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Simon Reid-Kay, founder of Simon Reid-Kay & Associates (SRKA), was recently interviewed by CorpHub about his role in providing real estate legal services in Hong Kong. As one of the city’s leading legal professionals in the sector, Simon and his team have built a reputation for delivering specialized, high-quality legal counsel in all areas of property law.

The Growing Demand for Real Estate Legal Services in Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s real estate market is dynamic and ever-evolving. From the sale of individual car park spaces to multi-billion-dollar commercial developments, real estate transactions involve complex legal frameworks, regulatory approvals, and intricate financial structures. Whether it’s a land exchange, sale and leaseback, or a major infrastructure project, having an experienced legal team is crucial to ensuring compliance and securing successful deals.

Since establishing Simon Reid-Kay & Associates in 2012, Simon and his team have provided real estate legal services across property acquisitions, sales, leasing, financing, and development. Beyond standard transactions, the firm also advises developers, investors, and lenders on the legal aspects of urban planning, large-scale construction, and infrastructure projects.

A Specialized Approach to Real Estate Legal Services

Unlike traditional law firms that cover multiple practice areas, SRKA is a boutique firm specializing solely in real estate legal services. This vertical approach ensures that clients receive in-depth industry expertise and tailored legal strategies suited to their specific needs. SRKA’s advisory services extend to:

• Real estate aspects of IPOs, REITs, and funds
• Securitization and investment structuring
• Portfolio management for multinational corporations and investment banks
• Commercial property transactions, including sale and leaseback agreements
• Land exchanges, development agreements, and infrastructure projects

By focusing exclusively on real estate legal services, SRKA has earned a trusted reputation among Hong Kong’s legal and business communities. Many international law firms, lacking in-house property law expertise, refer clients to SRKA, confident in the firm’s ability to navigate the complexities of Hong Kong’s property sector.

An Experienced Team with a Global Perspective

SRKA’s leadership team brings a wealth of international legal experience to its operations. Many of the firm’s senior members previously worked at top-tier international law firms, bringing global best practices and a client-focused approach to SRKA.

“When we first established, we had only seven colleagues,” Simon shared. “Now, almost a decade later, we have grown into a 25-person team. Although we are not as large as some of the multinational law firms, our focused approach and deep industry knowledge have allowed us to build long-term relationships with clients and partners.”

The firm’s commitment to excellence has earned SRKA the respect of local and international legal professionals, with many firms choosing to collaborate or refer cases to the team. As Simon notes, “SRKA is perhaps the only law firm in Hong Kong that specializes in real estate legal services in such a comprehensive manner.”

Looking Ahead: The Future of Real Estate Legal Services in Hong Kong

With Hong Kong’s real estate market continuing to evolve, Simon remains optimistic about the future of property law and development in the city. Emerging trends such as:

• The rise of data centers and smart buildings
• Increased focus on sustainable and green developments
• Government initiatives to improve public housing and infrastructure

…all signal a growing demand for specialized real estate legal services. As the market adapts to new technologies, sustainability initiatives, and regulatory changes, SRKA is well-positioned to provide the legal expertise needed to navigate these transformations.

For over a decade, SRKA has been the trusted partner for businesses, investors, and institutions seeking real estate legal services in Hong Kong. With a solid foundation, a forward-thinking approach, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Simon Reid-Kay & Associates will continue to serve as a leader in real estate law for years to come.

Watch the Video of the interview here:

The Recognition and Treatment of Relationships under Hong Kong Law

Simon Reid-Kay & Associates (SRKA) is honored to have contributed to the Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) report titled “The Recognition and Treatment of Relationships under Hong Kong Law.” This important research, prepared by Allen & Overy, examines 21 areas of Hong Kong law, highlighting the legal implications of relationship recognition and its impact on daily life.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of how Hong Kong’s legal framework treats different types of relationships, particularly the differential treatment faced by couples in alternative relationships due to the lack of legal recognition. By addressing these disparities, the study aims to foster informed discussions about equal rights and legal protections for all individuals, regardless of their relationship status.

At SRKA, we are privileged to have played a role in this project, contributing to the broader conversation on fairness, inclusivity, and legal reform in Hong Kong. Ensuring that all individuals receive equal protection under the law is crucial for a progressive and inclusive society. This report is a significant step toward understanding the legal gaps that exist and advocating for change where needed.

We commend Allen & Overy for their in-depth research and the Equal Opportunities Commission for their leadership in addressing this vital issue. We look forward to seeing how this report will help shape future legal policies and encourage further dialogue on relationship recognition in Hong Kong.

Be sure to find out more about SRKA by visiting our website.

Simon Reid-Kay & Associates (SRKA) was once again delighted to take part in the annual Goodman Interlink Magic Mile Charity Ramp Run, an event that continues to bring together businesses, families, and individuals for a great cause. Organized by Goodman and supported by many of our friends and partners, the event raises significant funds for various charitable organizations in Hong Kong.

Over the years, the Goodman Interlink Magic Mile Run has become a highly anticipated challenge, with participants tackling the one-mile uphill course to the top of Goodman Interlink, a major logistics facility in Tsing Yi. The event not only tests endurance but also fosters a strong sense of camaraderie among participants, all united by the goal of giving back to the community.

As in previous years, SRKA entered a four-person team to officially compete in the main event. Our wider team, including family and friends, also took on the challenge, making their way to the summit of the mile-long ramp. It was an incredible experience, filled with determination, teamwork, and plenty of encouragement along the way.

Most importantly, we are proud to have contributed to the event’s success, as millions of dollars were raised for various charities. The funds support initiatives that make a tangible difference in people’s lives, helping those in need and strengthening community programs.

SRKA extends its gratitude to Goodman and all those involved in organizing such a meaningful event. We look forward to participating again next year, continuing to support this fantastic initiative and pushing ourselves to conquer the ramp once more!

For the fifth consecutive year, Simon Reid-Kay & Associates (SRKA) was proud to support the RB-SRKA Tin Shui Wai Pandas in competing at the Hong Kong Corporate Sevens. The event continues to be a highlight in Hong Kong’s corporate rugby calendar, bringing together teams from leading firms and organizations to compete in a friendly yet competitive environment while raising money for a worthy cause.

In 2018, the Pandas entered two teams, showcasing their dedication, skill, and sportsmanship. We are thrilled to share that our Mixed Pool Team won the Plate, demonstrating the depth of talent and teamwork that has become synonymous with the club. The Tin Shui Wai Pandas, originally founded in 2011 through the Operation Breakthrough program, have grown into a formidable force in Hong Kong rugby, and we are proud to continue supporting their journey.

Beyond the competition, the 2018 Hong Kong Corporate Sevens was also a major success in fundraising for charity. We were delighted to hear that the event raised over HK$566,000 for the Hong Kong Rugby Union Community Foundation (HKRUCF) Tackling English Programme. This initiative plays a crucial role in helping local children develop English language skills through rugby, creating opportunities for education and personal growth.

Looking ahead, the Hong Kong Corporate Sevens 2019 is set to take place on Sunday, 8th December 2019, at the Indian Recreation Club, So Kon Po. SRKA hopes to be there once again with the RB-SRKA Pandas, competing and supporting another fantastic event.

We invite everyone to join us, cheer on the teams, and contribute to this great cause. See you on the field!

Simon Reid-Kay & Associates (SRKA) is honored to have played a pivotal role in the landmark HK$40 billion acquisition of “The Center,” an iconic commercial property in Hong Kong. This transaction, completed in 2018, is recognized as the world’s most valuable single-building deal to date. Our firm provided comprehensive legal counsel on the property’s debt financing aspects, ensuring a seamless and successful transaction.

The Center, located at 99 Queen’s Road Central, stands as the fifth tallest skyscraper in Hong Kong.

73 stories and a height of 346 meters, its distinctive steel structure and vibrant nighttime illumination make it a prominent feature of Hong Kong’s skyline. 

The acquisition was led by a consortium of investors, including notable figures such as Hui Wing Mau. The consortium employed innovative financial strategies, including bond issuances, to facilitate the purchase. 

This monumental deal was honored with the “Debt Market Deal of the Year” award at the 2018 Asian Legal Business (ALB) Hong Kong Law Awards. The ALB Awards celebrate legal excellence and the outstanding achievements of law firms and in-house counsel in Hong Kong. 

SRKA’s involvement in this transaction underscores our commitment to delivering exceptional legal services in complex, high-value deals. Our expertise in property law and debt financing was instrumental in navigating the intricacies of this record-breaking acquisition.

We extend our gratitude to all parties involved for their collaboration and trust. This achievement not only highlights SRKA’s capabilities but also reinforces Hong Kong’s position as a leading global financial hub.

For more information on SRKA’s services and other notable transactions, please visit our website.

NWMHK is a leading ministry for cancer patients and also provides ministry for asylum seekers and refugees. They go weekly to cancer centres in local communities around Hong Kong while asylum seekers and refugees attend their ministry once a week.

Simon Reid-Kay & Associates supports New Wine Ministries by attending their annual charity ball and sponsoring their event programme.

The Tin Shui Wai Pandas are a vibrant and ambitious Hong Kong rugby team, developed to foster a sense of belonging and community through participation in team sports. Since their founding, they have been dedicated to providing opportunities for players of all backgrounds to engage in competitive rugby, develop key life skills, and strengthen connections within their local community.

The team was established in 2011 with a core group of players from Operation Breakthrough, a social initiative launched by the Hong Kong Police. This program uses sports to help young people from underprivileged backgrounds develop discipline, teamwork, and confidence. Based in Tin Shui Wai, an area in the New Territories often described as a “city of sadness” due to its history of social challenges, the Pandas have played a key role in transforming lives through the power of rugby.

Their inaugural season was nothing short of spectacular—winning every single game they played. This early success propelled the club into higher divisions, where the level of competition increased significantly. Despite facing tougher opponents, the Pandas continued to prove their resilience, determination, and passion for the sport.

Since those early days, the club has grown substantially. It now boasts senior men’s and women’s teams, as well as a rapidly expanding youth section catering to boys and girls aged 12 to 18. The youth development program has been particularly impactful, offering young athletes not only a place to train and compete but also mentorship and a sense of community.

At Simon Reid-Kay & Associates, we are incredibly proud to be a main co-sponsor of the Tin Shui Wai Pandas. Supporting this club means investing in a future where sports can break down barriers, build character, and bring people together. We look forward to seeing the Pandas continue their journey, both on and off the field.

The Hong Kong Corporate Sevens is one of the most exciting annual rugby events in the city, bringing together corporate teams from leading companies such as HSBC, Swire, Savills, JLL, and Colliers. This year’s tournament, held on Sunday, 4 December 2016, saw a major shift in format, introducing Tag Rugby alongside the traditional men’s contact rugby games.

Simon Reid-Kay & Associates and co-sponsor Richards Basmajian were proud to support the Tin Shui Wai Pandas (TSWRFC) as they took part in the competition. The Pandas entered both a men’s team and a mixed team, the latter requiring a minimum of three women on the field at all times. In an outstanding performance, the Pandas’ mixed team won the Plate, proving their strength and versatility in this new format.

TSW Pandas: A Story of Growth and Success

Founded in 2011, the Tin Shui Wai Pandas Rugby Football Club (TSWRFC) has its roots in Operation Breakthrough, an initiative that uses sports to help at-risk youth develop teamwork, discipline, and leadership skills. Many of the club’s players have gone on to represent Hong Kong U20s, the Hong Kong Development Level, and the Hong Kong A squad.

The Pandas made an immediate impact in their inaugural season, with their first team going undefeated and winning the Championship Division. Their second team also claimed silverware at the National League level, with both teams earning promotion.

By the 2013/14 season, the Pandas expanded from two teams to four, including a men’s and women’s development team. The women’s team immediately made history by winning the 10’s B League Championship in their first season.

TSWRFC’s Competitive Success

The Pandas’ first two teams currently compete in Premiership A and Community League 3. The club has also invested in youth development, launching a Colts section in 2015 with U19, U16, and U14 boys and girls teams. Impressively, these young squads won silverware in their first season.

The 2015 season was a milestone year for the Pandas, with wins in:

• Women’s Xs Development League
• Men’s NL 5 Division
• Men’s Third XV Grand Championship Final (undefeated season)

Beyond their success on the field, the Pandas also earned recognition for their sportsmanship, winning the RFU ‘Trophy 21’ in 2015/16—awarded to the fairest and cleanest team in Hong Kong.

A Bright Future Ahead

With continued support from Simon Reid-Kay & Associates and Richards Basmajian, the Tin Shui Wai Pandas are set to grow even further, competing at higher levels while continuing to make a positive impact in their community. Whether through corporate competitions like the Hong Kong Corporate Sevens or grassroots youth programs, TSWRFC remains a shining example of how rugby can inspire, unite, and transform lives.