Mergers & Acquisitions

Mergers and Acquisitions of Companies, also known by its acronym “M&A” (acronym for “Mergers and Acquisitions”) is a process that requires the assistance of lawyers and accountants.

At LEGALIA PANAMA we have the necessary experience to provide you with advice throughout the process, always seeking to protect your interests and make the transaction as safe and simple as possible.

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"Driving Growth, Protecting Interests"

What are Mergers and Acquisitions?

Mergers and acquisitions are corporate transactions that allow companies to expand, diversify their operations, or consolidate in the market.

This type of operation may involve the purchase of assets, shareholdings or the integration of two or more companies into a single entity. These processes require in-depth legal and financial knowledge, which is critical to ensuring a successful transition.

M&A Process

Preliminary Analysis:

We assess opportunities and challenges to identify the feasibility of the transaction and establish an initial strategy that maximizes the benefits for our clients.

Due Diligence:

We conduct a thorough investigation to identify potential financial, legal, and operational risks, ensuring that the transaction is robust and transparent.

Structuring of the Transaction:

We design the optimal structure for the operation, considering factors such as tax optimization, financial needs, and applicable regulations.

Closing and Post-Closing:

We accompany our clients during the closing of the transaction and provide ongoing advice to facilitate subsequent integration and resolve any issues that arise.

Services We Provide

These services cover the entire spectrum of mergers and acquisitions, offering our clients comprehensive support during every phase of the process.

We provide a thorough analysis of the legal and tax implications of the transaction, ensuring that every aspect complies with current regulations and protects the interests of our clients. We evaluate the applicable legal framework, identify possible risks, and offer recommendations to mitigate any eventuality.

We carry out a complete due diligence study on the company, its partners and directors. This process includes a detailed investigation into the financial, legal, and operational background of the target company. We have specialized tools to ensure that the information collected is accurate and up-to-date, allowing our clients to make well-informed decisions.

We assist in the drafting or review of key documents for the transaction, such as:

  • Intent agreements: They define the preliminary terms of the negotiation and establish a framework for future discussions.
  • Confidentiality agreements: They protect sensitive information that is shared between parties during negotiations.
  • Share purchase agreements: They specify the conditions under which the company’s shares are transferred.
  • Asset purchase agreements: They detail the transfer of assets from one company to another, including tangible and intangible goods.

Each of these documents is critical to ensuring that the terms of the transaction are clear, precise and legally binding, minimizing the risk of future conflicts.

Legal Grounds

The Commercial Code of Panama regulates commercial and business activities, including the formation, merger, acquisition, dissolution and liquidation of companies. It provides a general legal framework on the responsibilities and obligations of the parties involved in a merger or acquisition.

  • Relevant articles: Article 64 of the Commercial Code mentions the ways in which companies can merge or acquire others, detailing how the process of transferring assets and liabilities must be carried out.

This law regulates the incorporation and operation of corporations in Panama. It is particularly relevant in M&A transactions because it defines the procedure for the sale or transfer of shares and assets, as well as the rights of shareholders during merger processes.

  • Key articles:
    • Article 82 of Law 32 establishes that mergers of companies must be approved by a majority of shareholders at a duly convened meeting.
    • Article 85 outlines the rights of dissenting shareholders, including the option to sell their shares to the company if they do not agree to the merger or acquisition.

This law is of great importance in M&A transactions, as it establishes the regulations to prevent monopolistic practices and ensure fair competition in the Panamanian market. Any M&A operation that may affect free competition must be reviewed by the Consumer Protection and Competition Authority (ACODECO).

  • Chapter II (Monopolistic Practices): This section regulates and prohibits economic concentrations that may lead to the creation of monopolies or anti-competitive practices.

In mergers and acquisitions, it is vital to comply with tax transparency and tax compliance regulations. Law 52 requires adequate disclosure of the beneficial owners of the companies involved, which is a key aspect in the due diligence process.

This law regulates the merger and acquisition processes of foreign companies that have branches or subsidiaries in Panama. Any foreign entity seeking to merge with a Panamanian company must follow the procedures established in this law for the correct transfer of assets and liabilities.

For companies operating under the Multinational Company Headquarters (SEM) regime in Panama, any merger or acquisition must respect the special taxation and operation conditions established in this law. M&A transactions under this regime require prior approval from the Ministry of Commerce and Industries (MICI).

Why choose Legalia Panama?

We have a team of highly trained M&A experts, who offer a personalized approach, ensuring strategic legal solutions tailored to each client’s needs.

We stand out for our deep multi-sector experience, a firm commitment to regulatory compliance and risk mitigation, and comprehensive accompaniment from the initial evaluation to the closing of the transaction, ensuring the protection of our clients’ interests at all times.

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