Locations
Deal numbers were buoyed by a steady stream of private financings and high-value M&A transactions.
European law firm Fieldfisher's international Mining and Metals team advised on matters valued in excess of US$2.1 billion in 2023 – an impressive figure in what was another challenging year for the global mining industry.
High costs of capital and labour, operational difficulties in some jurisdictions and volatility in metal markets tested the ability of early-stage miners to fundraise and put pressure on revenue streams for established metals producers, processors and traders.
Despite the tough economic climate, the Fieldfisher Mining and Metals team acted on stand-out deals last year, including SigmaRoc's acquisition of CRH; a settlement in the long-running Atalaya Mining-Astor Management dispute; and a number of high-value commercial crime investigations and arbitrations.
Fundraising for cleantech and energy transition minerals and metals remained a bright spot for deal activity, while financial, regulatory and political flux led to an increase in contentious mandates for our mining disputes specialists.
Issues such as ESG, including compliance challenges, supply chain due diligence and climate litigation, along with the need to attract and retain mining talent were notable features of the mining sector in 2023.
The Fieldfisher Mining and Metals team is Co-Headed by Corporate Partner Melanie Talbot and Banking Partner Oliver Abel Smith, and comprises an international group of more than 25 lawyers with mining expertise, advising in excess of 60 clients globally.
For further details, download a copy of the Mining and Metals team's 2023 highlights.