Leading U.S. capital markets lawyer Michael Kim joins A&O Shearman as a partner in New York

A&O Shearman welcomes Michael Kim, a leading figure in the New York capital markets community, as a partner in its U.S. Capital Markets practice in New York. Michael joins the firm from Morgan Stanley, where he was most recently the head of Americas Capital Markets Legal, covering the full spectrum of transactions across the capital structure, ranging from U.S. IPOs and direct listings, offerings of equity and equity-linked securities, and private placements, as well as high yield and investment grade debt offerings. Earlier in his career, Michael was a lawyer at Davis Polk.

“We are delighted that Michael has decided to join our U.S. capital markets team. Growth in this area is a key strategic priority and Michael is an important addition,” said Adam Hakki, co-chair of the firm’s global Executive Committee and Board, and U.S. chair. “Michael is a truly leading U.S. capital markets practitioner with uniquely deep experience and outstanding reputation in the market from his work at Morgan Stanley.”

Ilir Mujalovic, global co-head of the firm’s U.S. Capital Markets and Global ECM practice, added: “Over the years, Michael has been at the forefront of a number of the most significant and innovative U.S. equity capital markets transactions of the time, and his extensive legal expertise and market knowledge will enhance not only our U.S. team but also our broader global capital markets platform.”

Commenting on his appointment, Michael said: “I am honored to join the exceptional team at A&O Shearman, many of whom in the group I have known for a long time and am excited to collaborate with the firm’s lawyers globally. Navigating the current market and regulatory environment presents opportunities to deliver insightful advice and make differentiated contributions, and I look forward to taking on those opportunities and expanding the firm’s leading U.S. Capital Markets practice.”

With this hire, A&O Shearman has expanded core practice areas with 16 partner hires since the completion of the A&O Shearman merger on May 1, 2024.