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James Yao

Partner

Offices

Hong Kong SAR

James specialises in a wide range of structured products including repackagings, structured notes, equity margin financing (both loan and derivative structures) and asset-backed securities. 

James also advises on OTC derivatives across all asset classes including interest, FX, equity, credit and commodity as well as OTC derivative regulatory matters across a number of jurisdictions including Hong Kong.

James’s clients include international, regional and PRC banks, securities firms and other financial institutions. He has particular experience in managing complex structured product transactions for such clients in the APAC market. James also regularly presents at industry conference and events, including ISDA.
 

Recognition

James has a keen understanding of the business landscape and good insights into industry trends and regulatory changes.
Chambers Greater China, 2024
James has a very good understanding of the commercial drivers behind the transactions and is able to provide high-quality advice for complex cross-border transactions. We always value his input and thoughts when structuring a transaction. James is also very good at providing pragmatic advice to meet commercial needs. He's very responsive.
Chambers Greater China, 2023

Awards

  • Structured Finance & Securitisation Rising Star, IFLR Rising Stars Awards Asia-Pacific, 2022
  • Up-and-Coming, Chambers Greater China Capital Markets: Derivatives & Structured Products (International Firms), 2022 - 2024

Qualifications

Admissions

Admitted as solicitor, NSW, 2010

Admitted as solicitor, HKSAR, 2018

Academic

Bachelor, Law, University of New South Wales, 2009

Bachelor, Commerce, University of New South Wales, 2009

Languages

English, Mandarin
Disclaimer
A&O Shearman was formed on May 1, 2024 by the combination of Shearman & Sterling LLP and Allen & Overy LLP and their respective affiliates (the legacy firms). Any matters referred to above may include matters undertaken by one or more of the legacy firms rather than A&O Shearman.