In this session we will explore the standards and practical examples of dos and don’ts in international maritime arbitration with a focus on conflicts of interest in maritime arbitration following recent international decisions.

While law firm partners have typically enjoyed a high degree of autonomy and independence, during these times of uncertainty (and arguably in any event) the need for a coordinated approach to strategy and performance is without doubt.

Even the simplest planning and coordination amongst partners can be difficult. Many will focus on short-term objectives neglecting the longer-term investment required in their people and client relations. Typical excuses include a “lack of time” and the need to focus on daily deadlines. These are excuses!

During this interactive and highly practical session we will be reviewing the latest approaches to partner performance, sharing our experiences as to why this is so challenging within law firms and hearing success stories from firms who are doing this well. How can law firm leaders ensure that their partners are committed and accountable for their goals? How to ensure clarity over the expectations of partners with a clear appraisal and reward process? Is aligning partner objectives with financial reward the magic solution or are there deeper challenges involved? How can rewards drive collaboration?

The pandemic had a very different effect over different sectors of the economy. Private equity, venture capital and M&A activity remained strong in Latin America throughout the pandemic, but some economic sectors received significantly more investments than others, namely digital and online technology companies. On the post-pandemic environment, we expect to see M&A activity on all fronts, including a continuation of investments in technology companies, a return of investments in sectors that were dormant, distressed M&A on sectors badly affected by the crisis and post-IPO consolidation of various sectors. A panel of private equity firms, venture capitalists, private equity lawyers and investment bankers will discuss the challenges and opportunities that these type of investments bring, the hottest sectors, trends, similitudes and differences from pre-Covid PE and VC investments, how to navigate perceived increased political risk, among other topics.

This session will describe which are the main current threats to biodiversity and the connection between the need to stop it and the development of new products and services to consumers, analysing the shifting of paradigms on economy, with an overview of the key proposals of circular economy, blue economy and collaborative economies. Speakers will also address the law´s role is promoting or adjusting to these trends and preventing further collapse.

The idea that central banks should introduce digital versions of physical cash is fast gaining traction. Asia is today leading the way for the issuance of CBDCs but what are the ramifications for payments, monetary policy and financial stability and what will the future of money as we know it be?

The directive seeks to implement minimum standards and harmonize preventative restructuring frameworks within the European Union.  This session will address whether the culture of anticipation and prevention of insolvency has been effectively  reinforced. Have the EU-countries’ national insolvency laws been rebalanced in favour of creditors? US law perspective on the directive.

An open meeting of the Mediation Committee held to discuss matters of interest and future activities.

An open meeting of the Insurance Committee held to discuss matters of interest and future activities.

An open meeting of the Closely Held and Growing Business Enterprises Committee held to discuss matters of interest and future activities.

An open meeting of the International Trade and Customs Law Committee held to discuss matters of interest and future activities.