Protecting the Rights of Minority Shareholders in Privately-Owned Japanese Companies

Stephen is a leader of our Cross-Border Transactions Group. Stephen was previously associated with top-tier U.S. international law firms for 12 years, and has experience running cross-border transactions on the ground in the United States, Japan, Singapore, India, Indonesia, and Thailand. Stephen has represented U.S. and non-U.S. buyers and sellers in cross-border corporate transactions in various industries and deal structures, including stock and asset acquisitions, mergers, private equity and venture capital investments, joint ventures and strategic alliances. 
 
 Since joining Nishimura & Asahi in 2004, Stephen has represented numerous multi-national clients in connection with their investments into Japan and their ongoing general commercial transactions (including franchising, licensing, employment, corporate governance and commercial real estate leasing matters). Stephen also has extensive experience leading and documenting Japanese and cross-border due diligence exercises with respect to various industries, and representing Japanese clients in connection with their multi-jurisdiction corporate acquisitions. Stephen is frequently praised by clients for providing cutting edge practical solutions.
 
 Stephen also has represented U.S. issuers in the United States, foreign private issuers from numerous jurisdictions in Asia and global investment banks in connection with their capital markets transactions, including registered initial and follow-on public offerings in the United States, Rule 144A/Regulation S equity and debt offerings, block trades, dual listings and privatizations, and also assessing whether exemptions exist to the application of U.S. securities laws to overseas business transactions.
 
 Stephen writes and lectures widely on his legal practice specialties.

Keitaro deals with various cross-border M&A transactions, both inbound and outbound, backed by his experience working in U.S. and Australian law firms. He has an extensive track record of success in handling private equity deals, not only on acquisitions but also on exits. Further, his practice includes M&A generally, such as business integrations, carve-outs, and JV formation. Clients value his outstanding analysis, communication, and presentation skills beyond just language (both Japanese and English), which he leverages for successful discussions and negotiations with clients, advisors, and counterparties.