UK Immigration Law Changes 2024: Key Updates and Their Impact on Businesses

The UK government has introduced several significant changes to immigration laws in 2024, which will impact businesses that rely on foreign talent. Key updates include an increase in the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) from £624 to £1,035 per year, substantially raising the cost of securing visas for foreign workers. Additionally, fines for employing illegal workers will triple, with first offenses now attracting penalties of £45,000, and repeated breaches facing fines of up to £60,000.

Skilled Worker Visa Salary Requirements:

The salary threshold for skilled worker visas will increase from £26,200 to £38,700. This significant rise is intended to reduce the number of skilled worker visa applications and address concerns over immigration levels. However, it will also pose challenges for businesses that rely on overseas talent to address domestic labor shortages.

Impact on Businesses:

  • Increased Costs: The higher IHS and fines mean businesses will face increased costs when hiring foreign workers. This could impact budget allocations and financial planning.
  • Talent Acquisition Challenges: The increased salary requirements may make it more difficult for businesses to attract and retain skilled foreign talent, particularly in industries experiencing domestic labor shortages.
  • Compliance Pressures: Ensuring compliance with the new regulations will be critical to avoid hefty fines and legal complications. This will require rigorous internal audits and possibly consulting with immigration experts to navigate the complexities of the new laws.

Preparation Strategies:

To prepare for these changes, businesses should reassess their hiring practices and budget allocations for immigration-related expenses. Reviewing and adjusting compensation packages to meet the new salary thresholds will be essential. Additionally, exploring alternative talent pools, such as domestic workers or other visa categories, can help mitigate the impact of the new regulations.

Staying informed and proactive in adapting to these changes will be crucial for maintaining operational efficiency and compliance in 2024 and beyond.

Estate Planning: Why It’s Never Too Early to Start

For high-net-worth individuals, starting estate planning early is not just prudent—it’s essential. With considerable assets and complex family dynamics, ensuring your wealth is managed and distributed according to your wishes requires sophisticated strategies and legal expertise. Here’s why starting your estate planning early is critical and how GSC Solicitors can assist you.

The Foundations of Estate Planning

1. Comprehensive Wills

A will is fundamental, specifying how your estate is to be distributed. For affluent individuals, a will must address complex asset structures and potential international holdings. Key considerations include:

  • Appointing Executors: Selecting trusted individuals or professionals to manage your estate.
  • Beneficiary Designations: Clearly defining beneficiaries, including trusts for younger or vulnerable family members.
  • Guardianship: Nominate guardians for minor children, ensuring their well-being and financial security.

2. Advanced Trust Structures

Trusts offer unparalleled flexibility and control over your wealth, providing significant benefits:

  • Discretionary Trusts: Allow trustees to make decisions about distributions, adapting to beneficiaries’ changing circumstances.
  • Tax Efficiency: Strategically structured trusts can mitigate inheritance tax liabilities, preserving wealth for future generations.
  • Asset Protection: Shield assets from potential claims by creditors or through divorce settlements.

3. Estate Management and Business Succession

Managing a large estate involves strategic planning to ensure smooth transitions and continued growth:

  • Asset Inventory: Detailed documentation and regular updates of your asset portfolio.
  • Power of Attorney: Assigning trusted individuals to handle financial and healthcare decisions if you become incapacitated.
  • Business Succession Planning: Ensuring the continuity of family businesses through structured succession plans.

The Advantages of Early Estate Planning

1. Preserving Wealth Across Generations
Early planning allows for the implementation of sophisticated strategies to preserve and grow your estate, ensuring long-term financial security for your heirs.

2. Minimising Tax Liabilities
Proactive estate planning can significantly reduce your tax burden through the utilisation of trusts, charitable donations, and other tax-efficient structures.

3. Avoiding Family Disputes
A well-structured estate plan minimises the risk of conflicts among beneficiaries, ensuring your wishes are respected and reducing the emotional and financial strain on your family.

4. Ensuring Privacy
High-net-worth individuals often seek to maintain privacy concerning their financial affairs. Trusts and other private arrangements can keep estate matters out of the public domain.

How GSC Solicitors Can Help

GSC Solicitors specialises in providing bespoke estate planning services tailored to the needs of high-net-worth individuals. Our expertise includes:

1. Personalised Advice
We offer comprehensive, personalised advice, taking into account your unique financial situation, family dynamics, and long-term goals.

2. Expertise in Complex Estates
Our team is adept at handling large and complex estates, including international assets and intricate trust structures.

3. Tax Planning and Mitigation
We employ advanced tax planning strategies to minimise liabilities and preserve wealth across generations.

4. Ongoing Support and Review
Estate planning is not a one-time event. We provide ongoing support and regular reviews to ensure your estate plan remains aligned with your objectives and compliant with current laws.

Conclusion
For high-net-worth individuals, early and strategic estate planning is crucial for managing and protecting significant wealth. GSC Solicitors is dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of estate planning, ensuring that your legacy is preserved and your wishes are honoured. Contact us today for expert guidance tailored to your unique needs.

Welcome Shahrzad Atai as a Partner in the International Private Client Department

GSC Solicitors LLP Welcomes Shahrzad Atai as a Partner in the International Private Client Department

London, UK – May 22, 2024 – GSC Solicitors LLP is pleased to announce the appointment of Shahrzad Atai as a Partner in the esteemed Private Client Department. With a wealth of experience and an impressive portfolio, Atai joins the firm to strengthen further its capabilities in serving International High-Net-Worth clients.

Atai has extensive expertise in advising high-profile individuals and entities, particularly in the banking sector. Her nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding international wealth management, multi-jurisdictional assets and estate planning makes her an asset to the firm and its clientele.

“We are delighted to welcome Shahrzad Atai to our team,” said

Saleem Sheikh, Senior Partner of GSC Solicitors LLP. Her exceptional track record and deep understanding of the needs of International High-Net-Worth clients align perfectly with our commitment to delivering top-tier legal services.

Shahrzad’s joining marks an exciting chapter for our Private Client Department, and we are confident that her contributions will further elevate our capabilities.”

Atai’s appointment underscores GSC Solicitors LLP’s dedication to providing comprehensive and tailored legal solutions to its diverse client base. With her joining, the firm aims to expand its reach and deliver exceptional value to clients seeking sophisticated wealth management and estate planning counsel.

Before joining GSC Solicitors LLP, Atai held prominent positions where she successfully navigated intricate legal landscapes, earning recognition for her strategic insights and client-focused approach. Her appointment solidifies the firm’s position as a leading destination for bespoke legal services in London’s legal landscape.

“I am happy to rejoin GSC Solicitors LLP and contribute to their exceptional work,” said Mrs. Atai. “I look forward to collaborating with the talented team here and leveraging our collective expertise to deliver unparalleled service and results to our clients.”

Shahrzad Atai’s appointment signifies GSC Solicitors LLP’s ongoing commitment to attracting top-tier legal talent and furthering its reputation as a premier destination for legal services in the heart of London.

Spring Budget 2024: Highlights

On 7 March 2024, Jeremy Hunt, Chancellor of the Exchequer, delivered the Spring Budget 2024 setting out his plans to continue working to decrease inflation, grow the economy and ensure that the tax system in the country is fair, simple and rewards hard work as the United Kingdom is still facing the legacy of the COVID-19 pandemic, the energy price spike and the globally high inflation.

Below is a summary of the key announcements for the private client world.

 

Inheritance Tax (IHT)

  • From 1 April 2024, the IHT requirements for personal representatives (PRs) of estates who wish to obtain a ‘grant on credit’ from HMRC will be relaxed.

 

Capital Gains Tax (CGT) 

  • A change in CGT on residential property gains has been announced.
  • The rate of CGT on chargeable gains arising from the disposal of residential property will decrease from 28% to 24%.
  • The change will be applicable to the disposals on or after 6 April 2024.
  • The rate for basic rate taxpayers will stay at 18%.

 

Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) 

  • From 1 June 2024, the multiple dwellings relief will be abolished. The relief will still apply to any property transactions where contracts that were exchanged on or before 6 March 2024 regardless of the completion date.
  • The first-time buyers’ relief from SDLT in England will be extended for purchases taking place on or after 6 March 2024. Transitional rules may apply to transactions where the exchange of contracts takes place on or before 6 March 2024.

 

International Aspects 

‘Non-dom’ Regime

  • The remittance basis of taxation will be abolished. The country will switch to a residence-based regime.
  • This will be a major change for the individuals who are resident but not domiciled in the UK (‘non-doms’), and have foreign income and gains. These individuals will not pay UK tax on any foreign income and gains arising in their first 4 years of UK tax residence as long as they have not been resident in the UK for tax purposes for the last 10 years.
  • The new regime will come into effect on 6 April 2025 and will apply UK-wide.
  • Transitional arrangements will apply to the existing ‘non-doms’ claiming the remittance basis.

 

IHT Regime 

  • The IHT regime will be switched to a residence-based one replacing the current regime where IHT liability depends on domicile.
  • The consultation along with the draft legislation will be published later in the year.
  • No IHT changes that are supposed to take effect before 6 April 2025 have been announced.

The impact of these announcements will depend on individual circumstances. We suggest that if you have any questions or would any further advice GSC Solicitors would be delighted to be able to assist and suggest you contact James Cohen on 0207 822 2222. Or e-mail on [email protected]

 

Disclaimer: Rates are for guidance only. Whilst we take care to ensure the accuracy of this document, no responsibility for loss occasioned by any person acting or refraining from action as a result of this information can be accepted by the authors or fir

GSC Queensway Tristan Deal

GSC SOLICITORS ADVISES LONGSTANDING CLIENT QUEENSWAY ON TRISTAN CAPITAL PARTNERS £420M ACQUISITION OF POINT A HOTELS

City law firm GSC Solicitors LLP is delighted to announce that it advised longstanding client Queensway in the £420M acquisition of a majority holding in Raag Hotels Limited which owns Point A Hotels, by Tristan Capital Partners’ European Property Investors Special Opportunities 6 (EPISO 6) Fund. Queensway will remain a minority partner but with management and development responsibility.

The Point A portfolio comprises 1,520 rooms in 10 hotels, with 80% of its value in London and in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Dublin. Under the new partnership, Queensway will co-invest and act as hotel operator, asset manager and development partner for future sites.

Commenting on the transaction, Lead corporate partner Clive Halperin/Peter Belcher, Head of GSC’s Hotel & Leisure team said: “We were delighted to assist our longstanding client Queensway in respect of this complex matter. Under Queensway’s management, the Point A Hotels brand has developed a high-quality product at great value. We look forward to assisting our client further with its expansion plans in the future.”

Naushad Jivraj, CEO, Queensway said:
“GSC Solicitors has acted for Raag Hotels since its inception in relation to all seven London properties. We, at Queensway, are pleased to have been supported by them to form this new partnership with Tristan Capital Partners. We are excited by the next chapter of the Point A Hotels story as we, together with Tristan, continue to develop our product, brand and service to the ever-evolving needs of our guests.”

The Tristan EPISO 6 fund was advised by BCLP, Maples, Brodies, PWC, Savills, Artelia and Longevity.
Raag Hotels was advised by CBRE, Eastdil, Derek Gammage, DLA Piper, BDO and Voisin Law.
Queensway was advised by GSC Solicitors.

-ENDS-

For further information please contact Paul Jaffa at Myddleton Communications, London on +44 7957 433312 or [email protected].

Notes for editors
About GSC Solicitors LLP
GSC Solicitors LLP is a Legal 500 recommended commercial law firm based in the City of London. With a client base of innovators and thought leaders, home grown entrepreneurs, global brands and ultra-high-net worth individuals, the firm’s lawyers provide a wide range of services, from wealth management to corporate commercial, real estate, intellectual property and immigration to private client and trusts. The firm has a global portfolio, undertaking work in Asia, the Middle East, Africa and the Far East and in celebrating its 50th Anniversary in 2022.

About Queensway
Queensway is a family-owned business that acquires, develops and operates a broad portfolio of real estate across the hospitality sector.
Founded in 1973, Queensway exists to bring teams together to create meaningful and memorable hospitality experiences for customers. The portfolio comprises a residential property business, Point A Hotels, Montagu Place Hotel, Sloane Place Hotel, The Sloane Club, ibis Styles Hotel Nairobi, sole franchisee for KFC in Austria and Slovakia and a franchise partnership with Starbucks in the UK. The Queensway organisation is made up of over 800 individuals across 50 locations in 5 countries, united by a shared DNA and core values.
For more information on Queensway, please visit www.queensway.com

About Point A Hotels
Small Hotels. Big Heart.
Point A Hotels believes a hotel should never just be a room. Across its 10 properties in central London, Glasgow, Edinburgh and Dublin, the brand aims to deliver heartfelt hospitality to everyone, no matter their budget. They define and customise their hotel offering to provide the best possible experience and value to their guests through thoughtful design, sincere service and active contributions to the local communities in which they operate.
Find out more: www.PointAHotels.com

Another successful event – celebration of International Women’s Day

Last week GSC Solicitors hosted hand-picked female guests for a networking evening with inspirational women while celebrating IWD and having a sushi-making master class.

Seena Williams of GSC’s Real Estate team gave a small speech on buying leasehold and ground rent and Private Client‘s Sana Sheikh gave practical tips on how to safeguard assets and pass down wealth to the next generation.

A short video from the event can be viewed here:

For further information on property-related issues or wealth/assets/wills, please do not hesitate to contact us on 0207 822 2222.