Best Equity Capital Markets Lawyers in Malta

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Mifsud & Mifsud Advocates
Valletta, Malta

Founded in 2007
8 people in their team
Maltese
English
Mifsud & Mifsud Advocates is a business law firm, which has competencies in civil and commercial litigation, IP law, property law, immigration law, family law and shipping and maritime law. We also offer corporate services services for our corporate clients. The Firm is also part owner of a...
Pharmaconsulta Ltd.
Swieqi, Malta

Founded in 2009
English
Pharmaconsulta Ltd., established in 2009 by Mr. Andrew Corrieri, is a Malta-based independent consultancy firm specializing in pharmaceutical regulatory affairs for both EU and international markets. The firm offers a comprehensive suite of services, including consultancy, contract manufacturing,...

Founded in 1973
English
Established in 1973 by Dr. Angelo Vella, Vella & Vella Notaries Public has built a reputation for providing comprehensive notarial services. Now led by his daughters-Nicolette Vella, Roberta Farrugia, and Adriana Vella-the firm specializes in property transactions, including deeds of sale and...
GS Advocates
Sliema, Malta

English
GS Advocates is a boutique law firm in Malta, specializing in Maritime and Transport Law. The firm offers comprehensive services including ship and yacht registrations, ship finance, and maritime litigation. Their clientele encompasses vessel and cargo owners, port service providers, shipyards,...
Chetcuti Cauchi Advocates
Valletta, Malta

Founded in 2002
200 people in their team
Maltese
English
Chetcuti Cauchi is a professional services group providing legal, immigration, tax, and fiduciary services to businesses and private clients worldwide. With roots in Malta’s emergence as a prominent offshore financial centre, Chetcuti Cauchi started in the 1990s and has since established a solid...
Lawyers in Malta
Valletta, Malta

English
Fenech & Fenech Advocates, established in 1891, is one of Malta's most distinguished law firms, offering comprehensive legal services across various sectors. The firm's expertise encompasses shipping and maritime law, international trade, tax, financial services, and technology, media, and...

Founded in 2009
English
James Grech & Associates - Notaries Public, located in Birkirkara, Malta, offers a comprehensive range of notarial services, including property transactions, wills, successions, and notarization of documents. The firm is led by Dr. James Grech, who holds a Doctor of Laws degree from the University...
VB Advocates
Valletta, Malta

Founded in 2023
English
VB Advocates, located in Valletta, Malta, offers a comprehensive range of legal services, including alternative dispute resolution, capital markets, competition law, corporate governance, banking and finance, franchising and distribution, intellectual property, labour, employment and immigration,...

Founded in 2012
English
Fairwinds Management Limited is a renowned business management consultancy based in Malta, offering expert services in company formation and corporate solutions. With extensive experience in the industry, the firm assists clients in setting up companies in Malta, tailoring each solution to meet the...
sammut.legal
Mosta, Malta

Founded in 2018
English
sammut.legal is a Malta-based law firm specializing in legal services tailored for the digital economy. The firm offers expertise in areas such as technology, fintech, gaming, regulatory compliance, data protection, intellectual property, and blockchain and distributed ledger technology (DLT). This...
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About Equity Capital Markets Law in Malta

Equity Capital Markets (ECM) law in Malta covers the legal and regulatory framework governing the raising of capital by companies through the issuance of shares and other equity securities to investors. Malta is an established financial services hub within the European Union, hosting a growing capital markets sector. Its legal system, based on both civil law and common law traditions, provides a robust and flexible environment for equity offerings, initial public offerings (IPOs), rights issues, secondary offerings, and private placements. The Malta Stock Exchange (MSE) plays a central role in facilitating listings and trading of equity securities, supported by regulators such as the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA).

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Engaging a lawyer who specializes in equity capital markets can be essential for several reasons. Legal professionals can navigate the complex process of complying with both local and EU regulations during an IPO or share offering. They can assist with drafting and reviewing legal documentation such as prospectuses and shareholder agreements, ensuring all disclosures are accurate and complete. Lawyers also help negotiate terms with underwriters, advise on corporate structure, and handle regulatory filings with the MFSA and MSE. Legal advice is critical if you are considering listing your company, conducting a rights issue, structuring an investment, or responding to regulatory inquiries. Professional guidance minimizes legal risks and ensures your transaction is completed efficiently and lawfully.

Local Laws Overview

The regulation of equity capital markets in Malta is governed primarily by the Companies Act and the Financial Markets Act. The prospectus regime aligns with European Union directives, including the EU Prospectus Regulation, which dictates how and when a prospectus must be published for share offerings. The MFSA acts as the primary regulatory authority overseeing licensing, supervision, and enforcement of compliance for issuers and intermediaries. The MSE, as the country's official exchange, enforces listing rules and disclosure requirements for companies offering shares to the public. Maltese law also has specific requirements for ongoing reporting, corporate governance, insider trading, and market abuse. Foreign investors and issuers benefit from Malta’s competitive tax environment and access to EU passporting rights, allowing wider market reach within the EU.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an IPO in the context of Malta's Equity Capital Markets?

An IPO, or initial public offering, is when a Maltese company offers shares to the public for the first time and seeks to list those shares on the Malta Stock Exchange.

Who regulates equity offerings in Malta?

The Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) is the primary regulator and oversees the approval of prospectuses and compliance with financial market laws and regulations.

Do all public offerings require a prospectus?

Most public offerings do require a prospectus, unless an exemption applies. The requirements follow the EU Prospectus Regulation, and some small offerings or private placements may not need a prospectus.

What is the role of the Malta Stock Exchange?

The Malta Stock Exchange administers the listing and ongoing regulatory requirements for companies whose shares are traded on the exchange, ensuring market transparency and investor protection.

Can a foreign company list shares on the Malta Stock Exchange?

Yes, foreign companies can list on the MSE, provided they meet the Maltese and EU regulatory requirements. Cross-listings are possible and common within the EU framework.

What are the disclosure obligations after listing?

Issuers must comply with ongoing disclosure requirements, including periodic financial reporting, major shareholding notifications, and other material event disclosures as set out by Maltese law and the MSE rules.

Is legal due diligence necessary for equity offerings?

Yes, thorough legal due diligence is essential for identifying potential risks, ensuring accurate disclosures, and satisfying regulatory requirements.

Are there corporate governance requirements for listed companies?

Listed companies in Malta must comply with the MSE’s Corporate Governance Code and certain statutory requirements under the Companies Act, promoting transparency and protecting minority shareholders.

Are there any restrictions on who can invest in Maltese equities?

Generally, both local and international investors can invest, although certain offerings may be limited to qualified investors or subject to anti-money laundering and know-your-customer checks.

What are the usual steps to go public in Malta?

Typical steps include company and market readiness assessment, legal due diligence, preparation of a prospectus, regulatory approval, marketing the offer, listing on the MSE, and compliance with ongoing obligations.

Additional Resources

- Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) for regulatory guidance and documentation - Malta Stock Exchange (MSE) for listing requirements and investor information - Registry of Companies for incorporation and statutory filings - Chamber of Commerce for business networking and guidance - FinanceMalta for industry updates and support services

Next Steps

If you are considering issuing shares, listing your company on the Malta Stock Exchange, or investing in Maltese equity markets, it is highly advisable to consult a legal expert with specialized knowledge in equity capital markets. Start by gathering your business documents and investment objectives. Research and select a reputable law firm or lawyer who is experienced in ECM matters. Schedule an initial consultation to outline your goals and understand the legal requirements specific to your situation. Your lawyer can then guide you through each step of the process, help prepare necessary paperwork, and ensure compliance with all local and EU legal and regulatory frameworks. Prompt legal advice will help you make informed decisions and reduce risks associated with equity transactions in Malta.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Malta through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Equity Capital Markets, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Malta - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.