In this episode, we delve into the rapidly evolving role of artificial intelligence in the legal field. As AI tools become increasingly integrated into legal practices, they bring both groundbreaking efficiencies and unexpected hurdles. Join us as we explore the dual-edged nature of AI: its potential to revolutionize legal tasks and the pitfalls that could lead to costly mistakes. Discover how legal professionals can adeptly navigate this new landscape, leveraging AI's strengths while...

Little KEMPies, an initiative by HK-based law firm M.B. KEMP LLP, offers courses for kids interested in law careers. Currently, they run a Mini Law Degree programme for bright minds aged 12-15. Led by experienced M.B. Kemp LLP lead partner Yeelign Wan, the 9-week course covers key subjects like contract law, tort law, and criminal law, along with soft skills like critical thinking and public speaking. In this episode, we spoke with Yeeling to find out more this course. Our Guest Yeeling...

In this episode, we shed light on the pivotal Department Order No. 238-23, a comprehensive directive detailing regulations for enforcing labor standards as outlined in Article 128 of the Labour Code of the Philippines and enhanced by the provisions of Republic Act No. 11058. This order represents a significant step forward in fortifying labor rights and ensuring workplace safety and health standards across the nation. Understanding its nuances is crucial for both employers and employees, as...

In the battle against climate change, litigation has emerged as a potent tool, compelling governments and corporations to confront their environmental responsibilities head-on. "Why Climate Change Litigation Matters?" explores the rising trend of legal actions being taken to address the urgent crisis of our warming planet.  Our Host Ajay Shamdasani Ajay is a veteran writer, editor and researcher based in Hong Kong. He holds an AB in history and government from Ripon College, JD and MIPCT...

Renewable energy is reshaping the global energy landscape, and Vietnam is no exception. With its significant strides in wind and solar power investment, Vietnam is emerging as a compelling case study in the shift towards sustainable energy production. Stakeholders in international energy markets, project financing, or environmental legislation will find the burgeoning Vietnamese renewable energy sector both intriguing and rich with opportunity. This episode looks at the complexities and...

In this episode, we explore how law firms can benefit significantly from integrating fixed-fee arrangements into their practice. Whether you're an independent attorney or part of a larger firm, this model promises transparency, predictability, and a renewed focus on efficiency—not to mention the strategic leverage it provides in a competitive market. Our Host Ajay Shamdasani Ajay is a veteran writer, editor and researcher based in Hong Kong. He holds an AB in history and government from...

In this episode, we delve into the crucial information about obtaining the Long-Term Resident Visa in Thailand. From understanding the eligibility criteria to navigating the application process, we aim to equip you with the essential knowledge to turn your plans with Thailand into a reality. Whether you are a retiree seeking tranquility amidst breathtaking landscapes, a digital nomad in pursuit of high-speed internet on stunning shores, or an investor exploring a world of vibrant...

It is essential to foster positive relationships with your local workforce and stay compliant with state regulations. One way to do both is through employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) – an incentive that can potentially have tremendous benefits for corporations operating within Vietnam. In this episode, we explore ESOPs specifically in the context of Vietnam and explain their advantages in maintaining strong corporate relations while carving out financial gains. Our Guests Sesto...

Vietnam is becoming an increasingly attractive proposition for doing business. Not only is it a flourishing and vibrant economy, but the labour force also offers some unique advantages for those wishing to invest in Vietnam's future. For businesses interested in keeping abreast of the latest developments in this dynamic labour and employment landscape, it pays to stay informed as laws and guidelines are ever-evolving in this country. In this podcast, we explore how businesses can navigate...

Data protection is a hot topic in many countries, and it's especially important for businesses to be aware of current laws when it comes to protecting their customers' information. Nowhere is this truer than in Vietnam, where the recent implementation of Decree 13 has spurred an unprecedented level of regulation related to data collection and storage. This new law intends to protect user privacy while providing guidance on how companies should safely manage data. This episode will provide an...

As the legal industry in Asia explodes with commercial growth opportunities, so too does the demand for innovative financing solutions to help lawyers and their clients better manage litigation risk. In particular, one increasingly popular form of alternative finance – litigation funding – has been gaining traction in numerous countries across the continent, as savvy legal professionals are turning to this novel approach to improve their competitive edge. By providing access to capital...

The world of third-party funding is growing in Asia, and it could have a profound effect on the legal marketplace. Historically undervalued and overlooked, this type of funding can be used to provide lawyers with access to resources that might otherwise be out of reach. With the right approach, funding may be available for matters ranging from small individual disputes to large-scale corporate actions. This episode will explore the ins-and-outs and opportunities presented by Third Party...

The renewable energy market in the Philippines is a rapidly growing sector, with tremendous potential for growth and development. As part of this expansion, it is essential to stay informed on the legal and regulatory dynamics that come along with investing in renewables. From new standards coming into effect to policy updates from national authorities, understanding these key aspects of working in the Filipino renewable industry can open up doors for success across sectors. In this episode,...

Investing in sustainable energy sources is becoming increasingly popular all around the world as businesses and individuals alike begin to recognize the importance of reducing their carbon footprints. The renewable energy market has also been booming in some countries, including the Philippines. Foreign investors have recently begun to take advantage of this investment opportunity; however, it pays for potential investors to be well-informed before taking that plunge into a new industry. This...

As more countries in the world turn towards renewable energy sources to reduce their dependency on traditional, non-renewable resources, the Philippines' focus on investing in renewables has become increasingly prominent. Despite permitting challenges and an expensive up-front cost for developers, the renewable energy market in the Philippines is diversifying rapidly as more projects come online across different regions of the country. In this episode, we'll provide a comprehensive overview...

For entrepreneurs and investors looking for a place to establish their businesses, Indonesia offers an intriguing range of incentives. From infrastructure projects that can help create a dynamic local workforce to financial advantages that boost profit margins, this Southeast Asian nation is a prime spot for investment opportunities. In this episode, we take a closer look at the many benefits of investing in Indonesia - from the types of investments needed and what they can bring you to tax...

Indonesia is a country filled with potential, and its commercial real estate market is no exception. With strong economic growth and an increasing number of international investors entering the market, opportunities abound for those looking to capitalize on the booming demand for quality office spaces in some of Indonesia's largest urban centers. In this blog post, we will explore how these changes have impacted the Indonesian real estate industry and provide an overview of some of the key...

Are you a foreign investor looking to make an impact in Indonesia? Investing international capital in the country can be extremely rewarding, but understanding its rules and requiring restrictions is essential. This episode will provide an overview of the regulations facing foreign investment in Indonesia, so that investors can ensure their operations are compliant with local laws. Whether you're interested in establishing a new business or branching out into existing sectors, this post has...

Indonesia has seen impressive growth in its economy over the last decade, driven mainly by Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). FDI plays a significant role in opening up markets and providing needed capital for Indonesian businesses. For companies looking to invest in Indonesia, understanding the current landscape is essential for success. In this episode post, we will explore the key drivers of FDI activity in Indonesia and how investors can capitalize on these trends to maximize their...

Understanding the role of Alternative Dispute Resolution is key to success when investing in international markets. ADR helps investors maintain their competitive edge while mitigating risk through effective dispute resolution between foreign companies and local partners or government officials then providing an out-of-court remedy for disputes beyond arbitration or litigation. In this espisode, we will discuss how ADR plays an important role in ensuring successful investments with Philippine...

Today, arbitration has become a prominent form of alternative dispute resolution worldwide due to the increased prevalence and accessibility of digital tools that make it easier than ever before for parties to resolve disputes out-of-court through a reliable, cost-efficient process. This episode will explore how technology is revolutionising arbitration in the Philippines – from virtual meetings to online filing systems – as well as discuss how these changes are impacting businesses and...

As businesses become more geographically dispersed, international arbitration has become an economically viable alternative to resolving cross-border disputes. International arbitration awards are legally binding and enforceable in other jurisdictions as prescribed by international conventions and Philippine law. With this recognition of the efficacy of international arbitration, parties involved in disputes must ensure that their award is properly enforced within the territorial limits of...

Arbitration is a popular alternative to litigation in the Philippines. The Republic of the Philippines has a strong and categorical government policy of promoting alternative modes of dispute resolution, including arbitration. There is as yet no specialist arbitration court in the Philippines; however, arbitration-related proceedings are ordinarily assigned to trial courts. International and domestic commercial arbitrations in the Philippines are primarily governed by Republic Act (RA) No....

As M&A activity continues to surge across many sectors, so too have the disputes resulting from post-transaction troubles. These issues often arise when an acquirer and target negotiate earnout clauses as a contingent payment in order to bridge any gaps between the value they each ascribe to the deal’s enterprise value. Although these terms are negotiated prior to transaction closure, problems can still occur following completion that negatively affect the financial performance of both...