Mr. Grams handles foreign direct investment, cross-border mergers and acquisitions, private equity and commercial matters in Greater China, and has been instrumental in establishing more than 200 corporate operations in the country.
With a background in venture capital and private equity financing, his practice is focused on cross-border investments, and mergers and acquisitions in an array of sectors. He is also extensively involved in counselling clients on investment strategies and structures, including advising strategic and financial investors in connection with China-related public and private capital raisings, disposals, restructurings, joint ventures as well on ancillary issues, which routinely arise in China-related transactions, such as tax, PRC distribution arrangements, technology transfers and employment.
He has a broad range of experience handling foreign direct investment projects, including start-up businesses, reorganisations/acquisitions of existing business operations, private equity-funded acquisitions, investments and exits including IPOs.
Recent transactions on which he has advised include acting for aerospace manufacturers, medical technology and pharmaceutical companies entering the China market.
Mr. Grams received a B.A. in Canada before relocating to Hong Kong in 1987. After graduating with First Class Honors in law (LLB) from the University of Hong Kong and being admitted to practice in Hong Kong, Mr. Grams worked for several leading international law firms in Hong Kong, Beijing and Guangzhou, where he advised both local and international clients on overseas listings, cross-border investments and M&A projects in Hong Kong and China.
He is admitted to practice in Hong Kong and England and speaks English and Mandarin Chinese. He is originally from near Calgary, Canada.
Publications
"Introduction of the UK Bribery Act," cover story in June 2011 issue of Financier Worldwide, (interviewed by Matt Atkins).
"Foreigners Caught by China’s Social Security Laws," June 2011, Troutman Sanders China Alert.
"The UK Bribery Act – Implications for Multinational Companies," December 2010, Troutman Sanders Client Alert.
" Escalating Anti-Bribery Enforcement ," November 2010, Law360.
"UK enacts its own FCPA," September 2010, Troutman Sanders China Alert.
"Is your business ready for the new Bribery Act?" August 2010, Troutman Sanders Client Alert.
"What Next in China’s Indigenous Innovation Program?" July 2010, Troutman Sanders China Alert.
"Doing Business in China," July 2009, UK Trade & Investment Guide.
"New Anti-Monopoly Law Raises Host of Concerns for Companies Doing Business in China," September 2008 issue of China Legal published by Stephenson Harwood.
"Win-Win? Joint ventures may be on the verge of a comeback," cover story in June 2008 issue of EuroBiz, (interviewed by James Roy).
"The New PRC Labour Contract Law," December 2007 issue of China Legal published by Stephenson Harwood.
"What you should know and what you should do," November 2008 issue of China-Britain Business Review (UK).
"China FDI - Staying Ahead of the Curve," November 2006 issue of Asian Legal Business.
"Waving a Red Flag for the Bulls: Retailing & Wholesaling in China," June 2004 issue of Tradelink magazine (Hong Kong).
"Trading Direct - Hong Kong," Global Business Online Know-how, October 2002, Practical Law Company (PLC).
"Doing Business in Hong Kong," Lovells client brochure, September 2002.
"Taking Security in the PRC," Lovells client brochure, December 2001.
"Mergers & Acquisitions in the PRC: Updating the Rules of Engagement," Special Feature in July/August 2001 issue of Asian Legal Briefing.
"Get Ready for the PRC M&A Boom," June-July 2001 issues of Straits Lawyer.
"Get Ready for the PRC M&A Boom," June & July 2001 issues of Financial Post.
"Reciprocal Enforcement Update," Asian Legal Briefing, March 2000.