The Cayman Islands law firm of Conyers Dill & Pearman has secured approval for the formation and licensing of a new São Paulo (Brazil) office, making it the only offshore firm to have an office in Brazil.
The Brazil market will add to the firm’s International presence that includes Anguilla, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Mauritius, Brazil and Moscow.
The Brazilian practice will focus on investment funds, public company listings, initial public offerings and holding company incorporations. These services will provide an array of clients with direct access to the key jurisdictions of the Cayman Islands, British Virgin Islands, Bermuda and Mauritius.
Two partners currently staff the firm’s Brazilian practice. Alan Dickson, who relocated from Conyers’ Corporate Department in Bermuda, and Benjamin Dyer who migrated from the firm’s Hong Kong office.
The expansion to Brazil follows Conyers opening in Russia, where they are again recognised as the only offshore firm to have an office in Russia with the launch of its Moscow office.
According to Mr Dickson, “The Cayman Islands are largely seen as the domicile of choice among Latin American companies. By establishing a presence in Brazil, Conyers will open up the channel for Latin American business flowing into Cayman.”
He said that regular and personal contact with clients would not only enhance understanding of their business goals and objectives, but also provide them with a unique opportunity “to gain an intricate knowledge of the local economy, its challenges and opportunities.”
The firm currently has offices within 11 countries. Mr Dickson said the opening of the São Paulo office is congruent with the firm’s “global strategy of systematically positioning ourselves in the emerging economic markets.”