Incorporated in 2016, BlackOak is a dedicated distress and special situations firm active in all fields of the corporate and insolvency process. Peers consistently nod to its expertise and unique offering in the market, and the firm climbs into the first tier this year for R&I. BlackOak is often instructed in various cross-border restructurings by, among others, the debtor, creditors and white knight investors. Its size and structure allow it greater independence compared to larger law firms, and keeps the firm nimble for non-domestic mandates. Under the leadership of Ashok Kumar and Darius Tay, the firm handles both contentious and non-contentious aspects of the practice. It is also particularly active in bond restructurings. The team has been growing its cross-border capabilities and building up its global networks, particularly in southeast Asia.
Client feedback
“Independent, extremely experienced, nimble and commercial.” – Restructuring and insolvency
“Knowledgeable and they have commercial sense, network and depth of experience in restructuring situations. They know how to manage various parties in restructuring situations. Also, they are very cost-effective.” – Restructuring and insolvency
“Knowledgeable, responsible and responsive team with quick turnaround times.” – Restructuring and insolvency
“We are happy with BlackOak, where Ashok and Darius are strategic, commercial, innovative, attentive and innovative. They are our go-to debtor lawyers.” – Restructuring and insolvency
“Efficient, creative and hard-working.” – Restructuring and insolvency
“Excellent at delivering both substantive and practical legal advice, and recommendations as to strategy.” – Restructuring and insolvency
Ashok Kumar
“Extremely experienced, strong client relationship management, and excellent commercial and industry knowledge, responsiveness and technical expertise.”
“He’s got great people skills.”
“We appreciate his commercial sense, network and legal knowledge.”
Darius Tay
“Knowledgeable, personable and very responsive. Truly a pleasure working with Darius, undoubtedly the future of BlackOak.”
“Smart, creative in problem-solving, and incredibly hard-working.”
“Darius listens well and is someone who adds value in strategy discussions. He also leads his team to genuinely provide support to international counsel on complex cross-border transactions.”
Work highlights
Advised FTX on its Chapter 11 proceedings in connection with Singapore.
Acting for the informal steering committee, comprising SC Lowry, PT Bank China Construction Bank, Shinhan Bank, PT Bank KEB Hana Indonesia and PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia, in relation to the restructuring of PT Pan Brothers.
Representing Eqonex on its restructuring in connection with Singapore.
Key clients
Century Sunshine Group Holdings, Nam Cheong, SBGK, Yang Kee Logistics.
