Keystone has expanded its London-based financial services and investment funds practice with the appointment of specialist lawyers Simon Sutcliffe and George Malster.

With extensive experience between them the pair will advise fund houses, banks and other financial institutions on the establishment and ongoing regulatory requirements of a range of financial products. Working across a range of jurisdictions, asset classes and fund structures, their practice areas include: FCA investigations; restructurings; UCITS; AIFs; funds of funds; custody arrangements; and derivative instruments. With their asset management and structured finance backgrounds the two will focus on developing Keystone’s existing financial services practice alongside existing experts Meera Shah and Tony Watts.

Over the course of the last decade, Simon and George have advised financial institutions both as private practice and in-house counsel. Their clients have included the Legg Mason Group, Blackrock, RBS, Macquarie Bank, and BlueBay Asset Management.

Keystone’s Managing Partner and Founder James Knight said:

“These hires form a key part of our strategy to add further strength to our financial services and, more importantly, funds offering. The arrival of Simon and George is a real reflection of our dedication to providing clients with only the highest quality of service. Both are talented funds lawyers who will form valuable additions to the team.”

George added:

“I am delighted to be joining the Keystone team here in London. Over the last ten years of my career I have seen many progressive changes in how legal services are delivered to clients. As an innovator in our industry Keystone is at the forefront of this evolution and I look forward to advising my clients as part of this exciting law firm.”

Simon continued:

“Financial Services Clients operate in an ever-more complex and competitive environment. The costs of compliance increase year on year and they need their lawyers to innovate and adapt to help reduce this financial burden. Keystone is a firm that is looking forward and making sure its lawyers can meet these demands.”

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