Top 10 Powerhouse Equity Lawyers Dominating Australia’s Capital Markets in 2023

Given the complexity and constant evolution of Capital Markets and Equity law in Australia, the need for seasoned and insightful legal practitioners in this field is paramount. The landscape of Equity Capital Markets (ECM) law is populated with brilliant legal minds who guide firms, underwriters, and managers through the maze with exceptional juridical acumen. This article highlights some of these remarkable lawyers who are making a significant impact in Capital Markets: Equity in Australia.

These legal professionals possess unequalled expertise in an array of ECM matters, including Initial Public Offerings (IPOs), capital raisings, security purchase plans, issuance and hybrid securities matters, among others. Their work has helped to shape the Australian capital markets, providing guidance and proving instrumental in the development and completion of intricate capital market transactions.

Let’s dive into the profiles of these brilliant legal minds, their firms, and what makes them stand out in their specialised field. The selection is based on their knowledge, experience, and their innovative approach to capital market transactions.

Robert Pick

Currently affiliated with Allens, Robert Pick advises clients on a myriad of ECM matters. He brings his expertise to bear in capital raisings, issuance, SPPs and hybrid securities matters, demonstrating dedication and well-rounded knowledge in Capital Markets: Equity.

Peter Cook

Peter Cook heads the equity capital markets team at Gilbert + Tobin. His deep reservoir of knowledge on ECM matters cannot be overstated. He frequently acts for underwriters and lead managers on significant IPOs, highlighting his reputation as a top practitioner.

Brendan Groves

Brendan Groves operates from Clayton Utz. As an experienced ECM specialist, he collaborates with underwriters and corporates regarding IPOs and listings on the ASX. With his expertise also covering capital raisings and venture funding, Groves continues to deliver exceptional legal services.

Meredith Campion

Meredith Campion, an experienced figure in the ECM legal market, underscores her legal knowledge by acting on equity transactions for clients in the natural resources sector. As a partner in Allen & Overy LLP, she brings unrivalled experience to the fore, even though her firm does not maintain an active-online presence.

Philippa Stone

Herbert Smith Freehills‘ Philippa Stone stands as dominantly reputed for her versatility in ECM matters. She has a remarkable reputation as the go-to lawyer for issuers, underwriters, and lead managers on major IPOs and secondary capital raising.

Anthony Rumboll

Taking the helm of the ECM department in Sydney is Anthony Rumboll, a luminary for the Baker McKenzie. He holds extensive experience handling monumental IPOs, placements, and other capital raisings.

Philip Hart

Philip Hart, also from Herbert Smith Freehills, advises issuers, joint lead managers, and underwriters on a wide range of IPOs, offerings and raisings, making him standout in the industry.

Rachael Bassil

Playing an active role in ECM at Gilbert + Tobin is Rachael Bassil. She frequently acts for lead managers on IPOs and equity issuances, assisting them through the complex process.

Michael Ziegelaar

Michael Ziegelaar is another vital asset from Herbert Smith Freehills. He actively advises corporates on institutional placements, security purchase plans and IPOs, providing noteworthy contributions to Capital Markets: Equity in Australia.

Stuart Byrne

At Clayton Utz, Stuart Byrne leads the capital markets group. His recognition in the industry is well-cemented, frequently acting for clients on significant IPOs and capital raisings. His expansive clientele includes major corporates and banks, further attesting to his proficiency.