Multinational law firm Hatstone is to partner with Tully Rinckey (Ireland) LLP to establish a new European hub in Ireland.

The move is further evidence of Ireland’s growing appeal to international law firms, trust companies and fund providers, post-Brexit. 

According to EY’s March 2021 Financial Services Brexit Tracker, Dublin is the most popular destination for UK financial services firms relocating post-Brexit, with a total of 36 firms saying they have confirmed or are considering relocation to the city, including asset managers, insurers, investment banks and lenders that are all likely to shift jobs to the Republic. 

Managing partner Grainne Loughnane will lead Hatstone’s new Dublin office, joined by fellow partners Setanta Landers and Julie O’Sullivan, as well as a team of associates and staff.

Hatstone group partner Bella Ward said: “We are thrilled to be opening in Dublin and to be joined by Grainne, Setanta, Julie and the team. 

“More and more of our clients have been asking us to bring our personalised and partner-led service to Ireland as they look to invest in or through Ireland, or to build their base In the European Union.”

She added: “We pride ourselves on recognising and responding to our clients’ needs.  And they have told us that they need us to help them grow in Ireland. 

“Today’s announcement is an important step for our firm in continuing to meet their needs.”

The Dublin team will join Hatstone’s 51 staff specialising in finance, corporate and commercial law across its offices in Jersey, London, the British Virgin Islands, Panama, and South Africa.

Vital

The move completes “a vital piece of the firm’s European growth strategy”, Hatstone has said. 

Hatstone Ireland managing partner Grainne Loughnane said: “Our team in Dublin has always strived to give our clients a first-class, personalised service from senior professionals. 

“Becoming part of the Hatstone Group will allow us to offer this across a global international network, as well as to strengthen our position as a leading adviser in the Irish market. 

“I have worked alongside members of the Hatstone team for many years.  As a result of our strong relationship and shared values, Hatstone is a natural fit for us.”

The new set-up will offer expertise across the full spectrum of finance and corporate transactions, as well as offshore investment and real estate transactions, including inbound investment into social housing. 

New asset class

Grainne added: “Social housing is a relatively new asset class for investors in Ireland, but it is well supported by recent legal reforms, strong government support and an attractive policy framework. 

“We’re seeing a lot of interest in this sector from investors seeking to diversify away from more mature markets for these assets in the UK and Europe.”