Pros
recognised in the market concentrating in corporate finance
Kontras
1. Downsizing: The departure of Vivian has led to a downsizing of the firm's headcount.
2. Declining Practice Areas: Without the DCM platform, the firm's core practice areas seem to be declining. ECM work is very weak. No IPO or sizeable M and A. Lawyers who leave the firm will work in DCM in larger firms but not in ECM area.
3. Hiring and Retention Issues:The managing partner is struggling to hire new talent, likely due to the lack of substantive client work available. This is resulting in a high turnover rate, as trainees leave the firm shortly after completing their training, citing a lack of deal flow and limited career development opportunities. There is no medical benefit, no bonus and without any salary rise.
4. In response to these issues, the firm appears to be attempting to diversify its practice into more general areas. However, the quality of the deals the firm is working on does not seem to be comparable to that of its competitors in the market.
5. **Management Style Concerns**: The firm is like a "one man bank", with a lack of cohesive team support.