Tax issues on stake sales and investment into managers: structuring, pitfalls and steps to take now
About
Chris advises on high-stakes corporate and commercial disputes for international corporate clients, financial institutions, family offices and entrepreneurs, in the English Courts and international arbitration.
Chris’ practice covers all major areas of commercial law, including banking and finance, funds, insurance/reinsurance, shareholder disputes, technology, cryptocurrency, fraud and insolvency. Chris has a wealth of experience advising on post-M&A claims, directors’ duties, derivative actions and unfair prejudice petitions.
The majority of Chris’ work is cross-border. He has substantial experience with issues of jurisdiction and enforcement, including for and against SOEs, and in coordinating international litigation strategy working with leading law firms around the world. He has a particular interest in transatlantic disputes, having previously been seconded to a leading New York law firm.
His recent instructions have included disputes across a wide range of sectors, including financial services, private equity, hospitality, telecommunications, cryptocurrency, sport, commodities trading and construction.
Chris is a qualified solicitor-advocate. He is ranked as a Next Generation Partner in the Legal 500 2026, praised for having “the perfect combination of legal excellence, procedural nous and strategic skills" and "in the top echelon of Partners in commercial dispute resolution". He is also ranked by Chambers UK as Up and Coming and described as "a savvy, straight to the point, phenomenally bright guy."
Experience
- Representing PGA European Tour in securing the dismissal of high-profile disciplinary appeals by 12 pro golfers on the grounds of restraint of trade, breach of competition law, and procedural unfairness.
- Successfully defending 13 individual Bitcoin developers in a preliminary issue trial in several different claims relating to Dr Craig Wright and concerning the identity of (and Dr Wright’s claim to be) the pseudonymous inventor of Bitcoin, “Satoshi Nakamoto”.
- Acting for a fintech business in a speedy trial relating to the operation of a Material Adverse Effect clause as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic in a Share Purchase Agreement.
- Acting for a satellite communications firm in confidential arbitration proceedings regarding pricing under a long-term commercial contract.
- Acting for JD Williams in relation to a substantial commercial dispute with an insurer regarding the allocation of liabilities in respect of a substantial consumer insurance redress scheme.
- Advising a UHNW individual in relation to issues of state immunity arising under the State Immunity Act 1978.
- Acting for the founder of a cryptocurrency business in relation to disputes concerning the ownership and ongoing governance of the business venture.